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Kyiv is one of the oldest cities of Eastern Europe with rich and dramatic history. The city`s role in the development of East Slavyc civilization is expressively characterized by its widely used second name – "The mother of all Slavyc cities". In Kyiv`s history there were periods of great prominence and deep depressions, all of them paid a great influence upon architecture and culture of the city. According to the legend, Kyiv was founded in the 5th century by a founder-family consisting of a Slavyc tribe leader Kyi, his brothers Schek, Khoriv and sister Lybid. The name of the Ukrainian capital is translated as "belonging to Kyiv". The golden age of Kyiv falls on the 11th-12th centuries, when Kyivan Rus was a powerful state, the center of trading routes between the Baltic and the Mediterranean. In 1240 the powerful city was fully destroyed by the Mongol invasion and lost its influence. For centuries Kiyv`s territory was controlled by the powerful neighbors - the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Poland and Russia. From 1934 onwards the city was the capital of Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. During World War II the city suffered significant damage but quickly recovered in the post-war years. In 1991 Kyiv became the capital of independent Ukraine. Nowadays Kyiv is the largest cultural, scientific and industrial center, the place of religious pilgrimage. Due to its unique landscapes, numerous historical sights and hospitality of residents the city is a Must See Destination for tourists. |
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