Some cities in Ukraine were founded at a time when most of the continent was inhabited by nomadic tribes. And they saw the history of Ukraine's formation with their own eyes. Find out more about the oldest cities in Ukraine that are over 1000 years old today

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From the sources of the Dnipro River to the Black Sea, from the Galician capital to ancient Cossack fortresses, unique places and entire cities can be found in every corner of Ukraine, preserving the memory of Ukrainian history and culture for thousands of years.

Earlier, we told you that modern Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, located in the Odesa region, is one of the oldest cities in the world and the oldest in Ukraine. The history of this city goes back more than 2,500 years. But this is not the only Ukrainian city with a thousand-year history.

Here are the oldest cities in Ukraine that were founded more than 1,000 years ago.

Kyiv

Of course, the Ukrainian capital is on this list, because according to historians, the date of Kyiv's foundation falls between the second half of the fifth century and the first half of the sixth. The official date is 482 A.D. That is, today the capital of Ukraine is more than 1,541 years old.

Monument to the founders of Kyiv, Kyi, Shchek, Khoriv, and their sister Lybid

At the same time, according to ancient manuscripts stored in the Armenian Matenadaran repository, Kyiv as a settlement is mentioned in documents that are more than 2,500 years old. 

Korosten

The Slavic city of Korosten is known for its rich and dramatic history of destruction. After all, this is the city mentioned in the Tale of Bygone Years by Nestor the Chronicler. Back then, it was called Iskorosten, and it was its inhabitants (drevlyans) who rebelled against Prince Ihor.

Today, the history of this city goes back more than 1300 years.

Kilia

This is another ancient city in the Odesa region that was founded by the Greeks, at that time it was called Achillia. The exact date of foundation of Kiliya is unknown; various sources indicate the period from the VII to the II centuries BC. 

At the same time, some historians claim that in the days of Kyivan Rus, Prince Sviatoslav even dreamed of moving the capital here. However, his death in a battle with the Polovtsians prevented the realization of this plan.

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Khotyn

It is believed that the city was founded in 1002. And during its existence, it has seen many conquerors, as well as the rise and fall of empires, as it has repeatedly passed into the hands of different rulers. Today, a large number of unique monuments are preserved here. The most famous of them is the Khotyn Fortress, which is included in the list of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine.

Borysfen (modern Berezan Island)

Today, almost no one lives on the island of Berezan, located in the heart of the Dnipro River. However, in the VII century BC, this island was densely populated. The first civilization on Borysfen was established by the Greeks. Today, the island is part of the Sylvia National Reserve.

Uzhhorod

Today, this city is over 1100 years old, and for most of its history it belonged to the Hungarians. The use of the name we are familiar with began around the middle of the nineteenth century. Prior to that, the city was known as Ungvar, which came from the name of the Ung River, on the banks of which it is located.

To this list can be added Chernihiv, Slavske, Pereiaslav-Khmelnytskyi, Vyshhorod, Romny, Poltava, Zhytomyr, Terebovlia, as well as many cities currently occupied by russia, such as Feodosia and Kerch. In fact, these are just a few of the Ukrainian cities with a history of more than 1000 years that are worth seeing at least once in your life.

So, you want to learn more about the history and culture of Ukraine, as well as see the incredible Ukrainian landscapes and sights with your own eyes, we suggest you do not hesitate to book a trip with Visit Ukraine for the dates convenient for you. Our portal offers more than 800 different tours to suit every taste and budget. Together with our professional guides, you can see the whole of Ukraine.

Follow the link and choose your dream trip from the largest online tour database in Ukraine. And we will take care of your comfort and safety!

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Visit Ukraine hotline.

We remind you! Spring is a time when you want to make new discoveries. At the same time, despite the difficulties of today, it is important to find time for relaxation. In particular, Zakarpattia is a well-known place in Ukraine for relaxation and recreation. Read more about the great places to visit this spring in our previous article.

Main photo: Freepik