Articles:
Unique Ukraine
The Ukraine is a fascinating country with many unique traditions and practices that lend insight into the land and its people. Even the state flag, an aspect of Ukrainian national identity, is believed by many to represent the spirit of Ukrainian freedom with the blue and yellow representing the open sky over the expansive golden, wheat fields. Although the flag was first adopted officially in 1917, under Soviet rule, it was prohibited. However, the design and spirit never died, and in 1991, when the Ukraine gained independence, the flag was once again displayed proudly and without fear of retribution.
In the Ukraine, traditional marriage ceremonies can sometimes last for days. Weddings are lively affairs with feasting, festivities and family. Before a wedding, one tradition is the groom and his friends’ visit to the bride’s home. This visit symbolizes the groom desire to bargain with the bride’s family to release her. After the wedding ceremony, the bride carries a basket of candy to toss to the children in the crowd. Another tradition, which takes place at the reception, involves the bride dancing with the unmarried women after placing a veil on their heads meant to represent the women’s desire to get married soon.
In addition to interesting customs, there are also practices that contribute to country’s fascinating culture. Beekeeping, for example, is an age-old practice of the Ukrainian people. The first functional frame used for commercial beekeeping and honey production was created by Petro Prokopovych. As the fourth leading producer of the world’s honey supply, apiculture is a long-established convention. There have even been postage stamps portraying the importance of beekeeping practices in the Ukraine, and both commercially and recreationally, beekeeping is widely respected.
Another unique aspect of the Ukraine is its architecture. In particular, wooden churches are symbols of craftsmanship, religious devotion and the undying will of a people. In as far back as the 10th century, wooden churches were built in the shape of ships with distinctive features, such as domes and spires topped with crosses. Although aesthetically appealing, these designs embodied much symbolism. The domed roof and spires represented the masts and sails of ships. With a center area and two aisles, the churches’ three parts represent the Holy Trinity. During the rule of the Russian Empire, these churches were banned from being built. However, with the passing of time and new government reforms, the churches were allowed further construction. Recently, there have ongoing efforts to restore over 1,800 wooden churches throughout the country. These restoration efforts point to the cultural importance of these structures to the Ukrainian people. The unique traditions and practices of the Ukraine provide insight into a proud people and what they value most in life.
I Love Ukraine
The Ukrainian language has a long and fascinating history. In spite of attempts to stop or limit its use, as well as fierce competition from the Russian language, Ukranian still prospers in the Ukraine, particularly in the western regions. As its use is encouraged more and more under the present government, even more Ukrainian people speak the language as their native tongue of choice. The shift in language is especially notable in Kiev, where rural dwellers have moved into the city, bringing their language with them. Schools in the Ukraine have started to provide more education about the native Ukraine language.
Ukrainian Traditional Folklore
Ukrainian folklore shares many beliefs and practices with the wider Slavic population in Eastern Europe. However, Ukraine has had unique historical experiences that have given it its own distinct traditions as well.
