On July 15, Ukraine celebrates a significant date — Ukrainian Statehood Day. To mark this occasion, the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory has launched an exhibition open to all, highlighting the historical legacy inherited by Ukraine from Rus.
The main idea of the exhibition titled "Heritage of the Nation" is that Ukrainian statehood is not a gift but a rightful inheritance. The exhibition can be found near the Main Post Office on Khreshchatyk Street, 22.
Passersby stop to look at photographs, documents, and artifacts, reflecting on the significant milestones that illustrate the Ukrainian struggle for independence.
During the opening, the UINP team emotionally conveyed the essence of the Ukrainian nation's historical journey.
"The exhibition tells how the medieval heritage of Rus continues to thrive in the visual and symbolic elements of modern Ukraine, from the state coat of arms to the colors of the flag," noted the organizers.
UINP Chairman Oleksandr Alfiorov emphasized the importance of this cultural heritage:
"The profound meanings embedded in this exhibition speak to us through the slogan reflected in its title — 'Heritage of the Nation'. Our legacy is present in our emblems, colors, institutions, traditions, and monumental landmarks."
A prominent historian discussed not only what has been preserved but also what has been lost from the Ukrainian cultural heritage during the full-scale invasion by Russia and in previous centuries. Russia has plundered Ukraine, particularly its history.
He mentioned, for example, the theft of the mosaic of Saint Demetrius from the Golden-Domed St. Michael's Cathedral, which is currently displayed in Moscow.
"The Rus factor is one of the key influences that have shaped us into who we are today, connecting us geographically, spiritually, symbolically, and culturally," pointed out Viktoriya Yaremko, head of the Scientific and Institutional Support Department of National Memory Policy at UINP.
The deep historical roots of the Ukrainian nation are one of the guarantees of our resilience today. Ukrainians are reclaiming what is theirs.
"A nation can only be destroyed when its roots are eradicated. The roots of our Ukrainian nation are the heritage showcased in this exhibition. We cherish our historical memory and safeguard those material values that embody it," emphasized Vyacheslav Korniyenko during the opening.
The military units of the Ukrainian army bear the names of historical figures who fought for our freedom and land. In total, 11 brigades of the army, navy, and National Guard bear the names of historical personalities.
This includes the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after King Daniel, the 7th Tactical Aviation Brigade named after Petro Franko, among others.
But not only names — the Armed Forces of Ukraine have inherited valor, resilience, and military science cultivated over centuries.
This is also reflected in the "Heritage of the Nation" exhibition.
The exhibition will run for three months.
The UINP Chairman thanked all partners for their collaboration in creating the exhibition: the National Preserve Sofia Kyivska, the Manuscript Institute of the National Library of Ukraine named after V.I. Vernadsky, and the National Museum of History of Ukraine.