Ancient Kyiv

Ancient Kyiv: The Cradle of Eastern Slavic Civilization Kyiv, the vibrant capital of modern Ukraine, is a city steeped in history, its roots stretching back over a millennium. Known as Ancient Kyiv during its formative years, it was the heart of Kyivan Rus’, a powerful medieval state that shaped the cultural, political, and religious identity of Eastern Europe. From its legendary founding to its role as a thriving trade hub, Ancient Kyiv is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of its people. Exploring its past reveals a city that was not only a cradle of Slavic civilization but also a bridge between East and West. The origins of Kyiv are shrouded in legend. According to the Primary Chronicle , a 12th-century text, the city was founded in the 5th century by three brothers—Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv—and their sister Lybid. Kyi, the eldest, gave his name to the city, establishing it on the banks of the Dnipro River. While the tale is likely apocryphal, archaeologica...