In the middle of Sophia Square, which used to be the main square of Kyiv, Ukraine, sits the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Monument. Erected in the late 19th century, it is dedicated to a man who led an uprising that led to the creation of a new state in the area. It has survived numerous conflicts and upheavals to become an important symbol for the city, which has created a legacy that has proven to appeal to both residents and tourists for very different reasons.
A National Hero and Founder of Ukraine
Bohdan Khmelnytsky led a rebellion between 1648 and 1654 that resulted in the creation of a new, independent state. These actions have seen Khmelnytsky become generally recognized as a national hero and founder of Ukraine, which first spurred the concept of erecting a monument to him in 1840.
Originally, the monument was supposed to feature numerous figures and elements, but funding issues meant that the statue of Khmelnytsky on his horse was the only piece that ended up being cast. Funding issues weren’t the only problem though, as wars, social unrest and even with finding a suitable pedestal for the piece also caused delays. The monument actually spent eight years in the local police building due to not having this pedestal before finally being installed in 1888.
Today, the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Monument serves as one of the oldest monuments in the city that has endured through two World Wars, countless conflicts and numerous changes to the environment around it. Proof of the Statue’s endurance is evident when looking at the destruction the city dealt with in the aftermath of World War II, and how the city has been literally rebuilt around it.
It serves as a dominating feature of Sophia Square, with numerous pieces of information and history displayed on and around the monument. Visitors can get close to the piece, although it remains elevated and removed from the audience, further establishing the prestige of the monument.
This history and experience is just part of what has allowed it to have such an impact on the culture of the city for both residents and tourists.
A Direct and Indirect Impact on the Culture and Economy
The monument has been included in the State Register of Immovable Monuments of Ukraine since 2001, and the significance it has come to represent for the city can be seen across the city directly and indirectly. The Statue’s appearance on everything from sewer covers to tourists items is a literal representation of that influence, but the indirect impact it has enabled is just as powerful.
Saint Sophia Cathedral has been listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine, and the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Monument’s placement outside of the church was undoubtedly a factor in this placement. Kyiv also features numerous monuments that have been erected over the past hundred years, but all of them reside in the shadow of the monument that sits in what used to be the heart of the city. This placement has defined how the city and been built and rebuilt and continues to guide the steady increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting the country.
The economic impact of this influence is evident when considering the numerous ways there are for both residents and tourists to celebrate, honor and remember the piece. That influence is just part of the legacy it has created for Kyiv though.
One of Kyiv’s Most Recognizable Symbols
Statues like the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Monument have come to represent cities and decorate boulevards, but it’s done something more to and for Kyiv. The piece has become one of Kyiv’s most easily recognizable symbols that is a symbol of pride for residents while also being a draw for tourists. The appeal has a created a legacy for the piece and the city which has proven it can and will continue to endure just about anything.
