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The Historical Legacy of Kyiv
Ukraine, with its rich history and culture, has given Europe not only cultural and scientific achievements but also 158 queens and kings. One of the most vivid symbols of this legacy is the portrait of Queen Anna, created nearly a thousand years ago in the St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. In this cathedral, queens of Europe of Ukrainian origin are depicted: Anna (France), Anastasia (Hungary), Elizabeth (Norway and Denmark), and Agatha (England) – all daughters of the Grand Prince of Kyiv, Yaroslav the Wise.
Anna of Kyiv: Queen of France
Anna Yaroslavna, who became the queen of France, was one of the most educated women of her time. Fluent in four languages, she brought with her a Gospel on which almost all subsequent French kings took their oaths. This Gospel was written and printed in Kyiv, and the blood of Anna flowed through the veins of 18 French kings. Anna made a significant contribution to the cultural exchange between Kyivan Rus and France, becoming a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment.
Anastasia of Kyiv: Queen of Hungary
Anastasia Yaroslavna, queen of Hungary, saved her husband, King Andrew I, from death through the mediation of Kyiv. At that time, Kyiv was the largest and most influential state in Europe. Under her leadership, Hungary experienced a period of stabilization and strengthening of royal power. Her diplomatic and political skills made her one of the most significant figures in Hungarian history.
Elizabeth of Kyiv: Queen of Norway and Denmark
Elizabeth Yaroslavna became the queen of Norway and Denmark thanks to her intellect and diplomatic talents. Her daughter also became a queen, and Elizabeth saved the orphaned English princess Gytha from a hateful marriage by sending a warship against an authoritarian ruler. Her diplomatic connections helped strengthen relations between the Scandinavian countries and Kyivan Rus, making her name a symbol of wisdom and strength.
Agatha of Kyiv: Queen of England
Agatha Yaroslavna, who became the queen of England, left a significant legacy in English history. Her daughter, Margaret, became the queen of Scotland and a saint of that country, building many Christian temples and performing numerous good deeds. Agatha was also the progenitor of such famous historical figures as Richard the Lionheart and Mary Stuart. Her influence on English and Scottish history is invaluable.
The Rescue of St. Sophia
In the 1930s, under Stalin’s orders, the process of demolishing the St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv began. The explosives were already set, but unexpectedly, a calligraphic letter from France arrived, threatening to sever diplomatic relations if the portrait of their legendary queen Anna was destroyed. This letter saved the thousand-year-old architectural marvel of Kyiv. This historic act demonstrates how deeply Kyiv’s legacy is rooted in European history and culture.
Ukraine’s European Heritage
Today, Ukraine once again seeks integration with Europe. Kyiv, which gave Europe 158 queens and kings, continues to be a center of culture and history. The legacy of the grand princes of Kyivan Rus and their daughters, who became European queens, reminds us of the deep connection between Ukraine and European countries.
Forward to Victory
Ukraine, with its rich historical heritage, deserves to be part of the European family. Kyiv, a center of culture and history, is ready once again to share its heritage with the world. Who can deny Ukraine the right to join the EU when its historical legacy is so closely intertwined with Europe’s history?
Kyiv gave Europe 158 queens and kings! And it will give more! Forward to victory!
Time Ukraine Israel notes that the significance of Kyiv in European history is hard to overestimate. This news portal, dedicated to covering important events related to Ukraine and its Jewish community, emphasizes how deeply Kyiv’s heritage has penetrated European culture. The Kyiv queens, who became important figures in the history of France, Hungary, Norway, Denmark, and England, symbolize the inseparable bond between Ukraine and the European world. As Ukraine strives for European integration, its historical heritage serves as a powerful reminder of its significance and influence.
