Ten fun facts about Kiev

1. Kiev is Europe's 8th largest city!

Kiev is the 8th largest city in Europe, boasting a population of 2,847,200 as of 2013. This impressive figure places Kiev ahead of cities such as Hamburg, Vienna, and Prague in terms of population size, making it a major hub of activity and culture in the continent.

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2. Kyiv Gets a New Name: Kiev

In 2006, the U.S. government made a significant change to the spelling of the commonly used English name for the Ukrainian capital, Kiev. The new official spelling is 'Kyiv', which is the transliteration of the Ukrainian spelling of the city's name. This change was made to better reflect the Ukrainian pronunciation of the city's name and to show respect for the Ukrainian language.

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3. Kiev's Vernadsky National Library is a treasure trove of knowledge

Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, is home to the Vernadsky National Library, one of the largest national libraries in the world. With over 30 million items in its collection, the library is a treasure trove of knowledge, containing books, periodicals, manuscripts, maps, and other documents. It is also home to the world's largest collection of Ukrainian literature, with over 1.5 million items. The library is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of educational and cultural activities.

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4. Kiev Fortress Now a Museum

The Kiev Fortress, now a museum, was once part of a system of western Russian fortresses that were built to protect the city from invasion. Constructed in the late 19th century, the fortress was designed to be a formidable defensive structure, with walls up to 10 meters thick and a moat that was up to 8 meters deep. Today, the fortress has been restored and is open to the public, offering visitors a unique insight into the city's history and its role in the defense of Russia.

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5. Kiev Zoo: 328 Species of Animals

Kiev Zoo, the only zoo in the city of Kiev, has been open for over a century and is home to an impressive 328 species of animals. Established in the early 1900s, the zoo has been a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife from around the world. From majestic lions and tigers to playful monkeys and exotic birds, the Kiev Zoo is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

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6. Kiev's lush greenery makes it a perfect city for summer walks

Kiev is a city renowned for its lush greenery, with an abundance of trees providing ample shade in the summer months. This makes it possible to walk from one end of the city to the other without ever having to step into direct sunlight. The city's parks and gardens are a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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7. Kiev's 'Motherland': 203-ft, 9-ton Sword-Wielding Statue

Kiev is home to the awe-inspiring 'Motherland Monument', a 203-foot tall statue with a 9-ton sword in its hand. This impressive monument is a symbol of the city's strength and resilience, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Kiev.

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8. Kiev's Extreme Temperatures

Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, has experienced extreme temperatures over the years. In 1936, the hottest temperature ever recorded in the city was an astonishing 102.9 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest temperature was an equally impressive -26.0 degrees Fahrenheit in 1929. These temperatures are a testament to the city's diverse climate and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

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9. A City of 448 Waterways!

Kiev is a city of water, with 448 bodies of open water recognized within its boundaries. From the mighty Dnieper River to the numerous lakes, ponds, and canals, Kiev is a city of aquatic beauty. The Dnieper River is the largest of the bodies of water, stretching over 2,200 kilometers and providing a vital source of transportation and recreation. The city is also home to numerous lakes, such as the Kiev Sea, the largest lake in the city, and the smaller lakes of Trukhaniv, Svyatoshyno, and Hryshko. In addition, there are numerous canals, such as the Desenka Canal, which connects the Dnieper River to the Kiev Sea, and the Obolon Canal, which connects the Dnieper River to the Obolon River. All of these bodies of water provide a stunning backdrop to the city and offer a variety of recreational activities.

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10. A City of History and Culture

Kiev is an ancient city, with a history that dates back to the late 9th century. It is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, and has been a major cultural and political center for centuries. It is home to many historical monuments, including the 11th century St. Sophia Cathedral, the Golden Gate, and the Kiev Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kiev is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It is a city of great beauty and culture, and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Eastern Europe.

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