Ukraine has been developing its own original culture since very early times of its history. During the medieval times of Kyivan Rus’, Ukrainian culture experienced some influences from Byzantium and the Vikings. However, despite a turbulent and dramatic history, Ukraine has preserved a cultural constant from the early times of its existence.

Christianity has played important role in the formation of culture. The churches of Kyiv caused admiration of foreign travelers visiting the city in the 11th and 12th centuries. A lot of Ukrainian architecture includes breathtaking cathedrals that are preserved from ancient times.

Educational system and literacy in Ukraine have been at high levels from the earliest history. In 11th century, Yarsolav the Wise founded a library which became one of the biggest in Europe, and promoted the institution of schools, including those for girls. In later centuries, literacy was widely spread in Ukraine. Book printing began in Ukraine in the 16th century. The first higher education institution in Eastern Europe - Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, was established in the early 17th century.

Folk music and dance, symphonic and opera music are among Ukraine's cultural strengths. Folk music and dance are preserved today by orchestras and dance companies.

Tavriysi Igri is a popular festival that celebrates Ukrainian folk heritage in connection to modern culture.

Taras Schevchenko

Oral literature existed in the very early periods of Ukrainian history and written literature began to develop from the end of the 10th century with religious and historical works. After the Mongol invasion in 13th century, Ukrainian literature was in decline until its revival in the 16th century. By the 19th century, the culture entered the era of prolific writing. 19th century literature reflected the rapid development of Ukrainian national consciousness under Russian rule. Poetic and prose works written by Taras Shevchenko, the most revered cultural figure of Ukraine, Ivan Kotlyarevsky, Lesya Ukrayinka, Ivan Franko, Mykhaylo Kotsyubynsky and other authors of the 19th and 20th centuries, were a worthy contribution to world literature.