Taras Shevchenko Park (Kyiv/Ukraine)
Iryna Dolhopola and Amber Chiozza
I want to tell you about the most charming park in Kyiv – Taras Shevchenko park that is located across the street from the main University of Ukraine (Taras Shevchenko University) in the central part of the capital of Ukraine. The last time I walked there it was the end of 2021, but before I also visited this park very often, maybe because I worked not far from this place.
Unfortunately, on the 10th of October 2022, an enemy Russian missile flew into this beautiful park and significantly damaged it and the surrounding area. That’s why I want to tell you about this park, because Ukrainians do not know what will happen tomorrow, and not only with this park but also with their lives.
The park and the University are dedicated to the famous Ukrainian poet who was writing poetry against the government (Russian Empire) and wanting Ukraine to be free of Russia.
So, in the center of this not very big but amazing park you can see a monument of Taras Shevchenko. In this area people like to meet each other and even dance during of warm summer days. But first of all, this is a favorite place of students where it’s possible to read books, and you are allowed to bring a blanket and relax on the grass. The peculiarity of the park is its small size and the presence of a huge number of various art objects. In the depths there is a beautiful playground. In summertime there are working fountains, and a pump station, where you can drink a water, is open.
A nice thing at the entrance to the park is that the information center was made in the form of “Kyiv tram”, where you can drink coffee and buy souvenirs. This special park is always contributing to the nice natural energy from the trees, flowers and the unique “weird benches”. Also, you can find over there vendors selling ice creams, drinks and other snacks. At the south end there is a chess area.
So, today this oasis of beauty and calmness that I miss so much needs a renovation after the attack but I believe it will be even better very soon.
By Iryna Dolhopola
