Dnieper River At 1,420 miles long, the Dnieper River is Europe’s third longest. The Dnieper flows from Kiev through Russia, Belarus and Ukraine to the Black Sea. Throughout history the river has served as an important commercial route for the Vikings, Slavs and Byzantines. Landscapes along the Dnieper River consist of gently rolling hills dotted with forest groves, ancient villages, wide lakes and reservoirs.	Scenery Along The Dnieper
Kherson Founded on the site of Fort Alexander-Schanz in 1778, Kherson is an important industrial centre that today specializes in shipbuilding. Visitors should be sure to see the archaeological excavation site on the Kherson steppes, the remains of a 7th and 9th century B.C. ancient Scythian state.	Ancient Ruins in Ukraine
Kiev The capital of Ukraine and one of Europe’s oldest cities, Kiev is called the “Mother of Cities.” Its history can be traced back to 882, the time of the Kievan Rus, who descended from Viking traders visiting the area. From the 9th century on, Kiev was the main trade centre on the Dnieper River route from Scandinavia via the Black Sea to Constantinople. The old section of Kiev retains many historic buildings and monuments including the lovely domed St. Sophia Cathedral. Completed in 1037, it contains fascinating frescoes and mosaics as well as the marble tomb of Yaroslav the Wise.
Odessa A historically important Black Sea port, “The Pearl of the Black Sea” was built on the site of an ancient Greek colony, Odessos. It draws its rich history from the many different cultures that settled here including the Crimean Tartars, Turks, Russians and Germans among others. Odessa is particularly known for its beautiful architecture and popular beach resorts. A walk through the city reveals panoramic views and graceful historic buildings, including the beautiful Opera House. Another interesting attraction is the ornate Pasazh, a late 19th century shopping mall with rows of baroque structures. Browse through one of the city’s many museums such as the Archaeology Museum and the Museum of Maritime History.	A Graceful Odessa Ballet
Sevastopol The terminus of the Moscow-Crimea rail line, the harbour city of Sevastopol is a treasure trove of architectural gems including the beautiful Byzantine St. Vladimir Cathedral set high on a hill above the city. Sevastopol Bay is a lovely natural harbour and the principal base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet since the early 19th century. Discover the city’s maritime history in the Museum of the Black Sea Fleet.
Yalta Perched on the southern coast of Crimea, Yalta passed through many hands over the centuries until Russia took control in the late 18th century. The city centre stretches from the eastern end of Yalta Bay, straddling the Bystra River. Explore Naberezhna Lenia, a waterfront promenade with palms, pebble beaches and art markets. Or visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a beautifully composed piece of neo-Byzantine architecture built at the turn of the 20th century. Fans of Anton Chekov will want to visit the Chekov House Museum, where the great Russian playwright spent the last years of his life. The house features numerous editions of Chekov’s works, and memorabilia like his pens, medical kit, and his garden.
Zaporozhye Zaporozhye is more than 200 years old and stretches across both sides of the Dnieper River. The city encompasses the environmentally protected Khortitsa Island whose beauty, intrigue and charm have mesmerized artists, authors and poets for centuries. This impenetrable island was an important defence for the Cossacks in protecting themselves against invaders and was integral in the fight to reunite Ukraine with Russia.	Traditional Costumes, Zaporozhye

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