International Exhibition of State Symbols of Ukraine (17th- early 18th centuries) in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine during the official inauguration ceremony of President Victor Yushchenko

The presentation of national historical relics and attributes of state power of the Cossack era during the official inauguration ceremony of President Victor Yushchenko (on January 23, 2005) was one of the most important historical, cultural and socio-political initiatives of the Foundation.

A mini-exposition of  the actual  exhibit,  displayed Ukrainian historic artifacts. These museum pieces were unveiled in the Verkhovna Rada as Viktor Yushchenko made his way to the session hall.

The exposition series consisted of five unique artifacts of the 17th- early 18th centuries, associated with the names of the famous Hetmans: Petro Konashevych-Sahaidachny, Bohdan Khmelnytsky and Ivan Mazepa. At the request of the Foundation, the governments and museums of Poland, Sweden and Ukraine kindly agreed to provide these rare historic pieces for use during the official inauguration ceremony of the President of Ukraine.

The following was represented in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine:

1. The Cross of Hetman Petro Konashevych-Sahaidachny (from the collection of the National Museum of History of Ukraine, Kyiv);
2. Personal flag of Bohdan Khmelnytsky (from the collection of the Military Museum, Stockholm (Sweden));
3. Bohdan Khmelnytsky’s mace (from the collection of the Museum of the Polish Army, Warsaw (Poland));
4. Bohdan Khmelnytsky’s hat (from the collection of the National Museum of History of Ukraine, Kyiv);
5. Reliquary of Ivan Mazepa (Office of the President of Ukraine).

The demonstration of national shrines during the official inauguration ceremony of the President of Ukraine proved not only their undeniable historical and cultural significance. First of all, they focused the public’s attention on the longevity of the state tradition, revealed the historical potential of the nation, encouraged reflection on the complex processes of state self-realization of Ukraine, inspired the heroism of the past and awakened a sense of patriotism and national dignity in every Ukrainian.

National historical relics unite us all around a common past and have us looking forward to significant historical achievements in the future.