Kharkov

The territory of modern Kharkov began to be habitable by people in deep antiquity. In the 8th century, Slavs created a settlement on the site of modern Kharkov, which in the 10th century grew into the city called Donets, an important centre of handicrafts and trade. In the middle of the 13th century, the city was totally destroyed by the Mongols.



Traditionally, it is believed that the modern city of Kharkov was founded by Ukrainian Cossacks in the middle of the 17th century. The name Kharkov, according to legend, comes from the Cossack Kharko (Khariton), one of the first settlers.



After being completely destroyed during World War II, Kharkov, one of the largest cities in Ukraine, quickly returned to being a centre of industry and science. Kharkov is known for high-level nuclear technology, engineering and metalworking, specialising in the production of military equipment, turbines and aircraft. Its 13 universities and numerous technical institutions attract some 10,000 foreign students each year. During the 1970s, a human rights protection movement was established there.