Taras Shevchenko Monument Opened In Prague

A monument dedicated to famous Ukrainian poet and artist Taras Shevchenko is just unveiled in the capital of the Czech Republic. The President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko who has arrived to Prague accompanied with his spouse with an official visit took part in the opening ceremony.

The Ukrainian leader expressed his appreciation to Czech people who made possible such an event. Mr. Yushchenko recalled that though Taras Shevchenko had not ever visited the Czech Republic he had very close and friendly connections with prominent representatives of the Czech revival such as
Jan Kollar, Vaclav Hanka and Pavel Safarik. Besides, one of the best Shevchenko’s is dedicated to Jan Hus, one of the greatest national heroes of the Czech Republic.

Which is more, namely in Prague the first uncensored and full edition of the most popular and best known poem Kobzar written by Shevchenko was published in 1876. It was the time when Ukrainian language and literature (among with some other national languages) was banned in the Russian empire. So Czech people has all rights to be proud of their input into development of Ukrainian culture.

Note: Taras Shevchenko (1814-1861) is regarded as one of the main founders on modern Ukrainian literature. Immense is his contribution into modern Ukrainian language and culture in general. He is the author of many poetic masterpieces written both in Ukrainian and Russian. He is also known as a rather good painter and illustrator.

Photo: One of the Taras Shevchenko monuments (blog.kievukraine.info)