Dnipro – a city seeking hope in difficult times

The city of Dnipro is a significant economic and cultural center of central Ukraine, and it shares a rich industrial and manufacturing history with Ostrava, particularly in the steel industry. 

Unfortunately, Dnipro is one of the cities that has been affected by the horrific Russian aggression, although not to the extent of some other Ukrainian cities. Certain parts of the city and its infrastructure have been damaged or destroyed, but despite this, the city continues to function normally, and it would be a shame not to mention a few places and attractions that make the city so special.

The Dnieper River flows through the city, forming a natural dividing line between western and eastern Ukraine. Along the river stretches a 23-kilometer-long waterfront, called Dnipro Quay, which is very pleasant for walking, cycling, or sitting in one of the local restaurants and cafes. Across the bridge, you can reach Monastery Island, where you will find the local beach.

While walking along the quay, you will also come across the Wish Ball, into which people place papers with their desires. The ball symbolizes luck, hope, and belief in a better future, which has even deeper meaning for the city's residents in these difficult times.

In Dnipro, you will find a wide range of buildings from the time of the Soviet Union. The city's dominant feature is undoubtedly the Parus Hotel which was a very attractive destination for business travelers and foreign tourists after the collapse of the Soviet Union.  However, the hotel is now doomed to extinction and awaiting demolition. You can also visit the Dnipropetrovsk State Circus, whose architecture is typical of the era in which it was built. This circus is one of two in the city and should still be operating. Soviet-era architecture can also be found in Lazara Globy Park, which is a peaceful place for walks, cycling, and relaxation.

In the city, you can also admire the largest Jewish center in Europe, called the Memorah Center, which opened only in 2012. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, synagogues, and banquet halls.

Dnipro is also home to several interesting museums. The first of these is Rocket Park, in front of which three rockets stand tall at first glance. The museum showcases the history of Soviet and space power, while also offering a glimpse into Ukraine's technological progress. Another fascinating place is the Museum of the Time Machine, which will surely delight fans of retro inventions and classic cars, or the National Historical Museum, where you can find artifacts dating back up to three thousand years.

In the city, you can also admire the Holy Trinity Cathedral, dating back to the mid-19th century, or the Transfiguration Cathedral with its golden dome.

In Dnipro, you can of course enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine, such as cold soup okroshka, classic borsch, potato pancakes deruny, or stuffed chebureki rolls. Those with a sweet tooth will surely enjoy the pancakes known as syrnyky.

Dnipro offers many interesting sights, but during these challenging times, it is not entirely safe to visit. However, the cooperation and support that Ostrava provides to the city is more than necessary at this time.

For more information and updates, you can visit Dnipro's official website:

https://dniprorada.gov.ua/