Ukraine Establishes a National Pantheon: Which Historical Figures Will Be Returned for Reburial.

Building a Ukrainian Pantheon of National Heroes

According to Espreso.tv: Oleksandr Alfiorov, head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory, has unveiled plans to create a national pantheon that will involve repatriating the remains of prominent figures to Ukraine. This initiative includes both actual reburials and the construction of cenotaphs for those who have not received proper honors. Alfiorov clarified that the pantheon will not include already-celebrated icons like Taras Shevchenko, Lesya Ukrainka, or Ivan Franko, but rather will span over a thousand years of honoring ancestors.

Figures Who May Be Included in the Pantheon

Among the individuals who could be part of the pantheon, Alfiorov cited the example of Ivan Mazepa, whose burial site is currently lost. Also to be honored is Avgustyn Voloshyn, president of Carpathian Ukraine, who is buried in a mass grave. The pantheon will have two components: actual reburials and cenotaphs, making it possible to commemorate outstanding Ukrainians who made significant contributions to the country's history.

The pantheonization process stipulates that individuals can only be honored 20 to 25 years after their death. Alfiorov noted that creating the pantheon is complicated by the long-term Russian occupation in the form of the USSR.

“Our state was under Russian occupation in the form of the USSR for a long time,” stated Oleksandr Alfiorov.

Alfiorov also emphasized that

“Our Pantheon will be unique,”

This initiative to establish a Ukrainian pantheon represents a major step in restoring historical memory and paying tribute to prominent figures who have become crucial symbols of national identity. The project could help strengthen national consciousness and develop cultural heritage, especially given the modern challenges Ukraine faces. By commemorating these outstanding individuals, the country has an opportunity to reconnect with its history and solidify its cultural foundation.