Saint Volodymyr
Saint Volodymyr the Great (born c. 956 – died July 15, 1015) was the youngest son of the Kyivan prince Svyatoslav. After a dynastic struggle with his elder brother Yaropolk, Volodymyr secured the Kyivan throne and initiated a series of reforms aimed at consolidating the state. One of his significant actions was the establishment of a pagan temple—a pantheon of six main Slavic gods, where, according to some sources, human sacrifices may have taken place. Some historians suggest that these measures were a reaction to the Christian views of his brother Yaropolk. Archaeological findings at this site point to the possible existence of a church built by Yaropolk.
Volodymyr conducted numerous military campaigns, notably against the Poles, Vyatichs, and Yatvags. After his campaign in Chersonesus, he embraced Christianity, married the Byzantine princess Anna, and formed an alliance with Byzantium. Volodymyr also minted his own coins, thus solidifying the status of the Kyivan state on the international stage.
According to chronicles, in 988, upon returning from Chersonesus, Volodymyr ordered the destruction of pagan idols and had the statue of Perun dragged through the streets and beaten with clubs. He then compelled the inhabitants of Kyiv to be baptized in the Dnieper River. This event, however, is likely not the beginning but rather one of the key stages in the long process of Christianization of Rus’. Research indicates that by this time, Christianity was already widespread in the state, as evidenced by the remains of Christian burials and sacred structures, pointing to significant Christian communities within the population. Reports from Patriarch Photius mention that after the campaign of Askold to Constantinople (circa 860s), part of his army embraced Christianity, confirming the deep roots of the faith in Rus’.
Iconography
The iconography of Prince Volodymyr in Ukrainian iconography became more widespread in the mid-17th century, reaching its peak in the 19th century. He is depicted in separate icons (for example, in the deacon’s doors of iconostases) as well as in pairs with Princess Olga. Traditionally, Volodymyr is shown wearing long princely robes, with a crown, scepter, and orb, or with a cross and sword, symbolizing both his Christian deeds and military achievements. From the late 19th century, under the influence of historicism, Volodymyr began to be portrayed in Byzantine attire, often with the trident (his dynastic symbol) on his cloak. Additionally, taking into account archaeological evidence, including coins with the prince’s portrait, he is sometimes depicted without a beard and with long mustaches.
Mykhailo Skop
