“TravelBook.Cities” project presents two new animated episodes that tell the story of the unconquered Ukrainian cities of Izyum and Bakhmut. 

These films continue the project's mission of highlighting the history, cultural heritage, and indomitable spirit of Ukrainian cities and towns that have withstood the devastating effects of war.

The episode about Izyum, featuring Ms Rodzynka as the main narrator, covers the city's history from ancient times to the present, telling the story of landmarks such as Mount Kremianets and cultural attractions such as the Stuka bus stop. Alla Koshlyak, a military servicewoman and journalist for Ukraine's first travelling radio station, Khartiia, is the voice of Ms Rozdynka.
 

“We often hear the names of cities in the news because of the full-scale Russian invasion. But what do we really know about these places? If we can find some light in our current difficult experience, let it be knowledge and empathy. Because of the war, we discover our history in a different way and learn more about each other. I hope that someday the first association with Izyum will be with its sights and highlights, not with the crimes of the Russian occupiers,” said Alla Koshlyak.

Also, the YouTube channel of the project “TravelBook.Ukraine” has also released an episode about Bakhmut, a city known for its strategic importance and historical heritage. The cartoon was voiced by Oleksandr “Teren” Budko, a volunteer of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war who lost both legs, a public figure, athlete, and author of the book The Story of a Stubborn Man.

“For me, Bakhmut is a symbol of resilience and the struggle that goes on not only on the battlefield, but also in the hearts of those who are recovering from heavy losses,” said Sashko Teren. “I believe that our cities, like ourselves, are capable of rising from the ruins and becoming stronger again. This is not just a story about courage, it is a story about our ability not to give up, no matter what.”

The author of the project, Iryna Taranenko, emphasized the significance of these episodes: “The cities of Izyum and Bakhmut are not just geographical points on the map, but symbols of the strength and resilience of Ukrainians. The animated stories we create are not just stories about places, but a tribute to the indomitable spirit of these communities.”
 

The project was created by the Green Penguin agency with the support of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation. The “TravelBook.Ukraine” project, which has already presented animated films about Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Chernihiv and Kyiv, continues to reveal the unique histories and cultural heritage of unconquered Ukrainian cities. The animated films inspire viewers of all ages to learn more about the history and cultural richness of our country.

The new episodes are available on the YouTube channel of the project “TravelBook.Ukraine”.

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