For Ukraine's Occupied South and East, a Symbolic Tenth Route Has Been Created by the State Tourism Agency

Fresh Multi-Regional Travel Itineraries

According to Міністерство Туризму: The State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine has unveiled nine new interregional routes on the “Travel Ukraine” portal, together with a symbolic tenth itinerary that crosses the country's currently occupied southern and eastern territories. This initiative is part of Ukraine's wider wartime efforts to preserve its cultural and natural heritage. Although the tenth route cannot be physically traversed at present, it has been mapped out with the expectation that Ukrainians will walk it once the territories are liberated. The itinerary features a range of key locations, including:

• Crimean Mountains
• Askania-Nova Reserve
• Donetsk Region's Salt Mines
• Azov Sea Coast
• Dzharylhach
• Lemurian Lake
• Sviatohirsk

Because parts of the route pass through areas still awaiting liberation, the itinerary carries a strong symbolic meaning.

National Identity and Independence

The announcement includes greetings for Ukraine's Independence Day, pointing to the importance of national identity and unity amid today's challenges. Presenting these routes, especially the symbolic one, demonstrates Ukraine's commitment to keeping tourism infrastructure alive even in wartime. It also embodies a persistent hope for reclaiming occupied lands and returning to normal life-an essential element of national memory and cultural preservation. In this context, the Independence Day celebration becomes especially meaningful, underscoring the resilience and solidarity of Ukrainians as they defend their rights and territories.

As the nation commemorates significant milestones like Independence Day, the spirit of resilience shines through. This is particularly evident as Ukraine marks National Flag Day, with the blue and yellow banner proudly displayed over newly liberated cities. Such moments highlight the ongoing journey toward freedom and unity, reinforcing the cultural significance of routes like the symbolic tenth itinerary. To explore more about how these celebrations resonate with the nation's identity, read our coverage on National Flag Day in Ukraine.