For the first time in history, Ukrainian cultural heritage is represented in one of the world’s leading museums — the Royal Armory of Great Britain. From July 18 to August 3, 2025, the saber of Hetman Ivan Mazepa from the late 17th century will be on display here.
The exhibition was opened with the participation of British actor and writer Sir Stephen Fry, a long-time supporter of Ukraine.
The exhibition was initiated by the public organization UKRAINE WOW, The Royal Armouries museum, the Tarnovsky Chernihiv Regional History Museum, and Ajax Systems.
“This event is a powerful opportunity to once again speak about Ukrainian culture and heritage, and about the remarkable figures of our past. For centuries, Russia tried to tarnish the name of Hetman Mazepa. Today, he receives the recognition he deserves — as a hero who fought for his country’s sovereignty and freedom. We are grateful to the United Kingdom and the Royal Armouries for supporting this initiative at the Tower of London,” said UKRAINE WOW co-founders Yaroslava Gres and Yulia Solovey.
According to Maksym Blakytny, director of the Chernihiv Museum, Mazepa’s saber is a unique artifact created under the influence of Eastern weaponry art. In 2022, the museum was damaged by shelling, but thanks to international support, it is possible not only to preserve the relics but also to share them with the world.
The saber is on display in the White Tower of the Tower of London, the oldest part of the complex, founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century.