Drogobych – On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the ancient city of Drogobych began marking its 934th anniversary with a patriotic highlight – the charity run “Victory”
This dynamic event, dedicated to supporting Ukraine’s defenders, gathered hundreds of residents and guests on Market Square, transforming the central streets into an arena of unity, health, and solidarity. The run became not just a sporting occasion but a symbol of the community’s resilience in challenging times, where every step is a step toward Victory.
The event, as reported by DROBRO, was organized by Drogobych military veteran and ultramarathoner Serhiy Panykevych, who recently covered 1,500 km across Ukraine in the UltraUkraine framework. This marathon, dedicated to army support, gathered thousands of participants and millions of hryvnias for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Panykevych, along with Ivan Huliak, inspired the community for a local run, turning it into a symbol of resilience. “Running is not about speed, but about unity. Every step — for Victory,” shared Panykevych before the start.
Дрогобич у русі: Благодійний забіг “Перемога” відкрив святкування 934-річчя міста (Відео)https://t.co/V5Vezn9LeU pic.twitter.com/oAOyzdeuxt
— Дрогобич чиНа ❗️ DroBro7/24 (@DroBro10) September 7, 2025
Historical Roots: From “Second Bych” to the Modern City
The history of Drogobych dates back to deep antiquity, making it one of the oldest cities in Galicia. The first documented mention of the settlement is from 1387 in the Lviv court records, where “Marcin of Drogobych” appears. However, archaeological evidence and legends indicate that the city’s roots are much older — likely from the late 11th century. The city emerged as an important trade and transport hub between Kyivan Rus and the western lands, and its name derives from the ancient settlement of “Bych,” which, according to legends, was destroyed by hordes, and its inhabitants founded the “Second Bych” — Drogobych.
The legend of the founding, recorded as early as the 19th century, tells of the raid by Khan Bunyak Sholudivy on Bych. The warriors hid in the forests, and leader Gryva ordered straw to be lit under the bulls, which in roaring herds frightened the enemies. From that time, Drogobych has been associated with salt — the key industry that made it a center of salt production in the 15th century. In 1427, King Władysław of Varna granted the city Magdeburg rights, securing its status as a fairground center. Over the centuries, Drogobych became part of the Habsburg Empire (1772), enduring Polish, Soviet, and Nazi occupations, where thousands of Drogobych residents fought for freedom.
Today’s 934th anniversary is a conventional date, based on the traditional count from 1091, though historians debate its accuracy. The city prides itself on its heritage: St. George’s Church (UNESCO), the Church of St. Bartholomew (1392), and the choral synagogue remind of its multicultural history. During wartime, Drogobych has become a refuge for relocated institutions, like Donetsk University, and a center of volunteering.
Background: From Ultramarathon to Local Unity
The 934th anniversary celebrations in Drogobych in 2025 take place in a special time — without lavish festivities, but with an emphasis on charity and support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). The program was approved by the city council under Mayor Taras Kuchma, aiming to raise funds for a veterans’ development center. Donation boxes are placed at all locations, and events focus on patriotism, culture, and sports.
The charity run “Victory” became a logical continuation of recent events. Its organizer is Drogobych military veteran and ultramarathoner Serhiy Panykevych, who recently covered 1,500 km across Ukraine in the UltraUkraine framework. This marathon, dedicated to army support, gathered thousands of participants and millions of hryvnias for the AFU. Panykevych, along with Ivan Huliak, inspired the community for a local run, turning it into a symbol of resilience. “Running is not about speed, but about unity. Every step — for Victory,” shared Panykevych before the start.
On the eve, September 4, the mayor’s office announced the event, and on September 5, community organizations caring for people with disabilities were honored, emphasizing the inclusivity of the celebrations. Also announced is the 100th charity fair “Drogobych Bazaar” and an artistic-theatrical excursion “Drogobych at the Crossroads of Eras” at 3:00 p.m. on Zhupna Street, 4. Due to this, traffic in the center is restricted from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Today’s Run: The City’s Energy in Motion
The event started at 10:00 a.m. with registration on Market Square near the water column — a symbol of old Drogobych. Hundreds of participants — from children to veterans — donned sports uniforms with patriotic symbols. At 11:00 a.m., the starting signal sounded, and the column set off on a 2-kilometer route through the central streets: from the Market via Shevchenko Street to Castle Hill. The atmosphere was charged: musical accompaniments, Ukrainian flags, and chants of “Running for Victory!” echoed everywhere.
Ultramarathoners Panykevych and Huliak participated, sharing their running experience as a metaphor for struggle. “After 1,500 km across Ukraine, running with my hometown is an honor. We’re raising for drones for the 15th Brigade ‘Black Forest’,” said Huliak. Among the participants were students from the relocated Donetsk University (dedication at 1:00 p.m. near the monument to Yuriy Drohobych), volunteers, and families of fallen heroes. The run ended with a flash mob on the Market: participants formed the word “Victory” for a photo.
According to preliminary data, over 50,000 UAH has been raised, which will go to the veterans’ center. “This is not just running — it’s our response to the challenges. Drogobych has always been a city of strength, from salt makers to warriors,” noted Mayor Taras Kuchma.
Future Celebrations: Charity Above All
On September 8, the Day of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the events continue: at 12:00 p.m. on Castle Hill — the “Drogobych Bazaar” fair with crafts and artisans; at 1:00 p.m. — presentation of the book by Yaroslav Isaievych “The City of Drogobych 16-18th Centuries”; at 2:00 p.m. — awarding of the Yuriy Drohobych Prize and a sweet quiz for children. On September 13 — the “934FM” festival with Kurgan & Agregat, Epolets, and others, with the goal of raising 934,934 UAH for the AFU.
Drogobych, a city with a centuries-old history, today demonstrates how the past inspires the present. The charity run “Victory” is just the beginning, reminding us: together we are stronger. In times when Ukraine is fighting, every initiative is a step toward peace. Drogobych residents, just like 934 years ago, do not give up.