Archduchess Margaretha of Austria

What people wore

Festive Jewelry and Hairstyles for Ukrainian Women

Ukrainian women on festive days adorned themselves with necklaces featuring coins, such as those with Austrian coins or dukach pendants. On such occasions, unmarried girls in the Kherson region braided their hair in two plaits wrapped around the head and decorated them with colorful ribbons and flowers.

Getting around

Horse-drawn coach travel speeds and types

In the late 19th century, traveling by horse-drawn post coach typically covered about 107 kilometers per day, though travelers sometimes doubled this distance in winter by negotiating with drivers. Coaches varied from simple carts to luxurious dormeuses, which allowed passengers to lie down and sleep during long trips.

At the table

Maize was imported for food

Because local maize yields were insufficient to feed the dense population, the region had to import maize from Romania to use as a staple food.

Music

Easter circle dances and songs

On Easter Sunday in Galicia, young unmarried women gathered on the grass outside the church to perform Hahilky, ancient spring dances and songs performed in a circle.

Daily life

Student Housing and Support

Bursas, or student dormitories, provided essential services like accommodation, healthy food, heat, light, and laundering for a symbolic monthly fee of 13 korona and 42 heller. These institutions were established by local communities to support students who otherwise could not afford to study away from home.