Kyiv
WARNING: Intermittent missile strikes by Russia continue in Kyiv. Stay away from military facilities, transportation and energy infrastructure and key government facilities. See the warning box at Ukraine for up-to-date details. | |
Government travel advisories | |
(Information last updated 09 Dec 2023) |
Kyiv (Ukrainian: Київ, also transliterated Kiev from Russian: Киев) is the capital of Ukraine, as well as the country's largest and most vibrant city. It is a city where the golden domes of Orthodox cathedrals sit amidst royal palaces and the grey concrete of Soviet Brutalist buildings.
Understand
[edit]The official name of the city has long been Kyiv, a transliteration from the Ukrainian Київ. A common alternative English name of the city, Kiev, is a transliteration of the Russian Киев. While the two names were formerly used interchangeably in English, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the choice of name has assumed political connotations; supporters of the Ukrainian government tend to use "Kyiv" as a sign of solidarity, while supporters of the Russian invasion tend to use "Kiev".
In 2020, it was home to 3 million people. It is in the north of central Ukraine on the Dnieper River (Ukrainian: Дніпро, Russian: Днепр).
History
[edit]The Ukrainians are understandably very proud of their capital's role in establishing European civilization in Eastern Europe. Kyiv is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe dating back to the 5th century although settlements at this location existed much earlier. By the late 9th century, Kyiv was at the center of an emerging Eastern Slavic state. Between the 10th and early 13th centuries, the city reached its golden age as the capital of the first Ukrainian state known today as Kievan Rus (Kyivan Ruthenia, or Rus-Ukraine). It was this state that shaped the religious and cultural foundations of the modern East Slavic states of Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. Russia also claims its origin in Kievan Rus, and this claim continues to be a major bone of contention between Ukrainians and Russians.
In the middle of the 13th century, Kievan Rus was overrun by the Mongols. Later that century, Kyiv became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. In 1569 the city was absorbed into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. In 1654 the Cossack, Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky "liberated" Kyiv from that Commonwealth, but then promptly folded it into the Russian Empire, an action that continues to be a sore point for Ukrainian nationalists.
Full Russian annexation came in 1775 and the city remained under Russian rule with brief independence between 1918 and 1920 during the chaos that followed the Russian Revolution. Over these two centuries, Kyiv experienced growing Russification and Russian immigration. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it became the capital of independent Ukraine and is now discovering its place as a large European capital.
Climate
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Average temperatures are maximum 26°C (79°F), minimum 15°C (59°F) in summer and maximum -2°C (28°F), minimum -8°C (17°F) in winter. Spring and autumn (fall) can be very brief. Heat waves featuring temperatures as high as 38°C (100°F) are rare but not unheard of in the summer months, and brief but potent cold spells with temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) are not uncommon in winter. Wintery precipitation can begin as early as October, and snowfall is fully expected by late fall and the winter months, when it can become intense enough to affect travel. However, snow cover is not always constant and even in the winter there can be periods when the ground lies barren. Warm clothes are a necessity from November through March, but dressing in removable layers will help travelers stay comfortable in any situation.
Talk
[edit]In general, the people in Kyiv are hospitable and will be eager to help you. However, if you don't have a knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian you may find service in restaurants and shops difficult, though this is slowly changing among younger generations with more exposure to English. 51% of all Ukrainians can speak English, while the percentage in cities like Kyiv is being higher than that.
While 85% of residents claim Ukrainian ethnicity, most Kyivans also speak Russian (all Kyivans can understand and speak Ukrainian, nonetheless). Many Kyivans, and even the residents of nearby villages, often speak a dialect referred to as Surzhyk in which it is common to hear phonemes and words which do not exist in standard Russian such as Ukrainian "г" (IPA: /ɦ/) or the word "немае". Like many former Soviet cities, Kyiv is a multicultural place: you will certainly meet ethnic Russians - which form about 13% of the city's population - and also Armenians, Azeris, Belarusians, Georgians and Tatars. There are also people claiming Jewish, Polish, Romanian and Hungarian descent.
Officially, all signs are in Ukrainian only. Since 2011, signs with Latin transliteration are starting to make an appearance throughout Ukraine.
Get in
[edit]By plane
[edit]Note: Due to the state of war, Ukraine's airspace remains closed to civil aviation. | |
(Information last updated 28 Jan 2024) |
By train
[edit]- See also: Ukraine#By train
There are international direct trains from Chisinau (15 hr), Vienna (24 hr) and Chelm (18 hr). Ukrainian Railways[dead link] has Intercity trains from Poltava (3 hr), Lviv (5 hr), Kharkiv (4 hr 30), Dnipro (6 hr) and Odesa (7 hr 15 min) among many other smaller cities - usually with two daytime trains and one slower overnight train. Direct trains from Crimea (under Russian military occupation) remain suspended.
- 1 Kyiv Central Railway Station (Kyiv Pasazhyrskyi, Київ-Пасажирський), 1 Vokzalna Square (just west of city center), ☏ +380 44 239 8951, +380 44 503 6050. All mainline trains arrive here. The station is wide, with a bridge across the tracks between the north and south terminal buildings - each has its own ticket offices and other facilities. The north side is the main entrance facing city center, with M1 "Vokzalna", Pivnichna suburban train station, and buses and taxis into town, all in the square just outside. South side has the bus stops for both airports.
By bus
[edit]Tickets can be purchases on Omio, BlaBlaCar and other bus apps.
- 2 Central Bus station (Автобусний вокзал «Центральний»), 3 Demiivska Square (M2 "Demiivska"), ☏ +38 095 444 44 44, [email protected]. 09:00-21:00. International buses stop at the central station, which is a squalid place that is anything but central. There are frequent direct buses of variable quality from Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, Germany, Czech Republic and Austria. Some of the popular operators include FlixBus, INFOBUS, AutoLux, euroTICKET and others.
- 3 Kyiv Bus Station (Автостанція «Київ»), 1 Vokzalna Square (at Central Train Station).
- 4 Polissia Bus Station (Автостанція «Полісся»), 2 Tarasa Shevchenka Square (from M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha" take nortbound tram), ☏ +380 44 430-3554. For northern directions.
- 5 Pivdenna Bus Station (Автостанція «Південна»), 3 Akademika Hluskova Avenue (M2 "Ipodrom"), ☏ +380 44 257-4004. To/from Vinnytsa and other southbound destinations.
- 6 Darnytsia Bus Station (Автостанція «Дарниця»), 1 Leonida Kadeniuka Avenue (M1 "Chernihivska"), ☏ +380 44 559-4618.
- 7 Dachna Bus Station (Автостанція «Дачна»), 142 Beresteiskyi Avenue (M1 "Zhytomyrska", 700 m), ☏ +380 44 424-1503. Western directions.
- 8 Podil Bus Station (Автостанція «Поділ»), 15-A Nyzhnii Val Street (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha" 500 m), ☏ +380 44 417-3215.
- 9 Vydubychi Bus Station (Автостанція «Видубичі»), 3 Naberezhno-Pecherska Road (M3 "Vydubychi"), ☏ +380 44 524-2182. To Kaniv and Cherkasy.
By boat
[edit]It's possible to organize trips down the River Dnipro to the Black Sea in summer. A travel agency in Ukraine can book these trips for you.
Get around
[edit]Kyiv can seem quite foreign to the western tourist, as most signposts are in Cyrillic script. It is still largely a city where few people know English, but their number among young people is growing quickly. Many may not be able to maintain a conversation, but are likely to understand spoken English. Many cafés and restaurants offer menus in English, and the Metro has all announcements in Ukrainian and English. For the non-Russian or Ukrainian speaker, it's quite possible to get around easily, and it is a very interesting city to explore.
It is advisable, however, to pick up a pocket Russian or Ukrainian phrasebook, and learn the Cyrillic alphabet, which can be fun and is easy to learn. Spend some time practicing key words and phrases (e.g. 'hello', 'thank you' and 'bill please'). Even what you regard as a feeble attempt at Ukrainian or Russian will amuse most people to the point where they become comfortable engaging in pantomime or trying out the little bit of English they know.
Among locals, it might be considered impolite to chat loudly (e.g. in the Metro), point or wave one's hands. According to a superstition, it's suggested to avoid whistling indoors.
On foot
[edit]For shorter distances, there is no better way of getting around Kyiv than hitting the sidewalk, especially in the areas of the city center like Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Kontraktova Ploshcha, Arsenalna. The city center area consists of many hills, so be prepared and plan accordingly. The underground pedestrian crossings are ubiquitous and let you cross the busy streets without waiting for the traffic lights, many of them connect to the underground malls, being a specialty of Kyiv. Keep in mind they are often not equipped with elevators, just the stairs.
By municipal public transport
[edit]The base fare per trip is 8 грн with no difference for the length of the trip. Additional discounts apply for journeys paid in bulk. Each transfer means another trip (unless in the metro). E-Ticket guide can be found on the website.
There are 4 ways to pay for public transport trips in Kyiv:
- Users of Google Pay, Apple Pay and contactless credit/debit cards can pay directly without the need for a separate ticket; just tap your card or device on the turnstile reader.
- Single-journey paper tickets called QR tickets (not to be confused with the digital payment method listed below) can be purchased at the ticket office or ticket machines and scanned at the turnstile. These have replaced the old token system on the Metro.
- Tap the prepaid Kyiv Digital (Київ Цифровий) multi-journey plastic card. The card can be purchased for 50 грн at all metro stations, and in T-Kiosks all around the city. You can top up the card at metro stations, via the Kyiv Digital app (iOS, Android), on EasyPay[dead link], and at EasyPay, PrivatBank, City24[dead link] terminals.
- A digital version of the single-journey QR ticket can be purchased through the Kyiv Digital (Київ Цифровий) mobile app (iOS, Android) and used by scanning your phone screen at the turnstile.
All 4 are supported across the municipal transport network, including the funicular.
Tap / scan your preferred way of public transit payment only once when entering at the turnstile or at a ticket validator inside (depending on the mode of transport) and wait for a few seconds for confirmation. There is no need to scan again before exiting, since the price doesn't depend on the duration of the trip.
Buses and trams do not accept cash payment or sell tickets onboard, so remember to get a ticket or transit card ahead of time before boarding, if not using contactless payment. The modernised light-rail trams depart from dedicated platforms with turnstiles and ticket machines so there is no need to validate your ticket onboard; remember to choose the correct platform if catching a tram at the main railway station.
You can track public transport on the official website and EasyWay.
By metro
[edit]The Metro (Метро) is one of the pleasures of Kyiv. It is a clean and fast subway system, and it is easy to navigate once you realize that all three metro lines (red, blue and green) go through the city center. There are 52 stations operating, and ambitious plans for the lines' extensions. The official website can be found here.
All stations support contactless credit card/digital payment, but not necessarily at every turnstile - look for those marked with the corresponding logos, often indicated by bright yellow/orange color. A green arrow will appear, indicating that the payment has been successful. When passing through a turnstile, make sure you walk through the correct side of the turnstile i.e. scanning the ticket on your right, not to be hit with a metal gate that will slam shut.
The cost of using the contactless payment is the same as a single-ticket, and discounts are automatically applied if you travel frequently. You can also associate your contactless card with a monthly/half-monthly unlimited travel plan for further discounts. As of March 2020, a tourist pass is planned. It would provide with an unlimited number of trips in any municipal mode of transport for 24, 48, and 72 hours from the moment of activation. They will cost 100, 150, and 200 грн, respectively.
Most maps and signposts in the metro are translated into English. Every station has a unique three-digit number, with the first digit showing the number of the line (M1 for red, M2 for blue, and M3 for green). Once on board, every station is announced by loudspeakers and screens. These screens show a lot of weird ads between the stations, but flag an impending station before arrival. Upon departure, they then show the next station.
Metro stations where you can interchange have two different names - one for each line. If you are changing lines, the other station can be reached by an overpass in the center or near one of the ends of the platform.
Trains run every 30 to 150 seconds during business hours, every 5 min after 20:00, and every 10–15 min after 22:30. The last trains depart from the terminal stations around midnight, so your last chance to catch a train in the city center is between 00:15 and 00:25 (check the timetable of late departures, which is signposted on each station). Trains are often very crowded. Be prepared to push, as this may be the only way you get on the train during peak hours.
The Kyiv metro has some of the deepest stations in the world. The M1 "Arsenalna" is the deepest metro station in the world, at 107 m deep, and the M1 "Universytet" has one of the longest escalators (87 m long). Many stations have two long and intimidating escalators in a row.
Spend some time looking at the stations. The red line features impressive architecture, similar to that seen in the Moscow and Saint Petersburg metro systems. Elaborate mosaics in the "Zoloti Vorota" (Золоті ворота) station depict rulers and other historical characters of the medieval Kyivan Rus.
Note that as of 2022, several metro stations' names have been changed (for ex, Druzhby Narodiv is now Zvirynetska and Ploshcha Lva Tolsoho is now Ploshcha Ukrainskykh Heroiv); therefore, be careful when using maps of the city's public transit system that were printed before the war.
By bus / trolleybus
[edit]There are two types of city-run buses available – bus (автобус) and trolleybus (тролейбус) – as well as slow and moribund trams. Tap your phone (Google/Apple Pay compatible) at the orange ticket validator upon entering the vehicle. The message will signify the payment complete.
Unlike the buses in Western Europe, in Ukraine there is no need to neither wave for the bus to stop as it approaches, nor push a button to ask for a stop. They will always stop on every designated stop, which are marked by an inconspicuous sign on a telegraph pole.
The buses are often very crowded during peak hours, but the norm is to push your way in.
By tram
[edit]Travelling by tram mostly for on or to suburbs can be an option. In western Kyiv maybe a useful end station which is at the M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha". From here depart No.14 far to the westward and No.18 to the M1 "Vokzalna". Also, from M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha" depart to northbound No.11 to M2 "Obolon", No.19 to M2 "Minska", No.12 to northwest, a bit out of city limit to Horenka settlement. For more info, visit Kyivpastrans website.
By funicular
[edit]- 10 Funicular (Фунікулер), 3 Petra Sahaidachnoho Street (lower station near M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 425-1252, +380 44 254-6590. Summer: 06:00-23:00, winter: 07:00-22:00. A historic way constructed in 1905 to get from the upper city down to Podil (or, naturally, the other way around) is to catch the funicular from Mykhaylivs’ka Ploscha to Poshtova Ploscha in Podil. You can enjoy views of the Dnieper and left bank on the way down. 8 грн.
By marshrutka
[edit]You can also travel on so-called route taxis or minivans called marshrutky (маршрутки). These are privately run vehicles that travel assigned routes, which are listed on the front of the bus. They are easy to be confused with the public city buses, as both are shown on the apps like Google Maps. Marshrutka routes can be hard to figure out, but they have a list of stops on the window and a Metro logo for the metro stops. The best way to figure out where these go is to ask some of the locals. City maps usually picture all public transport, normal buses, trolleybuses, trams and marshrutky. The one downside to using marshrutky is that they tend to be a little overpacked (understatement) and very warm or cold, depending on season.
You can hail a marshrutka at the assigned bus stops. When you board, you pay the driver directly in cash or, if you're not near the driver, pass the money to the nearest passenger who will pass it to the driver. Your change will be returned in reverse order, but it is unwise to pass big bills. Kyiv Tsyfrovyi card / QR code can not be used in marshrutkas. The fare ranges for about 5 грн, and is usually stated on the front and sidewalk-side of the vehicle, so you will know how much you pay in advance. It is good to have some change, so you can pay exact amount.
When you are reaching your destination, simply yell out to the driver to stop "Na zupyntsi" with stress on "-pyn-"', which literally means "on the stop" in Ukrainian, or use Russian: "Na astanovkie", stressing on "-nov-" (some 100 m in advance to the bus stop you need). If you overshoot, you get a nice walk and a driver gets a little extra stress a day.
By taxi
[edit]Taxis are the easiest way to get around the city, with low fares by Western standards. Marked taxis that can be hailed on the street are relatively rare compared to ridesharing app drivers. An Uber trip within the inner city (i.e. between any two of the major downtown attractions) should normally cost between 100 and 200 грн, exceeding 300 грн only during rush hour (as of Jan 2024); prices may differ with other services.
By scooter
[edit]Kick scooter is a funny way to shorten your time while getting around the city.
By bike
[edit]There are more than 200 km of infrastructure for bicycles in Kyiv. While you can use your own bike, you can also rent one using one of the following companies:
By car (rental)
[edit]With the taxi app rides ubiquitous and cheap, there is generally little reason to rent a car unless exploring outside the city. Kyiv city traffic is known to be quite heavy unless on weekends.
Traditional car rental apps like Booking or Kayak let you compare the options across multiple locations for the car to rent for multiple days and has to be returned to the same location (unless paying extra fees).
Car-sharing apps like Getmancar may be a better choice for short trips and let you save money in comparison to the taxi apps, the cars can be picked-up and dropped off in minutes flexibly in the zones all over the city (including the airports). Make sure to sign up on the app a day before - as the validation is not instantaneous.
See
[edit]- 1 Khreshchatyk Street (Хрещатик) (M1 "Khreschatyk"). The main drag of the city center is closed to traffic on some weekends and full of entertainers and people wandering around. A big, happy crowd and very conducive to people watching.
- 2 Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Майдан Незалежності) (M2 "Maidan Nezalezhnosti"). Independence Square or Maidan is the place where opposition to pro-Russian governments gathered at different points between 2004 and 2013. This is a central meeting place in Kyiv.
- 3 Andriyivsky Uzviz or Andrew's Descent (Андріївський узвіз) (Andrew's Descent winds down to Kontraktova Ploshcha in Podil. M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"). At the top of this quaint, very rough, cobblestone street is St Andrew's Church (closed for restoration since 2011). Pavements are gradually being added to the Descent but, meanwhile, take a good pair of shoes. The street is lined with souvenir sellers, restaurants, galleries and museums. Touristy but retains its charm.
- 4 Golden Gate of Kyiv (Золоті ворота) (M3 "Zoloti Vorota"). This is a 1982 reconstruction of the Golden Gate of Kyiv, described by Mussorgski in "Pictures of an Exhibition". It is quite a nice spot to visit and learn about the town walls. Some nice buildings are also there, and you can inspect the Porsche Cayennes, Lexuses, Audis, BMWs and Mercedes of Ukraine's nouveau riche who are very much into conspicuous consumption.
- 5 Mariyinsky Palace (Маріїнський Палац) (M1 "Arsenalna"). Official ceremonial residence of the President of Ukraine in Kyiv. It is a Baroque palace on the hilly bank of the Dnipro River.
- 6 Mariyinsky park (Маріїнський Парк) (M1 "Arsenalna").
- 7 Kyiv TV Tower - Televiziyna vezha (Телевізійна вежа), 10 Dorohozhytska Street (M3 "Dorohozhychi"). A 385-m-high (1,263 ft) lattice steel tower built in 1973. It is not accessible for tourists. The operational platform is at 200 m.
- 8 People's Friendship Arch (Арка дружби народів). 24/7. A huge arch with diameter of 50 m, made out of titanium, with sculptures underneath. It was erected in 1982 for the 60th anniversary of the Soviet Union and 1,500th anniversary of Kyiv city. One of the two sculptures, a bronze statue symbolizing a Ukrainian and Russian worker, was dismantled in 2022 following the Russian invasion. Free.
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra complex
[edit]Note: As of January 2024, the Perchersk Lavra cave system is closed to all visitors, including resident monks, due to a political dispute between the Ukrainian branch of the Russian Orthodox Church and the municipal government. | |
- 9 Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Cave Monastery--Печерська лавра), 9 Lavrska Street (M1 "Arsenalna" is a couple of blocks away from the main entrance; you can take a trolley from the subway station - 2 stops), ☏ +38 44 280-3071. Winter 09:00-18:00, summer 08:00-19:00. One of the oldest and most important monasteries in Ukraine and in the territory of the former Soviet Union. Only the most important monasteries were designated as Lavras; there were only four, of which this Cave Monastery is the oldest. It was founded in 1077 by St Antoniy. The caves were dug out by priests who lived there as hermits. Nowadays, the caves are venerated by the faithful and tourists who visit the mummified monks, and pilgrims are still allowed access to the underground church there. There are two parts to the modern complex: the upper lavra, owned by the state and consisting of a number of museums (entry fee); and the lower lavra, owned by the Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarch) and consisting of the caves (you'll need 1 грн to buy a candle to enter). Do not miss the display of micro-miniatures in the Upper Lavra. It sounds lame, but it is fascinating. You can enter the caves in the lower part if you dress correctly (women must cover their hair and wear skirts, no shorts. Expensive scarves are for sale there). Women can only just get away with pants in the winter. Start at the Lower Lavra, visiting the caves, before the crowds descend for the day. There are two cave complexes, each housing the mummified remains of monks, as well as religious icons and other relics. Both caves are accessed through churches, with the entrance to the shorter caves at the end of a boardwalk. While it is free to enter the caves, you must purchase a taper candle in order to light your way. The caves are not recommended for the claustrophobic or overly tall. Once you're in there, it's hard, even impossible to turn around and go back out - you have to keep going. Without visiting expositions: 3 грн; including visiting exhibitions and guided tour: Adult 50 грн, pupil or student 25 грн.
- Pechersk Lavra fortification (Фортечні мури Києво-Печерської лаври). A system of walls, towers and other constructions built for the protection of the Cave Monastery. The fortifications consist of Upper Lavra: the Southwest Tower, or the tower of Ivan Kuschnik (Вежа Іоанна Кущника); the South Tower (Південна (Годинникова) вежа), or the Horlogium, 1818; the North Tower (Північна (Малярна) вежа), also called the Painting Tower; the East Tower containing the church of Saint Onufry (Онуфріївська вежа), Economic Gate and the Church of All Saints, West Gate Holidays to Holy Trinity Church, South (lower) gate 1792-95; North Gate, 19th century; Eastern Gate, 19th century; Wall with a gate at the Great Lavra Belltower, 18th-early 19th century and a retaining wall terraces with viewing platform. The Lower Lavra fortification parts are: The defensive walls of the Near and Far Caves, 19th century; entrance gate, 1840s; the lower gate at the entrance to the Near and Far caves, 1852-53; Retaining Wall of D. de Boskhuets, 18th century. Belfry Far Caves; Western gate of the lodge, 1883.
- 10 Great Lavra Bell Tower (Велика Лаврська дзвіниця), 15 Lavrska Street. The main bell tower of the ancient cave monastery. Built in 1731–1745. It was designed by the architect Johann Gottfried Schädel. Its total height, with the Christian cross, is 96.5 meters. A neoclassic construction with a total of four tiers, surmounted by a gilded dome. The diameter of the tower's lowest tier at its base is 28.8 m, and the thickness of the first tier walls is 8m. The tower's foundations exceed 7m meters. The tower is decorated with many architectural columns: the second tier with 32 Dorian columns, the third with 16 Ionic columns, and the fourth with 8 Corinthian columns. On the fourth tier there is a chiming clock, made in 1903, which has a total weight of 4.5 tonne.
- 11 Refectory Church (Трапезна Палата), 9 к29 Lavrska Street. A refectory and an adjoining church of Saint Anthony and Theodosius. Built in 1893-1895. The sturdy dome of the church incorporates some aspects of ancient Byzantium. The interior decoration of the building was designed by Aleksey Shchusev. The marble icons are in the Neo-Russian style. The paintings in the refectory and the church, painted in the beginning of the 20th century. In 1973-1977, the Refectory interior was thoroughly renovated.
- 12 Church of the Saviour at Berestovo (Церква Спаса на Берестові), 5 Lavrska Street (Out of the Walls 100 m). Berestovo was a suburban residence in the 11th century. - Its vaulting may have been unusually complicated, probably echoing the trefoil roofing of the porches. The outside of the church formerly displayed intricate brick patterns: double and treble niches, the meander, and decorative crosses.
- 13 Gate Church of the Trinity (Троїцька Надбрамна церква), 9 к27 Lavrska Street (Atop the Holy Gates, which houses the main entrance to the monastery). In 1108 being built as a Kievan Rus' style church, the Gate Church of the Trinity is now decorated in the Ukrainian Baroque style, having been reconstructed many times through its history. Inside: a three-story wooden gilded iconostasis, (1735); a large sixteen-candle chandelier (1725); The church's frescoes were based on Biblical scenes, and the exterior decor was based on Ukrainian folklore, including: "Faces of the Holy Martyr," "The Traders Cast Out of the Temple," and "The Council of Nicaea." Interior frescoes: Allegorical and historical Biblical topics are given in a noncanonical way; some of them are made with Ukrainian national ornaments. Wood-carved chairs, are installed along the western wall. The chairs are covered with oil paintings.
- 14 Near Caves or the Caves of Saint Anthony (Ближні печери), 15 Lavrska Street. Are historic caves and a network of tunnels with a total length of 383 m and depth of 5-20 m with the width reaching 1.5 m and the height 2.5 m. Here is buried the founder of the Cave Monastery of Saint Anthony. Of the three existing entrances to the Near Caves, the original was probably the western one, in which you can enter from the Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. A candle is required to enter the caves. Candles are available for purchase for 3 грн, Free.
- 15 All Saints Church (Всіхсвятська церква), 9 к82 Lavrska Street (Northern part of the complex). Founded in 1696–1698. Its style is Ukrainian baroque. The church facades are richly decorated with architectural elements. In 1905, local artists painted the interior walls of the church. The carved wooden iconostasis is multi-tiered and was made in the early 18th century.
- 16 Far Caves (Дальні печери), 15 Lavrska Street (Southeast corner of the complex). Relics of 49 saints, accompanied by plates with names and icons. The total length of underground corridors is 293 m. There are three underground cave churches: Annunciation, Nativity and Reverend Theodosius.
- 17 Dormition Cathedral (Успенський собор) (Opposite the man entrance (Gate Church)). The main temple of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Built in 1073–78. The cathedral consisted basically of one story built on a cruciform plan with a cupola supported by six columns. It had three naves, which on the outside terminated in many-faced apses. In the 17th century with more cupolas and decorative elements, in the Cossack baroque style were decorated. Inside was decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
- 18 Museum of Historical Treasures of Ukraine (Музей історичних коштовностей України), 9 к12 Lavrska Street. In the Kovnirivskyi building, which was a convent bakery built in the 17th century and reconstructed in 1744-1745. The main facade of buildings made in the same manner as the cell of the Old Cathedral. One of the leading museums of Ukraine and the world, the subject of the exhibition - historical and artistic monuments of precious metals and precious stones. The museum collection includes 56,000 pieces of archeology and applied art. Here you can find the 'Martynivka Treasure' (Мартинівський скарб), which is a hoard consisting of about 120 silver items of 400-900 probe found in Martynivka village (now Cherkasy Oblast) in 1909.
- 19 Book and print history museum (Музей книги та друкарства України), 9 к9 Lavrska Street. W-M 10:00-17:00. The museum contains a rich treasure book culture of the Ukrainian people (about 56 thousand units). The exhibition highlights the story of the book and of books from Kievan Rus to the present day.
- 20 Museum of Ukrainian folk art (Музей народного декоративного мистецтва), 9 к2 Lavrska Street, ☏ +380 44 280-1343. W-M 10:00-18:00. The collection is more than 75,000 works of traditional folk and decorative arts from the 15th to the 20th centuries. It's housed in the former Metropolitan's residence.
- 21 Theatre and Cinematographic Arts Museum (Музей театрального, музичного та кіно-мистецтва України), 9 к26 Lavrska Street, ☏ +380 44 280-1622. There is various documentary material that reveals the formation and development of Ukrainian drama and theatrical presentation. Here are Ukrainian folk musical instruments which afford the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the history of Ukrainian culture, literature and ethnology. The museum has a branch - the house-museum of M.K. Zankovetska, where an exhibition reflects the life and career of the famous Ukrainian actress.
- 22 National Historical Library of Ukraine (Національна історична бібліотека України), 9 к24 Lavrska Street, ☏ +38 44 290-4617. More than 800,000 books, manuscripts and maps.
Other religious buildings
[edit]- 23 St Sophia's Cathedral (Собор Святої Софії), Sofiivska Square (M3 "Zoloti Vorota"). 09:00-16:00. The oldest remaining church in Kyiv. Parts date from the 11th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has the world biggest ensemble of frescoes and mosaics dating from the 11th century, including the Virgin Orans mosaic. Several green-robed ladies maintain order and will shout at you if you look like you are planning to take a photo. The gatehouse and other restorations were completed in the 17th century. Outside the gates, there is a statue commemorating hetman Bohdan Khmelnytskyi, who liberated Kyiv in the 17th century... then gave the city to the Russian Empire. 53 грн for admission to the complex and church (23 грн for children). Additional charges to climb the bell tower, visit the museum and have a guided tour.
- 24 St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery, 8 Trokhsviatytelska Street (a short distance and easily visible from St. Sophia's cathedral). A working monastery that goes back to the 12th century. Destroyed during the Soviet era, with many of its art works hastily removed, some of which were transferred to the museums in Moscow and St Petersburg, some were moved to St Sophia Cathedral. Some mosaics housed in St Sophia subsequently fell into the hands of the Nazis but were returned... to the Hermitage in St Petersburg. Rebuilt in 1997-98. Impressive gold domes, best visited on a sunny day. Behind the complex is a pleasant park with views of the Dnieper and, to the left, the entrance to the funicular.
- 25 St Volodymyr's Cathedral (Патріарший кафедральний собор св. Володимира), 20 Tarasa Shevchenka Boulevard, ☏ +380 44 235-0362. Seven domed Ukrainian Orthodox brick cathedral in neo-Byzantine style, built in the 19th century. It barely escaped demolition by the Soviet authorities. Dome height (outer) 49 m (161 ft).
- 26 St Andrew's Church (Андріївська церква), 23 Andriivskyi Descent (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 278-1221. Closed for restoration since 2011; the best external view is from terrace of War Museum opposite. Baroque church, constructed in 1747–1754. Length 31.7 m (104 ft). Width 20.4 m (67 ft). Height 50 m (160 ft). Both the external and internal decoration on the church was carried out at the same time. Cast iron floor slabs were delivered from Moscow. Also, forms were made for the church's windows, doors, walls, and for space under the cupola. The planned iconostasis, designed by the Italian architect Rastrelli, was also added. The wood for the iconostasis, altar canopy, pulpit, and tsar's place were carved out in Saint Petersburg in order to save time. The iconostasis' icons were carried out by Petersburg artists. For gilding, 1,028 slabs of gold were used in the interior.
- 27 Saint Cyril's Monastery (Кирилівський монастир), 103 к10 Kyrylivska Street (Take to Stadion Spartak stop a tram No.12 or 19 from M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 417-2268. A medieval monastery. Founded in 1140. Reconstructed by the Ukrainian architect Ivan Hryhorovych-Barskyi during 1750–1760. Saint Cyril's Church, including the medieval interior frescoes and the 1880s murals by the famous Russian painter Mikhail Vrubel, were fortunately preserved. The remaining constructions of the complex, the rest of the monastic walls, one corner tower (see picture), and two buildings constructed by Barskyi were also preserved. Of the monastery's cemetery, only two 18th-century graves remained.
Museums
[edit]- 28 Blacksmithing and metalworker's museum (Музей Ковальського та слюсарного мистецтва), 20B Andriivskyi Descent (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha", 10-min walk).
- 29 Literary and Memorial Bulgakov Museum. House of Turbiny (Дім Турбіних. Літературно-меморіальний музей Булгакова), 13 Andriivskyi Descent (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 4253188. Tu Th-Su 10:00-18:00 (ticket office open till 17:00). The legendary Andriyivsky Descent was the street where the great writer lived with his family and where he "lodged" the heroes of his immortal novel "The White Guard". 10 грн, cost of excursion 30 грн per person.
- 30 Chornobyl Museum (Національний музей Чорнобиль), 1 Khoryva Lane (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"; Tram : 12, 14, 18, 19), ☏ +380 44 417-5422. M-F 10:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-17:00. A fascinating and moving museum. No signage in English. The cost of audio-tour in English or German - 50 грн. 10 грн.
- 31 'Cultural wealth of Ukraine' Ukrainian icon museum (Міський музей української ікони "Духовні скарби України"), 12 Desiatynna Street (M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 278-8357. Tu Th Sa Su 11:00-19:00. The exhibition presents about 300 icons late 15th - early 20th century.
- 32 National Museum of History of Ukraine (Національний музей історії України), 2 Volodymyrska Street (M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 278-4864, +380 44 278-65-45. Th-Tu 10:00-17:00. Museum represents different times from ancient till nowadays.
- 33 One Street Museum (Музей однієї вулиці), 2B Andriivskyi Descent, ☏ +380 44 425-0398. The collection of the One Street Museum is dedicated to the history of the Andriyivskyi uzviz (Andrew's Descent) and its famous residents. Tu-Su 12:00-18:00. 20 грн. An excursion in Ukrainian or Russian - 100 грн, in English - 150 грн.
- 34 Museum of the Magdeburg law, Museum of Self-Management of Kyiv (Музей Магдeбурзького права, Музей історії київського самоврядування), 2 Poshtova Square (M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 463-6796. A very interesting permanent exhibition about "On the history of government in Kyiv", devoted to 500th anniversary of providing the city of Magdeburg law.
- 35 Bee-Farming Museum (Музей Бджільництва), 9 Pokrovska Street (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha" or M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"). The museum contains materials on the history of beekeeping, photographs of prominent scientists beekeepers are part of apitherapy.
- 36 Open-Air Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life (Музей народної архітектури та побуту), 1 Akademika Tronka Street (Bus #156 or #172 from M2 "Olimpiiska", M2 "Lybidska" or M2 "Vystavkovyi Tsentr" goes there for 8 грн. About 30-40 minutes), ☏ +380 44 526 5765. Daily. Covering 160 ha, the area shows how people used to live in different parts of Ukraine. Six restored rural Ukrainian villages, with old huts, wooden mills and churches from all over Ukraine have been carefully restored and function as living museums. English-speaking (sort of) guides with expertise on the whole site are available and well worth-it. Ukrainians come on sunny days to relax in the grass.
- 37 Luk'yanivs'ke Cemetery (Лукянівське кладовище), 7 Dorohozhytska Street (M3 "Dorohozhychi"), ☏ +380 44 440-13-22, +380 44 440-14-87. Daily. By the administration building has a museum room, telling stories about the cemetery and its famous "Dwellers".
- 38 Pushkin Museum (Київський музей Пушкіна О.С.), 9 Kudriavska Street (M3 "Lukianivska"). W-M 10:00-17:00. The main part of the museum's collection are exhibits first half of the 19th century - a period called the "Pushkin". Among the most valuable items - books with author signatures of friends and contemporaries Pushkin political writings of famous public figures. The pride of the museum, editions of the works of the poet, including some sections of the novel Eugene Onegin.
- 39 Pedagogical Museum (Педагогічний музей), 57 Volodymyrska Street (M3 "Zoloti Vorota". Across from the building of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine), ☏ +380 44 234-3688, [email protected]. M-F 10:00-17:00, closed 13:00-14:00. Former the meeting place of the Ukrainian Club, Rodyna, and the Ukrainian Scientific Society. The museum of Lenin, which was here until 1982. The first floor of the building now houses the escalators leading to M3 "Zoloti Vorota".
- 40 Golden Gate of Kyiv or Zoloti Vorota (Золоті ворота), 40a Volodymyrska Street (M3 "Zoloti Vorota"), ☏ +380 44 278-6919. Tu 10:00-17:00, W-Su 10:00-18:00, in winter, closed. Built in the 11th century. Destroyed in the 17th century. The rebuilt Golden Gate is a crenelated tower 14 m in height. The entrance way is shielded on one side by a metal-covered portcullis of wood and on the other side by doors patterned.
- 41 Kyiv Fortress also known as the Pechersk Fortress (Київська фортеця), 24a Hospitalna Street (M3 "Klovska" — 1 km, M3 "Palats Sportu" — 1.3 km, trolley No.14 'muzey Kyivska phortetsya' stop, 100 meter). A 19th-century fortification building, that once belonged to the system of western Russian fortresses. Some of the buildings are restored and turned into a museum called the Kyiv Fortress, while others are in use by various military and commercial installations. It is semi-underground.
- 42 The National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War (Національний музей історії України у Другій світовій війні), 24 Lavrska Street, ☏ +38 044 285-94-52, [email protected]. Tu-Su 10:00-17:00. A fairly large museum, starting with World War II, going through Nazi occupation until Ukraine's independence. The museum is at the base of the massive Motherland statue. While the displays are mostly in Ukrainian. The museum has laminated cards in each room with varying languages including English, German and French. The museum also offers guided tours in several languages. 15 грн/adult, 5 грн/student, 1 грн/child, 30 грн to take photos within the museum, 50 грн to take videos for up to 1 hr.
Motherland Statue and war memorials
[edit]Kyiv was pretty much destroyed during the invasion in World War II. The memorial near the motherland statue is pretty gripping. Lots of examples of classic Soviet-era memorial statuary, as well as some amazing exhibits of military hardware. The National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War located in the base of the statue is a must-see for visitors interested in the impact the German invasion had on the Soviet Union. Well worth the visit even if you don't speak or read any Russian or Ukrainian (several English language tours are provided daily). It's well curated and full of artifacts (including weapons, battle maps, hundreds of original photographs, and a moving installation at the end of the exhibit symbolizing the great losses suffered). There is also a small museum of the Afghan conflict nearby. Try to enter coming from the top part of the Pecherska Lavra. This way you get submerged with old soviet music and dark statues. M1 "Arsenalna".
- 43 Babyn Yar Monument (Національний історико-меморіальний заповідник "Бабин Яр", Babi Yar), Dorohozhytska Street (M3 "Dorohozhychi"). A ravine which was the site of massacres of Jews, Gypsies, and other civilians by the Nazis and their local puppets during World War II. Approximately 60,000 civilians were shot dead at this site during the war (over 34,000 Jews in the first two days alone). Now a memorial to Soviet citizens murdered by the Germans.
- 44 German Military graveyard (on the road to Odesa, about 20 km away from Kyiv). About 10,000 German soldiers are buried here, after the battles around Kyiv in 1941 and 1944.
Obolon Raion
[edit]A part of the city on far north. These territories far beyond of its historical neighborhood with the same name. Its current population is 290,000 inhabitants.- The Obolon district encompasses the territories of the former Minsk district and is still sometimes referred to by that name. It also includes the former town of Pushcha-Vodytsia that used to be part of the Podil Raion. The name Obolon comes from the Old-Ukrainian word оболонь → болонь → болоньє (obolon' → bolon' → bolon'ye), which roughly translates as "flood plain" or an area that is being engulfed by water. The district was built up in the 1970s as a microdistrict in Kyiv on the Obolon sands to satisfy the growth of the city. Due to the composition of the soil at the time, the majority of the buildings were at most nine-stories tall, and few trees were planted when compared to other parts of the city. That and few other reasons originally made the district not prestigious. With the second construction period (2000–2005), the district has seen new, comfortable apartment buildings constructed closer to the Dnipro river and has become an attractive residential area. The new apartments are also more expensive, although still cheaper than in the center of Kyiv. The district was connected by M2 in the 1980s, with a station M2 "Obolon" opened on November 5, 1980. Now, here is M2 "Minska" and M2 "Heroiv Dnipra", too.
- Yachting club. This place for kids and adults was opened in around 1990. Many of the Obolon lakes were cleaned up in order to make the area more attractive. The area closer to the Dnieper River is a popular relaxation place for Kyivliany (residents of Kyiv).
- Beer factory Obolon. The area is also well known for the beer factory.
- Revival (Probudzhennia) Church (Пробудження, Церква євангельських християн-баптистів), 2 Levka Lukianenka Street (M2 "Obolon"). This is an evangelic Christians-Baptists church and a missionary center. It was opened in March 2001, with room for 500 seats.
- Intercession Cathedral on the Obolon (Свято-Покровський собор на Оболоні), 5A Pryrichna Street (M2 "Obolon"), ☏ +380 44 411-2000. Built in 1993. The temple complex occupies an area of 2.6 ha.
- 45 Mezhyhirya Residence, Водогін (ДВС), Obolonskyi district. Opulent residence of Ukraine’s deposed Russophile president Viktor Yanukovych, opened for paid tours after he fled the country in 2014. An exhibition of art, religious icons, and decorative objects from Mezhyhirye was displayed by Kyiv's National Art Museum of Ukraine that same year.
- Minsk Square, Obolon (M2 "Obolon", at the intersection of Avenue Red Cossacks (now Moscow Avenue) streets of Novokostyantynivska and Damian Korotchenko (now St. Helena Teligi). In the 1850s-1950s, it was Trinity Square.). Named to Minsk since 1982. Near the square, is a monument to Archangel Michael, the patron saint of Kyiv.
- 46 Pivnichnyi Bridge (Північний міст) (M2 "Pochaina" (1.7km)). This built in 1976. It is a cable-stayed bridge, designed by the architect A.V. Dobrovolsky and an engineer by G.B.Fux, with the beam of the main span being held by a cluster of steel ropes which are fixed to a 115 m tall A-pylon. The bridge consists of two spans: one is 816 m long and 31.4 m wide span across the Dnieper and another which is 732 m long, 29.1 m wide and span across the Desyonka, what is a Dnieper tributary. It is a key structure on the northern end of the Kyiv Smaller Beltway, connecting Petrivka to the densely-populated north-eastern residential neighborhoods. The bridge was built as a part of a high-speed freeway.
- 47 Church of the Nativity (Храм Різдва Христового), 5 Obolonska Naberezhna (M2 "Pochaina" or M2 "Obolon" (1.5 km)). Built the popular architect of Ukraine, V. Isaac, in 2006-2007. - The temple was built in the style of post-modern, cross-dome. The church has five domes, four of them are located over the crossbar of the cross. The Mid-Dome decorated with glass, so that give the impression of transparency. When you see it from the outside, it seems inside is very bright.
- Chapel of the St. Catherine, 10 Polupanova Street (Tram 12, 19 to 'Polupanova St'), ☏ +380 44 5024981. This was a Greek Orthodox Private Chapel. Founded in 1738, when the decree of the Holy Synod was allowed to build a temple. The church was proposed to conduct services for the local Greek community. In 1929, during the Stalinist persecution, a church dedicated to St. Catherine was destroyed. In 2006 the local community was able to arrange a chapel in the newly acquired premises of the Center of Theological Studies.
- 48 Church of the Intercession on the Pryorka (Свято-Покровська церква на Приорці), 2 Mostytska Street (Tram 35 or 36), ☏ +380 44 430 0590. A stone church built in 1902-1906 this was replaced the former wooden 'Dimitriyevskoho' house, what is built in 18th century. The new iconostasis, preserved until today, was built in 1944 and decorated by the famous Ukrainian artist Ivan Izhakevichem. In 1953 the house was made major renovations.
- Church of Peter and Paul on the Kurenivka (Храм Петра та Павла на Куренівці), Petropavlivska Square (Tram 6, 18). The first wooden Church of Saints Peter and Paul Kurenivka, known since 1759 (according to other data - from 1735). Since 1944 the church building used plant, club, galvanic shop and factory. In 1986, the temple was destroyed completely. The new church opened in 2003.
- Krishna's Lucidity 'Big' temple (Товариство Свідомісті Кришни, Великий Храм), 16 Zorianyi Lane, ☏ +380 44 4347028.
- 49 Church of St. Cyril and St. Athanasius the Great, Archbp. of Alexandria and Athanasius (Кирилівська церква, Храм св.Кирила та Афанасія Олександрійських), 103 к10 Kyrylivska Street (M2 "Pochaina" 1.5 km, or M3 "Dorohozhychi" 1.1 km. Mental hospital area. Tram 12, 19 to 'stadion Spartak'). 10:00–17:30. This was established in the 12th century. Dorogozhychi quarter played an important role in the historical destiny of Kyiv. There the fate was solved for many princes pretending to the Kyivan throne on the one hand, and the fate of Kyiv itself, on the other hand. Numerous invaders carried out from here their multiple attacks on Kyiv, and Kyivan princes conducted bloody battles with them. Such a strategic importance of this location became one of the reasons for foundation of a monumental church-fortress. In 1139, Vsevolod Olhovych, Prince of Chernihiv approached Dorogozhychi, an important strategic point, on the Kyiv’s north-western outskirts, gained possession of the area and simultaneously obtained a convenient bridgehead at the approaches to Kyiv. In 1140–1146, Vsevolod Olhovych erects St. Cyril’s Church at Dorogozhychi. Construction of a church-fortress is a logical step of Vsevolod as a prince-worrier, and prince-strategist, for the sake of fortifying outskirts of the “capital city” so desired by many. St. Cyril’s monastery is an example of a unique functional combination, because it is a sacred center, patrimonial palace church, and at the same time it is a monumental church-fortress. The church was named after Cyril, the holy hierarch Cyril of Alexandria — Christian patron of the church’s founder, prince Vsevolod Olhovych. - The most precious treasure of the St. Cyril’s Church is its unique mural painting. - In the 12th century, walls of the St. Cyril’s Church were painted in fresco technique according to the Christian iconographic canons of that time. In the 17th century, the fresco painting of the Church was partially renewed by means of tempera. In the 1800s, during repair of the Church its walls instead of painting were just plastered and whitewashed. - In the 1880s, restoration works were carried out in the Church under the guidance of the professor of St. Petersburg University, A. Prakhov. At that time from under centuries-old layers of plaster and whitewash a unique Old Russian mural painting was discovered. However, soon after, in order to provide the mural painting for “grandeur” the frescoes were refreshed with oil paints. In the 1970s, a large-scale restoration works on frescoes’ discovery from under layer of oil paint of the 19th century were carried out. - Fresco painting: Monumental figures of twelve Apostles are located in window piers of the dome’s drum. Four Evangelists are portrayed on sails (architectural spherical triangles serving for transition from the drum’s cycle to the under-dome square). The representation of the EvangelisMark on the south-eastern sail has preserved the best of all.- Central arches supporting the dome’s drum are decorated with images of theSeban Martyrs placedewithin medallions literally interconnected by means of loops and hoops. These representations form as if “alive holy chain” protecting the celestial sphere. In the central apse there is a figure of the Holy Mother, Orans with her hands raised in prayer. Oil painting of the 19th century represents the major part of the composition; of the ancient fresco representation only an edge of the Holy Mother’s blue chiton and a podium on which she is standing have survived. Beneath the Orans the Eucharist fresco composition is located featuring the scene of the Apostles’ holy communion, in which the Christ is depicted twice: at the left He serves the body of Christ (bread) to the group of Apostles headed by the St. Peter, and at the right He serves the blood of Christ (cup of wine) to the group of Apostles headed by St. Paul. Similar plot depicting two figures of Christ is already known in miniature of Rossan Code in Asia Minor dated with the 6th century. According to the canon which can be recognized already in the Church of San-Vitale in Ravenna, in the St. Cyril’s Church the center of the composition represents a double dome on pillars over the throne onwhich a cross, a paten with seven round flat breads, a cup of wine and an asterisk are placed. - Belfry: Of the monastic buildings Ivan Hryhorovych-Barskyi constructed within the monastery, his most important construction was a free standing belfry, built in 1760. The belfry combined the idea of a tall campanile with a gate on the ground level and a chapel on the belfry's second tier. The two lower levels of the belfry had some elements of a Ukrainian tripartite church, consisting with the belltower placed over the central part of the nave. This architectural combination in a belfry with two apse-like lower elements on each side. The original roof above the belfry's chapel was a stepped-hipped roof, which was popular at the time. After the fire of 1849, the roof's over the chapel and the cupola were modified from the original. After the Ukrainian SSR's decision on the demolition of the belfry in 1936, the belfry was destroyed a year later, to be used as bricks in construction projects.
- 50 Firefighting museum (Музей пожежної справи), 6 Heroyiv polku "Azov" Street, ☏ +380 44 418 3502.
Podil Raion
[edit]This is a historic neighborhood and an administrative raion (district) in Kyiv. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Kyiv, the birthplace of the city's trade, commerce and industry. It still contains many architectural and historical landmarks, and new archaeological sites are still being revealed. Numerous attractions of Podil particularly include: Frolivskyi and Pokrovskyi Convents, National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, House of Ivan Mazepa, House of Peter the Great, Fountain of Samson, Zamkova Hora hill, Andriyivskyy Descent — the main link of Podil to the city's administrative Uppertown, Borychiv Descent, Kyiv River Port, Kyiv funicular, Poshtova Square, and the Kontraktova Square. Modern Podilskyi Raion, despite its tourism and culture importance, remains one of Kyiv's main business, transportation and industrial districts.
- Temple in honor the icon of the Mother of God Vsetsarytsia-Pantanassa (Храм на честь ікони Божої Матері Всецариця-Пантанасса), 1 Ryzka Street.
- 51 M2 "Tarasa Shevchenka" (Тараса Шевченка). This is a station on Kyiv Metro's Kurenivsko-Chervonoarmiyska Line. The station was opened on December 19, 1980 in the northern part of the historic Podil neighborhood and is named after the famous Ukrainian poet, writer, and painter, Taras Shevchenko. It was designed by T.A. Tselikovska, A.S. Krushynskyi, and A. Pratsiuk. The station is located shallow underground and consists of a central hall with rectangular marble pillars. The walls along the tracks have been finished with dark red marble and ceramic tiles with a plant motif. The lighting comes from large round lamps hanging from the ceiling. At the end of the hall is a white stone bust of Taras Shevchenko, surrounded through the same plant motif that is located on the station's walls. The station is accessible by passenger tunnels on the Mezhyhirska and the Olenivska Streets
- 52 Ascension Convent (Вознесенський Флорівський жіночий монастир), 8 Frolivska Street (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha"), ☏ +380 44 4250181. Originated in the 16th century as the wooden church of Sts. Florus and Laurus. Its buildings occupy the slopes of the Zamkova Hora. - The main church, or katholikon, is a notable example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture. Its first stone was laid in 1722. Ten years later, the three-domed building was dedicated to the feast of the Ascension of Christ. Its Neoclassical bell-tower is of later construction. The wooden buildings of the monastery were entirely destroyed by fire in 1811. Only the katholikon and a 17th-century refectory were left standing amid the ashes. It was Andrey Melensky, a Neoclassical architect from Kyiv, who was in charge of the convent's reconstruction. The convent's notable residents included Princess Natalia Dolgorukova, one of the first Russian women writers. It was closed in 1929 but reopened after the Germans entered the city in 1941.
- 53 National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (Національний університет «Києво-Могилянська академія») (M2 "Kontraktova Ploscha" 300 m SE). Motto in English: "Time is running, Academy is eternal". The library of the old Kyiv Mohyla Academy contained a notable collection of the books. However, the archive was plundered in the 1920s when the academy was closed. - The Halshka Hulevychivna house belonging to the university is the oldest civil building in Kyiv.
- 54 House of Ivan Mazepa, 16B Spaska Street.
- House of Peter the Great.
- 55 Fountain of Samson (Фонта́н Самсо́н).
- 56 Zamkova Hora hill.
- Gostynnyi Dvir.
Further afield
[edit]- 57 Bila Tserkva (uk:Біла Церква) (85 km S of Kyiv). For more, see Central Ukraine
- 58 Fastiv (72km SW). For more, see Central Ukraine
- 59 Kaniv (150km SE). Possible visit like a day tour. For more, see Central Ukraine
- 60 Pereyaslav (Переяслав) (85km SE). Excellent "skansen" or outdoor folk museum, easily done as a day-trip from central Kyiv. For more, see Central Ukraine
- 61 Vyshhorod (uk:Вишгород) (21km N). A summer winter resort. For more, see Central Ukraine
Do
[edit]- 1 Podil (M2 "Poshtova Ploscha"). Stroll around. Start at St Michael's Cathedral in the Upper Town. Catch the funicular behind it down to Poshtova Ploscha, and wander around the grid-like streets of Podil. The area was the merchant's quarter, and was completely rebuilt in the 19th century after fires destroyed the area. It was mainly untouched during WWII and is emerging as a hip restaurant district and is rapidly being gentrified. Finish your stroll by walking up Andriyivsky Uzviz, which will get you back to St Michael's Cathedral.
- 2 On the weekend, go and people watch on Khreshchatyk. Start at Ukrainskykh Heroiv Square and head underground. Walk through the Metrograd shopping center, always sticking to your left. Head above-ground at Tarasa Shevchenka Boulevard (бульвар Тараса Шевченка), from where the council shuts down Khreshchatyk on the weekends. Walking up the street to Maidan, you will be treated to the sight of numerous street performers and animal handlers, or you can simply enjoy seeing families out and about for a weekend stroll.
- Go to church, even if you'd never do so at home: Orthodox services are strangely moving even to unbelievers. They are also mighty long and there are few if any seats in church, but it's perfectly acceptable to come and go as you please, as locals do. Women must cover their heads before entering the church. Pick any church you please, but St Volodomyr's (on Tarasa Shevchenka Blvd, listed above) is a good choice.
Parks and gardens
[edit]- 3 Hydropark (M1 "Hidropark"). Island in the Dnieper River. Kyiv is endowed with natural city beaches that line Dnieper. Many a summer day can be spent in the parks and on the beaches of the islands, where you can buy shashlyk from stalls, play beach volleyball, swim in the river or in the pools on the island, or just soak up the sun.
- 4 Syretska arboretum (Сирецький дендрологічний парк), 43 Tyraspolska Street (M3 "Syrets"), ☏ +380 44 227 8247, [email protected]. 08:00-17:00. Different kinds of trees and shrubs on 6.5 hectares. It is a park-monument of landscape art of national importance - it is, above all, diverse flora (900 species). And an extensive opportunity for recreation and harmonious unity with nature.
- 5 Kyiv Zoo (Київський Зоопарк), 32 Beresteiskyi Avenue (M1 "Politekhnichnyi Instytut"), ☏ +380 44 2744769. 09:00-18:00 summer, 09:00-16:00 winter. Situated on about 40 hectares. The zoo has 2,600 animals from 328 species. 130 different kinds of trees and bushes decorate the zoo's lands.
- 6 Mamaeva Sloboda open-air museum (Центр народознавства Мамаєва Слобода), 2 Mykhaila Dontsia Street (7 km west from center, take a trolley No.27, 27 K (from M2 "Pochaina" or M1 "Shuliavska")). 10:00-18:00. A theme park on the 9.2 hectares site and represent a full replica of a historical settlement depicting Ukrainian nature, architecture and the way of life. The architectural ensemble, which consists of 98 units. 100 грн, Photography - 10 грн.