A very quick introduction
A quick fact-based intro to Kiev and its attractions:
Many cities are bigger, older, and richer than Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, but Kiev has a beauty and uniqueness that draw visitors more and more often. Kiev’s beauty is due in large part to its location on the Dnieper River along with the magnificent architecture that covers 1500 years of history. These architectural masterpieces as well as historic monuments, churches, and museums make a long lasting impression on those who visit.
Perhaps the best way to start a visit to Kiev is with a walking tour of the top sights, so many of which are within easy walking distance of each other. Some of the fabulous sights that make Kiev famous that you may see on your walk include St. Sofia’s Cathedral.
Built in 1037, this is Kiev’s oldest church. The church is most famously characterized by the thirteen golden domes that stand out in Kiev’s skyline. There is also the very ornate gold-topped dome belonging to the Bell Tower at St. Sofia’s. Inside the church are a number of 11th century mosaics and frescoes and much of the original Byzantine interior is still undamaged.
Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Caves Monastery) – Founded in 1077 by St. Antoniy, this monastery was named a “lavra”, a designation given only to the most important monasteries. This monastery was originally founded in the caves that overlook the Dniepro River, and later a wooden monastery was built over the top of the caves. Today, these caves contain relics of the saints.
The Museum of the Great Patriotic War – This is a large complex of buildings built as a memorial to commemorate Ukraine’s part in WWII when the Nazis were responsible for cutting the population of Kiev in half. It has over 300,000 exhibits and is topped by the 203-foot tall Motherland Statue. You can take an elevator to the top of this majestic titanium figure.
The Golden Gate – The Golden Gate is a fortification that was built in the early 11th century to be the main entrance into the city. Today, it is the entryway into the old city and houses a museum holding the city’s most prized possession and depicting its history.
Kiev is a city that is dedicated to the preservation of its past. Other interesting things to see in Kiev include The Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life and the Babiy Yar, the ravine where thousands of Jews, Gypsies, and other citizens were massacred by the Nazis during WWII.
Although Kiev has a dark past, it is still a great place to visit when looking for budget holidays.
Feel free to ask a question or leave a reply!
