Khreschatyk street and Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square)

The main and most popular street in the city, Khreschatyk was reconstructed several times and is now one of the most beautiful places in the capital. Khreschatyk combines the features of a vital business center with the charming historic and architectural scent of the 19th century. The street leads to the main square of the city, Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square), that, since 2004 became the center of all breakpoint milestone events in the history of modern Ukraine, including Orange Revolution in 2004 and the Revolution of Honor in 2014, and , thus, a symbol of Ukrainian Independence. After tragic events of the 20^th of January 2014 when over 100 civilians were killed during the Revolution of Honor, widely known as EuroMaidan, Maidan Nezalezhnosti hosts a huge memorial with photos of those who perished, placed all along “Geroyev Nebesnoy Sotni” street (street of Heavenly Hundred). For Kievites, Maidan Nezalezhnosti, that before 2014 was widely treated as a place of light joy and entertainment, house of street music in the underground passageway, known as “Truba”, meeting point with friends, source of new positive emotions, changed forever with its new sense of sadness brought by all the grave events that happened.

Maidan Nezalezhnosti is definitely one of main Kyiv must sees.

On weekends Khreschatyk turns into a pedestrian zone and people can stroll right down the middle of the street. Nightlife on Khreschatyk, with its wide range of emotions, will only complement your daily impressions of the city.

Andriyivsky Uzviz

Andriyivvsky Uzviz (St. Andrew’s Decsent) is known for its bohemian atmosphere. Whatever the weather is like , you can always see artists displaying their works there. It is the best place to buy souvenirs made by Ukrainian craftsmen. Andriyivskiy Uzviz has become a traditional place for fairs, festivals, concerts and Days of Kyiv. Many museums and art galleries tell the history of this legendary street, as well as of all Kyiv. Numerous shops, studios and cafes – everything you find here – is absolutely perfect for a good rest.

The main adornment of the street is St. Andrew’s Church. It was designed by the famous Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli and is a wonderful example of the 17^th century Baroque architecture. Especially valuable is the interior, boasting numerous carvings and iconostasis painting.

Statue to Prince Volodymyr the Baptist

One the slope of Volodymyrska Hirka (Hill) overlooking the Dnipro River is a monument to Grand Prince Volodymyr, who is also called the Baptizer of Rus. It was he who introduced Christianity to Kyiv Rus in 988 a.d. The bronze statue of Grand Prince Volodymyr was erected in 1853.

Golden Gate

The Gate was the main part of the city’s fortification complex built in 1037. The complex marked the borders of old Kyiv during the time of Grand Prince Yaroslav. For centuries it served as a line of defense against many enemies. This important historical landmark was rebuilt in 1983. Today it houses the Golden Gate Museum, which is open to everyone eager to find out how the atmosphere of Medieval Rus left like.

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery

The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery, that is included into UNESCO World Heritage shrines’ list, is one of the oldest monasteries of Kyiv Rus. It is the most sacred place in the city, the spiritual center of Ukraine and a second Jerusalem for Orthodox Christians. The Lavra was built more than a thousand years ago over a labyrinth of caves. The first temples were located underground. Later on, golden-domed temples were built above the caves, while the miles-long caves were turned into a necropolis for Orthodox saints. The shades of the underground vaults shelter 123 saints, who have been resting in glass coffins for many centuries. Today their relics are worshiped by thousands of Orthodox Christians from all over the world. Scholars fail to explain how human bodies defeat time and don’t decay without being embalmed. Even the most hard-nosed materialists have to admin the possibility of a spiritual interpretation of this phenomenon. Another phenomenon is the unique old frescos preserved on the walls of the labyrinth.

St. Sophia’s Cathedral

Scholars say that St. Sophia’s Cathedral of Kyiv is a perfect example of the synthesis of art reflecting the glory and majesty of Kyiv Rus. Kyiv’s St. Sophia ensemble is included into the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites. Built in the 11^th century according to the order of Grand Prince Yaroslav the Wise, Kyiv’s Sophia was the spiritual , political, social and cultural development center of Kyiv Rus. This was where Kyiv’s princes were crowned, foreign ambassadors were received and important interstate treaties were signed. It is here that Grand Prince Yaroslav founded the first library in this part of the world. Sophia also served as a burial place. The sarcophagus of Yaroslav the Wise is still kept at the cathedral. Grand Prince Yaroslav is a prominent figure in the history of Kyiv Rus. He was the one who established close dynastic relations with leading European countries of the time. His daughter Anne became the Queen of France (Anne de Russie) in the 1050s. Her statue is still one of the main decorations of the Alexander Bridge in Paris. \

Mykhailivsky Zolotoverhy Cathedral

Reconstruction of the Mykhaylivsky Zolotoverkhy (St. Michael’s Golden-Domed) Cathedral has become a symbol of true spiritual recovery in Ukraine. The original building of the Cathedral, destroyed during Soviet era, since the 12^th century inspired warriors to defend Kyiv Rus from foreign invaders. However, the Cathedral was demolished during the atheistic campaigns of the Communist regime during the 1930^th. In 2000-2001, the careful hands of Ukrainian architects reconstructed the cathedral in strict compliance with and respect to the old design. Today it entices and enchants thousands of visitors on a daily basis with its original beauty.

Monument to Princes Olha

Grand Princess Olha ruled the state of Kyiv Rus during the period of 945 – 964 a.d. Olha was a wise and proactive ruler who managed to rearrange the previously separated Rus lands into a well-organized prosperous state. Olha was the first ruler to adopt Christianity in Rus. Princess Olha’s statue is flanked by the figures of the Apostle Andrew the First and the great ancient scholars Cyril and Methodius, credited with developing the modern-day Cyrillic alphabet.

St. Nicolas’ Roman Church

The Church was constructed during the period of 1899-1909 by prominent Kyiv architect Vladyslav Horodetsky. This magnificent architectural masterpiece, built in traditional Gothic style, stands out from the architectural ensemble of the nearby buildings and can right away recognized by its two-needle-like towers stretching to the sky. Today it serves as a functioning Catholic church as well as a concert hall that welcomes everyone who admires organ music.

St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral

Constructed in 1882, this Orthodox Church carries features of the Neo-Byzantine architecture style. The interior, decorated by famous local and foreign artists, has considerable artistic value. Great Venetian masters laid out the mosaics. However, the most fantastic thing about the cathedral is its choral singing – something we strongly recommend not to miss.

Mariyinsky Palace

The palace of blue and cream in the midst of a wonderful park was constructed in 1750 as per the designs of famous Italian architect Rastrelli as Kyiv residence for the Russian royal family. Today, it is an official venue for government receptions, presidential meetings and international conferences. It is here that state awards are presented. Mariyinskiy Palace is also open to group tourist visits.

Architect Horodetsky’s Chimera House

This building, located in a lovely part of the city center of Kyiv, is definitely among the most interesting in Kyiv. It was built by architect Vladyslav Horodetsky in the Modernist style. The front and the roof of the mansion are decorated with statues of animals, mystical figures and hunting elements. The entire architectural composition captivates onlookers with its perfection and plunges viewers into a world of fantasy.

National Ballet and Opera House

Opened in 1901, this temple of music has been attracting viewers with the skillful performances of renowned operas for more than a hundred years. The Italians Verdi, Puccini and Rossini take the lead in the repertoire. The orchestra plays with inspiration; shows in the National Ballet and Opera House in Kyiv are always performed with virtuosity. Here opera connoisseurs can enjoy the original lyrical and coloratura soprano of Prima Donna Maria Stefiuk, known not only here but also at Italy’s La Scala.

National Philharmonic Society

Built in 1882 and reconstructed in early 2010th , the Hall has no rival in Kyiv in terms of its acoustic qualities. Admires of symphonic and chamber music can enjoy the pleasure of concerts performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra and classical music festivals.

National Museum of Ukraine in the 2nd World War

National Museum of History of Ukraine in the Second World War with its impressive massive 62 m tall titanium statue of Motherland, grasping a 12-ton sword and a shield. The Motherland Monument is one of the visiting cards of Kyiv. The sculpture is a part of the museum, symbolizing the feat accomplished by people during the war. The author of the monument is sculptor Vasyl Borodai. A huge number of sculptors, architects, scientists and different kinds of workers took part in creating of this building. The idea and the decision to create a museum of the War appeared in June 1943, in the middle of the battle for liberation of Ukraine of Nazi invaders. However, other priority issues, like reconstruction and development of the economy and social issues postponed the implementation of this decision till mid-1970s of the previous century. Focus on the Ukrainian factor in the exposition, interpretation of history of the largest military conflict of the 20th century without straightness and simplicity, the expansion of all forms of the museum activities, social and political realities have become the definite reasons that actualized the change of the name of the museum. The institution was renamed as a National Museum of History of Ukraine in the Second World War (former name being World War II museum) by the Decree of the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine on 16th July, 2015. The staff of the National Museum continues active work focusing all activities on the humanitarian dimension of the global war tragedy.

Museum of Folk Architecture and Everyday Life

The open-air Museum of Folk Architecture and Everyday Life in the village of Pyrohiv displays more than 150 wooden constructions representing different eras and brought from all regions of Ukraine. The museum is a popular site for various folk festivals.

Boat Trip along the Dnipro River

In summer, don’t miss the wonderful opportunity to observe the old Kyiv and listen to the music of the Dnipro waves. The golden domes of St. Andrew’s Church, the Kyiv Pechers Lavra and the monumental steel statues of the Motherland will pass by your eyes. Regardless of the weather Dnipro boat trip with Arktur will be an unforgettable experience. Boats depart from Kyiv River Port every hour during the season time (navigation on the Dnipro is open from April till early October).

St. Kirill's Chirch

St Kirill's Church is one of shrines of Kyiv together with St Sophia Cathedral. This is one of the oldest churches of the Kyiv, with its history dating back to over 1000 years ago. These days St Kirill's Church is a part of St Sohipa Cathedral reserve and is not only an active church but also a museum, protected by UNESCO. The foundation of the church began in 1139 A.D. under the rule of Prince Vsevolod. During its existance, that lasts for over 9 centuries, St Andrew Church was under constant threat of destruction. The frescoes of St Kirill's Church, that occupy 800 square meters space of the interior area of the church,  are truelly a wonder and are considered to be the main treasure of this wonderful location.