Kyivo-Pecherska Lavra

The Dnipro hills are dominated by the greatest monument of Kyiv, the Kyivo-Pecherska Lavra, built almost nine centuries ago. A complex of churches, masterpieces of architecture by themselves, has been a holy place of worship for devoted Christians. Famous for its catacombs with the saints' relics, Lavra is also called the Monastery of Caves. Museum collections of miniatures and church treasures amaze visitors from all over the world

National Opera House

The theater is located in downtown Kyiv, near the Khreschatyk street. The beautiful exterior of the building is supported by the majestic interior design. Much of the theater's creative efforts are concentrated on productions of classical Ukrainian and Russian operas and ballets. Professional actors, creative lighting, and bright decorations leave the most memorable impression about Ukraine's dramatic art.

St. Nicolas Catholic Cathedral

The cathedral was built in 1899-1909 by the architect Horotetskyi. The building is placed on one of the central streets (Chervonoarmiyska st.), and it can be easily recognized by its distinctive Gothic style and a pair of beautiful needle towers. It was restored in 1980 and now is used as both the concert hall for organ music and the church where Roman Catholic services are held

Golden Gate

This fortified wall, defining the limits of the city and serving as a protective barrier from invaders in the centuries past, dates back to 1037, the reign of Prince Yaroslav the Wise. The place was restored to its present condition in 1983, and it now serves as the Golden Gate historical museum. The structure is located in downtown Kyiv, just outside the Zoloti Vorota metro station.

St. Sophia Cathedral

St. Sophia's thirteen gorgeous golden domes nicely blend with the city skyline. The grandiose ensemble was built by Prince Yaroslav the Wise in the XI century in commemoration of the victory over the Pecheneg tribe. The cathedral became a major cultural and political centre of Kyivan Rus and a site for receiving ambassadors from many countries. St. Sophia is famous for its outstanding mosaics and frescoes dating back to the eleventh century.

Mariyinsky Palace

The gorgeous blue-and-cream palace designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli was built in 1750 under the supervision of Russian architect Ivan Michurin and is located on top of the hill in a beautiful park. The magnificent building was used as Kyiv residence of the Tsar family. Today the palace is used for official state receptions such as presidential meetings and international conferences. It is open to tourist groups by appointment as well.

Date: 2015-12-24; view: 789