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Kiev Sights and Landmarks Guide, Ukraine

A major cultural and economic centre in Eastern Europe, with a population surpassing 2.6 million, Kiev is the capital of Ukraine. Situated on the Dnieper River, which flows through Belarus and Russia, and passes by many Ukrainian major cities (Kremenchuk, Zaporozhye, Dnepropetrovsk) Kiev occupies a strategic position in this part of Europe. Kiev never fails to attract tourists with its numerous historic sites, old churches, green areas and architectural monuments.

Kiev Sights – Historic Landmarks and Museums

There is much to learn about Ukrainian culture just by visiting the National Art Museum of Ukraine. Built in 1989 in a Classic style, the building is hosting precious art pieces belonging to Ukrainian artists from different periods, from folk to contemporary artists. The Museum of Folk Architecture and Life in Ukraine, an outdoor display of traditional architecture, spreads over 1 square mile. Also, the World War II Museum guides visitors through an interesting inventory of military equipment and techniques. The Golden Gate, a fortified wall that is now a museum, represents Kiev’s centuries of existence and struggle. The Babiy Yar monument commemorates the victims of the Jewish pogrom that took place under Nazi invasion. Another important landmark is the Askhold grave, a reminder of Ukraine’s glorious times during the Kievan Rus’.

Kiev Sights – Cultural Attractions

Many of Kiev sights are represented by its diverse architecture: the House with Chimeras, Kiev Fortress, St. Vladimir Cathedral, St. Sofia Cathedral, Cyril Church, Mariinsky Palace, St. Nicholas Catholic Church or the National Opera. Kiev Pechersk Lavra is a unique monastery built upon a complex of caves, now included in UNESCO patrimony. The famous writer Mikhail Bulgakov was a Kiev native, and his memorial house is today opened for visitors. Kiev is especially famous for its ballet companies, so attending a theatre, opera or ballet representation is a must for anyone willing to discover the true spirit of Ukraine. Cultural institutions include: October Pallace, National Philarmonic, Kiev Opera House, Academic Theatre of Drama and Comedy or the experimental theatre center Cherny Kvadrat.

Kiev Sights – Parks and Public Places

The list of Kiev sights continues with its multitude of green oasis, like the Central Botanical Garden, Park Slavi, Victory Park or Trukhanov Ostrov. The Kiev Zoo and the Hydropark are perfect spots for some family fun, not to mention children’s favorite, the Children’s Railway. Visiting Kiev also implies a lot of walking, especially along the city’s old districts and streets, including Andreevsky Spursk, Kreschatik, Podol and, of course, Kiev’s main square, Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square). Another original way to experience the Ukrainian lifestyle and get accustomed with some traditional dishes is to go shopping in one of Kiev’s farmers markets, like Besarabsky Market (located in downtown Kiev).