The Churches of Kiev
Building a place for worship is what human beings have proven to be particularly good at. For centuries we have exhibited our ability to create some of the most breathtaking architectures that serve as places for adoration. Different religions and faiths have continually created magnificent foundations where people can pray and be at peace.
Churches are not just places for worship—they are architectural wonders, a sign of man’s devotion, places built out of love and beauty. All over the world, in most towns and cities, there are different kinds of churches that serve as testaments to man’s praise for higher beings.
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Kiev, the capital city of Ukraine, has its share of some of the world’s most historical and most beautiful churches. A trip to this country will always involve going around these significant religious landmarks, and visitors will definitely get to learn so much about history. When visiting this city in Ukraine, make sure that you visit its churches, as it is a great way to learn and appreciate the country’s unique culture.
Below are some of the churches in Kiev that you must not miss.
St. Sophia’s Cathedral
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most famous church destinations in the country. Built sometime in 1037, this cathedral reportedly took twenty years to be fully completed. This cathedral complex is massive, so you’ll be able to explore so much treasures during your visit. Do not miss the Bell Tower, the Refectory Church, and the House of Metropolitan.
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St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery
At the right bank of the Dnieper River lies this unique monastery of St Michael’s. Built during the Middle Ages, this place still stands and continues to provide awe to all visitors. The golden domes are just beautiful, and the architecture (which has combined Byzantine and Baroque influences) is simply like no other. This place is just near the St. Sophia’s Cathedral, so you will not have difficulty getting here.
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St. Andrew’s Church
Overlooking the neighborhood of Podil is this famous Ukrainian landmark. This was designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, a well-known and influential architect (he was the same person behind the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg in Russia).
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Kiev Pechersk Lavra
This Orthodox Christian monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that you must not miss when you’re in Kiev. Also known as the Monastery of the Caves, this place is home to many significant religious structures. The spots that you must not miss are the caverns, the Gate Church of the Trinity, and of course, the stunning Great Lavra Belltower.
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St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral
This is the church that you must visit if you’re a fan of grand and beautiful interiors. Considered as the “Mother Cathedral” of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate (major Orthodox churches in the country), this place is home to breathtaking mosaics, frescoes, and religious icons. This is also known as the St. Vladimir’s Cathedral, and you will not have a difficult time finding it, for it has an outstanding yellow, white, gold, and blue facade.
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