Everything You Need to Know About Kyiv
Kyiv: the capital of freedom. Join us in unravelling the history of Kyiv, showcasing its iconic landmarks, and uncovering the significance of its geographical location. From its rich cultural heritage to its modern developments, here is everything you need to know about Kyiv.
History
Історія
The history of Kyiv stretches back over 1,500 years, making it one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. Its roots trace back to the 5th century when it served as a vital trade centre for East Slavic tribes. Throughout the centuries, Kyiv experienced periods of independence and domination by various groups, including the Mongols, Lithuanians, and russians. However, it was during the Kyivan Rus’ civilisation that the city flourished as a major political, religious, and cultural hub in Europe.
Location
Розташування Києва
The city of Kyiv is in north-central Ukraine, situated along the Dnipro River. It is not to be confused with Kyiv Oblast, which is in a similar region but does not include the capital city as it is administered as a ‘city with special status’!
Did you know that Kyiv has 16 developed, and very popular, beaches? The city has 75km of sandy beaches and some of the most popular, safety-certified ones include: Dytyachuy, Venice Beach, and Golden Beach.
Why is it 'Kyiv' and not 'Kiev'?
Писати «Kyiv», а не «Kiev». Чому це важливо
You may remember seeing the city spelled as Kiev, but in recent times this has undergone an important change. Kyiv might seem difficult to pronounce, but you can say it like Kee-Yeev.
In fact, in 1995 Ukraine’s parliament adopted Kyiv as the official romanised spelling for use in legislation and acts. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also launched the “KyivNotKiev” initiative in 2019, which is part of the campaign “CorrectUA“, promoting spelling closer to the correct transliteration of the Ukrainian language.
Main landmarks and sights
Головні пам'ятки Києва
Kyiv is brimming with cultural and historical heritage, from monuments and statues, to centuries-old cathedrals and gardens. Whilst we cannot cover everything in this post, let’s take a look at some of the most iconic.
Maidan (Freedom) Square | Майдан Незалежност
Maidan Square is the central square in the city and is often simply referred to as Maidan. Overlooking the square is the Independence Monument, Монумент Незалежності, which commemorates Ukrainian Independence in 1991. The square is often the site for political demonstrations, most notably the 2014 Revolution of Dignity.
The Motherland Monument | Батьківщина-Мати
The Motherland Monument is a 203ft, stainless steel statue in Kyiv. The right hand holds a sword, and the left a shield with the hammer and sickle emblem of the Soviet Union. Despite the Ukrainian government banning Soviet-era monuments, symbols, and street names back in 2015, the Motherland Monument remains due to its status as a WWII monument. However, in May 2023 the Government confirmed plans to replace the hammer and sickle with the Ukrainian Tryzub.
St Sophia Cathedral | Собор святої Софії
St Sophia Cathedral is a monument from the time of Kyiv and Rus’. The former cathedral is inscribed on the World Heritage List, and you can find the official website here.
St Andrew's Church | Андріївська церква
St Andrew’s Church is an Orthodox church located on the right bank of the Dnieper River. It was constructed between 1747 and 1754 by an Italian architect, and is one of the rare examples of Baroque architecture in Ukraine. Fun fact: the Church is situated on the hill where Andrew the Apostle is believed to have foretold the great future of the place as the cradle of Christianity in the Slavic lands.
Kyiv Day
День Києва
Kyiv Day (Day of Kyiv) is the official holiday celebrating Ukraine’s capital city. It typically takes place on the last Sunday in May and has done since 1982, the year which marked the 1500th year anniversary of the city.
Celebrations usually take place across the city for the whole weekend, and in the past included street and various outdoor performances, cultural exhibits, firework displays, and a large concert on the Saturday night.
Have you ever visited Kyiv?
Ви бували в Києві?
If you’ve ever visited the capital city, let us know your favourite places to explore in the comments below!
