As Ukraine’s capital city, Kiev is one of the largest and most vibrant political, economical and cultural centres in the whole of Eastern Europe. Situated on the scenic banks of the winding Dnepr River, Kiev is home to some of Europe’s most stunning architecture, theatres and art galleries, not to mention a diverse population of over 3 million people.
Referred to as ‘the mother of all cities’ by inhabitants of Russia and Ukraine, Kiev is one of Europe’s oldest settlements and, unsurprisingly, is stepped in a rich sense of history. Take, for instance, the remarkable Cathedral of St. Sophia, with its stunningly intricate mosaics and frescoes, dating all the way back to the 11th Century, or the city’s unique ‘Golden Gate.’ This monolithic structure built in 1024 provided a doorway to the city that, fortunately for those inside, marauding hordes of nomadic tribes found utterly impregnable.
Those wanting to take in some of Ukraine’s history should, after taking a tour of the city’s magnificent sights, drop into some the city’s museums and galleries. The ARTEast gallery, for example, boasts the finest art collection in the entire country and the Ukrainian Museum of Historical Treasures plays host to an array of fascinating exhibits.
Whilst Kiev’s beautiful historical trappings are undoubtedly alluring, it’s easy to forget that Kiev is every inch the modern city, boasting a wide range of cultural and recreational offerings rooted firmly in the 21st Century. Just look at the Cherny Kvadrat, or Black Square, home to an extensive range of innovative, often avant-garde forms of theatrical art. Then there’s the city’s huge range of nightclubs, from underground nightspots such as ‘Magma’, to casino clubs like ‘Maximym’. At ‘Ganesha’ visitors can even dance into the early hours of the morning in a club with the feel of an Indian temple!
However, for those who want to sample the city’s modernity at a more leisurely pace and partake of some retail therapy there is the truly vast ‘City Centre’ shopping mall, known by the locals as ‘The City Within The City.’ With over forty stores, including a great number of boutiques carrying the wares of some of Europe’s most celebrated fashion houses, you’re sure to find something to your taste. As with the city itself, there’s something for everyone.