""Ancient Kyiv"

Hostel-tour

(three-hours tour)

Kyiv's history began about 1500 years ago. "Tale of the Bygone years" reports that 3 brothers and their only sister were its founders. They established a small town in honor of their eldest brother - Kyi and named it Kyiv. Kyiv is called "The mother of Rus' towns"! Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is famous for its rich and varied culture and traditions, architectural masterpieces, the beauty of its various historical monuments of XI-XVII centuries, old churches and cathedrals, palaces, green parks… Objects: Old-Kyiv mountain, Andrew's Descent, St. Sophia Cathedral, National Opera House, St. Volodymyr Cathedral, National Taras Shevchenko University, main street Khreschatik, Independence square, Podol, Kyiv-Mogila Academy, Ascold's grave, Park of Glory, Mariyinsky Palace, European square, a walk along the Dnipro River Wharf and others. Andrew's Descent One of the most beautiful streets in Kyiv, the Uzviz joins the two oldest parts of the city - the Upper City and Podil. The street is built up with the buildings of XIX-XX century's boundary. In its upper part the most elegant Kyiv's temples is situated - Andrew's Church. Below, there are museums, souvenir shops. Artists, as well as masters of other genres, are able to sell the products of their artistry from stands and stalls in the open air. Andriyivs'ky Uzviz is often compared to Montmartre in Paris or the Arbat in Moscow. The names of famous cultural workers of the past are connected to this street. St. Sophia Cathedral Included in the UNESCO World Heritage Register, the church was raised by Prince Yaroslav, the Wise c. 1037. The interior was decorated with mosaics. However, of the original 640square meters, only 260 square meters have survived. In the center of the composition, the mighty image of Christ Pantocrator, is situated inside the main dome. The mosaic of the Virgin Oranta, the Eucharistia composition and the depiction of the Fathers of the Church are well preserved. In 1685-1707 St. Sophia Cathedral was reconstructed in Baroque style. Yaroslav, the Wise, and his wife Irina were buried here National Taras Shevchenko University This is most prestigious educational institution of Ukraine. Founded in 1834. The main building, constructed in 1837-1842, was designed by architect V. Beretti in style of Russian classicism. The red color of the facade with black components of columns and eaves conform to the colors of the banner of the Order of St. Volodymyr, whose name was initially given to the University. In 1939 the University was renamed for Taras Shevchenko. Mariyinsky Palace Erected in 1752-1770, the palace was founded on command of Empress Yelizaveta for sojourn of her court during of imperial visits to Kyiv. The palace was rebuilt in 1870 with the active participation of Empress Maria Alexandrovna. Nowadays the palace is an official residence of the President of Ukraine. Maydan Nezalezhnosti (Independence square) The main square of Kyiv and at the same time the most favorite place for youth. Those looking for simpler pleasures can just grab a beer and search desperately for a free place to sit near Maidan's many fountains. Those who like shopping can enjoy huge modern underground "Globus" Shopping Center with several tens of the most exclusive stores and cafes! Also visit the Museum of Orange Revolution which was opened after well known Ukrainian election campaign of November - December 2004.