Upper Town
Quick Summary
The Upper Town is the historic heart of Kyiv, Ukraine, situated on the high bluffs overlooking the Dnieper River. Although much of its current architecture is post-World War II, it retains its ancient street layout and is home to most of Kyiv's surviving historical and architectural monuments.1
Key landmarks in the Upper Town include:
* Saint Sophia Cathedral: An 11th-century example of Rus-Byzantine architecture, famous for its mosaics and frescoes.1
* St. Andrew's Church: A mid-18th-century Baroque church designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli.1
* Golden Gate: An 11th-century structure built during the reign of Yaroslav the Wise.1
* Desiatynna Church (Church of the Tithes): Originally built in the late 10th century.1
This central area also houses many of the city's museums, theaters, and shops. The main thoroughfare is Khreshchatyk, a vibrant street known for its mix of modern buildings, terraced gardens, and public squares, including Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square).1
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