St. Volodymyr's Cathedral Kyiv
A Neo-Byzantine masterpiece in Kyiv, famed for its vibrant yellow exterior and breathtaking, fresco-adorned interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
St. Volodymyr's Cathedral Kyiv
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Neo-Byzantine masterpiece in Kyiv, famed for its vibrant yellow exterior and breathtaking, fresco-adorned interior.
"One of the most incredible, beautiful and emotionally moving church interiors anywhere in the world!"
👗 Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Headscarves often needed for women. :pray:
📸 Photo Fees
Small fee for photos/videos inside. Be prepared for staff. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Yellow Facade
Striking Neo-Byzantine architecture with a bright yellow exterior that stands out beautifully.
Fresco-Lined Interior
Interior
A breathtaking space adorned with gold accents and stunning frescoes by renowned artists.
Iconic Mother of God Icon
Interior
A deeply moving portrayal of the Mother of God cradling the Child, evoking strong emotions.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Photography Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Headscarves often needed for women. :pray:
📸 Photo Fees
Small fee for photos/videos inside. Be prepared for staff. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible by foot from many central Kyiv locations. :athletic_shoe:
🎨 Artistic Masterpieces
Admire interiors painted by famous artists like Vasnetsov & Vrubel. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Headscarves often needed for women. :pray:
📸 Photo Fees
Small fee for photos/videos inside. Be prepared for staff. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible by foot from many central Kyiv locations. :athletic_shoe:
🎨 Artistic Masterpieces
Admire interiors painted by famous artists like Vasnetsov & Vrubel. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of St. Volodymyr's Cathedral, particularly its stunning fresco-lined interior and striking yellow exterior. While the art and spiritual atmosphere are highly lauded, some guests have found the photography fee collection and staff interactions to be less than ideal.
"home The former president Barack
I wrote letters to have the people of Ukraine saved and brought to Chicago for Haven and safety, and the former president has put me on a terrorist for helping the worlds peope of UKRAINE. pray for me, I love you. Fight fight fight!! never never never give up!!! -Churchill
Obama, has been unjustly using his former power to stalk me and intimidate me unjustly. I am an American and this is a crime against humanity. He has created russian road blocks and detention units to stop my movement and not allowing to go home."
Diego Gonzalez
"It is gorgeous architecture, but old workers follow you around and say you must pay for taking pictures. They're very rude and I don't understand why I have to pay THEM to take pictures of Ukrainian architecture. Very unprofessional. I'm adding a picture that costed me a few dirty looks. 10/10 experience"
Mariia Ivankovych
"Without a doubt, one of the most incredible, beautiful and emotionally moving church interiors anywhere in the world! The mother of God is portrayed cradling the Child in a very protective way and is incredibly emotionally moving."
W M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Volodymyr's Cathedral is centrally located in Kyiv and is easily accessible. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other key attractions. Public transport options like metro and buses also serve the area. If you're arriving from further afield, taxis or ride-sharing apps are readily available.
Yes, the cathedral is situated in a convenient part of Kyiv, making it easy to combine with visits to other significant sites. It's a great starting point for exploring the city's historical and cultural heart.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the cathedral itself is generally free, but there is a small fee if you wish to take photographs or videos inside.
Opening hours can vary, but the cathedral is typically open daily. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays.
Yes, a modest dress code is expected. Visitors should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Women may be asked to wear a headscarf, which are often available at the entrance.
Photography is usually permitted inside, but a small fee is typically charged. Some visitors have noted that staff can be quite strict about enforcing this.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The interior is absolutely spectacular, featuring breathtaking frescoes and gold accents. It was decorated by several famous Russian painters of the time, creating a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Many visitors find the portrayal of the Mother of God cradling the Child to be incredibly emotionally moving and a highlight of the interior.
Yes, it is an active Orthodox church. You may witness services or religious ceremonies, such as Easter basket blessings, which add to the vibrant atmosphere.
The cathedral is a prime example of Neo-Byzantine architecture, characterized by its distinctive bright yellow facade and grand domes.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside, but there is a fee. Be prepared for staff to monitor and potentially charge for photos.
The exterior's vibrant yellow facade is a great photo opportunity. Inside, the fresco-covered walls and golden domes offer stunning visual backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
The construction of the cathedral began in the 1860s and was completed in 1882, making it a relatively modern addition to Kyiv's historical landscape compared to older sites. It was built to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Christianization of Kyivan Rus' by Prince Volodymyr the Great, hence its name. The cathedral has played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of Ukraine.
Visitors are often struck by the harmonious blend of exterior beauty and interior splendor. The bright yellow exterior is a deliberate choice that adds to its visual appeal, while the interior is a testament to the artistic achievements of its time. The cathedral's enduring presence is a symbol of resilience and faith.
+1Artistic Interior
The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, rendered with incredible detail and emotional depth. The Mother of God icon, cradling the Child, is particularly noted for its powerful and moving portrayal, drawing significant attention from visitors. The use of gold accents throughout the interior further enhances the sense of divine presence and grandeur.
Experiencing the interior is often described as breathtaking and emotionally profound. The sheer scale and artistry involved in decorating the cathedral make it a must-see for art lovers and those seeking spiritual reflection.
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