Kyiv is one of the most important centers for various religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and others. The city is home to about 250 temples, 49 of which are recognized as architectural monuments. Christianity was introduced in Kyiv at the end of the 10th century, and the city has been a center of pilgrimage for Christian worshipers for centuries. Visitors can spend many days exploring the churches and monasteries in the city. Here is a list of the top five cathedrals to visit in Kyiv, known for their unique architecture spanning different historical periods from the 19th to the 21st centuries.

1. Saint Michael Golden-Domed Cathedral

The cathedral is located on the territory of St. Michael Golden-Domed Monastery. Moreover archangel Michael is a heavenly patron of Kyiv. The cathedral and monastery have a long glorious and tragic history. Originally founded in the 12th century, it was an example of Medieval architecture and art with unique mosaics and frescoes. Unfortunately, during the Soviet times, the cathedral did not survive. The Soviet authorities planned to build a new governmental square so they destroyed the cathedral in 1935. As a result, the authorities started construction of new buildings but didn’t finish the project. It used to be an empty area for many years on this place instead of a monastery. Finally, new life of the cathedral started in 2000. City and church authorities, public organizations and activists donated money for rebuilding of the cathedral. Now we can see a replica restored in Ukrainian Baroque style. You can visit church services twice a day. Pay attention that women usually wear a scarf when entering inside. Anyway, if you don’t have a scarf, you can enter inside without it. Ukrainian church is moving toward democratic traditions.

2. Saint Volodymyr Cathedral

St Volodymyr Cathdreal is one of the best in Kyiv built in New-Byzantine style in 1896 to commemorate the 900-year anniversary of the introduction of Christianity in Rus-Ukraine. It bears the name of Grand Prince Volodymyr the Baptizer who introduced Christianity. You can see beautiful original wall paintings made by Russian, Polish, and Ukrainian artists at the end of the 19th century as well as the relics of St. Barbara. The cathedral is open for visitors from 7.00 am to 8.00 pm, services start at 9.00 am and 5.00 pm every day. The entrence is free although taking photos or videos for an extra payment.

3. Assumption Cathedral in Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

The Assumption Cathedral serves as the main temple of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery. Originally built in the 11th century, it was a masterpiece of medieval and Ukrainian Baroque architecture. The Soviets and German Nazis destroyed it in 1941 during World War II. Nevertheless, we can see its replica rebuilt in 2010 in Ukrainian Baroque style. It is an active church as well as a museum. On the territory of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, you can visit the exhibitions of the history of the monastery and see many original photos and exhibits. On the left side of the cathedral, there are the remains of the original wall of the 11th century. Visitors have to buy an entrance ticket to the historical preserve, which allows you to visit the cathedral, refectory church, and belfry. However, during big religious holidays the entrance is free.

4. Saint Alexander Roman-Catholic Cathedral

The cathedral is situated in the city center on a high hill near European Square. The Polish community built a cathedral in 1817. When you enter inside, turn to the right side to see a small historical exhibition with old photos. The cathedral has been an important center of Polish culture in Kyiv for many years. Famous artist Kazimir Malevich was baptized in the cathedral. At the same time, the services are held in Polish, Ukrainian, and English.

5. Saint Nickolas Roman-Catholic Cathedral

A beautiful New-Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of well-known Kyivan architect Vladyslav Gorodetskiy built in 1909. The cathedral is located quite far from the city center so tourists rarely visit it. The Soviets closed and transformed a cathedral into the House of Organ and Chamber Music. Additionally, the masters of the company «Rieger-Kloss» in Czechoslovakia designed the organ then. The revival of church life in the community started in the late 1980s. Since 1992, the church began to hold regular worship services, alternating, by arrangement, with concert activities of the National Organ and Chamber Music Hall of Ukraine. Therefore, check a schedule before planning a visit.

Read more 10 Stunning Places must see in Kyiv

Check out more pictures on my Travel blog on Instagram @olena.guide.ukraine