Saint Sophia Cathedral

Saint Sophia Cathedral is a historic part of ancient Kyivan Rus' that has survived intact since it was built in 1037.

The builder was one of the most capable Kyivan Rus' princes - Yaroslav the Wise. In the 11th century the temple was a cultural center of all of Kyivan Rus'.

Lots of scientific societies and schools were established at the cathedral. Their members wrote, translated and commented on scientific and religious books.

Yaroslav the Wise established an enormous library in the cathedral. It disappeared sometime during the medieval centuries - an occurrence that is still a mystery to historians.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, other stone buildings were built around the cathedral, transforming the complex into a monastery.

The interior of the cathedral has been left unchanged since the 11th century! The most impressive part of the interior is about 3,000 square meters of ancient Rus' frescoes. The shining mosaic background contains at least 177 colors. In the center you can see the figure of the Virgin Oranta with her arms up.

A medieval legend says Kyiv will last as long as Saint Sophia does.