Extraordinary Kyiv: TOP 7 mysterious facts and locations

On 25 May, Kyiv celebrates its birthday. Discover the most interesting facts you definitely didn't know and the extraordinary locations of the Ukrainian capital that every tourist should visit

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Kyiv is a city with a thousand-year history, hiding many interesting places and unusual stories. Let's dive into some of them, focusing on the most popular locations that we have collected in this article.

Secrets of Kyiv's mountains and ancient places

Batyeva Mountain

Batyeva Mountain is not just a hill on the right bank of the Dnipro, but a place shrouded in legends. The name is associated with the Mongol-Tatar invasion, because, according to legend, it was here that Khan Baty's camp was located. However, despite its formidable name, it is now a picturesque area known for its steep slopes and cosy streets offering wonderful views of the city. It is a unique example of how history intertwines with everyday life, and one can imagine how history was once written here.

‘Kyiv's Bermuda Triangle’

‘Kyiv's Bermuda Triangle’ is the unofficial name for the area consisting of Burmistenka, Vystavkova and Amurskaya streets, which arose because of their unusual intertwining and complex topography. Similar to the Bermuda Triangle, you can get lost in the maze of passages, stairways and courtyards, which makes this area interesting to explore. It is a real labyrinth, where every turn reveals new perspectives and the unique atmosphere of Kyiv.

Black Mountain

Black Mountain is another of Kyiv's mysterious hills in Pechersk. Its name is also shrouded in mystery, whether because of the dark forests that once covered it or because of some ancient events. During the Soviet era, secret facilities were built here, which further enhanced the aura of mystery. Today, it is a predominantly private residential area where peace and quiet reign, and some spots offer incredible panoramic views of the left bank and the Dnipro River.

Old Tatarka

Old Tatarka is one of the oldest historical districts of Kyiv, which has retained its unique flavour. It got its name from the Tatars who lived here since the times of Kievan Rus. This place is known for its atmospheric private buildings, narrow streets and steep slopes that preserve the spirit of past centuries. A walk through Old Tatarka is a real journey through time, where every house and every alley has its own story.

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Landmarks of Kyiv

Bessarabska Square

Bessarabska Square is not just a transport hub, but the heart of Kyiv's business and cultural life. Its pride and joy is the famous Bessarabsky Market, built in the early 20th century. It is not only a place to buy groceries, but also an outstanding example of modern architecture, impressive with its elegance and glass dome. The square is always bustling, witnessing many events and reflecting the dynamic pulse of the city.

Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is one of the largest Orthodox monastery complexes in the world, founded in the 11th century. Its caves, where the incorruptible relics of saints rest, attract pilgrims from all over the world. It is not only a spiritual centre but also an architectural masterpiece, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Lavra has numerous churches and museums, and its bell towers are a symbol of Kyiv. Here, every stone breathes history.

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Pirogovo Museum

The Pirogovo Museum (National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine) is a unique open-air museum spread over a huge area near Kyiv. It has a collection of authentic examples of folk architecture from all corners of Ukraine – houses, churches and mills, which were collected from villages and transported here. A walk through Pirogovo is an immersion into the life of a Ukrainian village of past centuries, an opportunity to see the everyday life, traditions and crafts, and feel the spirit of the real Ukraine. It is a living reminder of our roots and cultural wealth.

Kyiv is a city of contrasts, where antiquity blends harmoniously with modernity, and new interesting facts and stories await around every corner. If you would like to learn more about a specific aspect of Kyiv, contact the specialists at Visit Ukraine (Telegram | WhatsApp) and choose a tour to suit your taste.

Main photo: Historical and educational project Portal

Photos of locations: Visit Ukraine

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