The first settlements on the territory of modern Kyiv appeared 1500 years ago. The city is situated on picturesque Dnipro hills. At the end of the 9th century Kyiv has become the capital of Kyevan Rus´ - the first state of the eastern Slavs, which has stretched from the Baltic to the Black sea. Being situated on the crossroads of trade routes, Kyiv maintained strong political and economic relations with the countries of Central and Western Europe.

Monarchic marriages of Kyivan princes have united them with a lot of dynasties in Europe. The city prospered as economic and cultural centre and won international acknowledgment.
During the 8th -12th centuries Kyiv was the guide of culture and Christianity in Eastern Europe. There was the biggest manuscript library at Sofia Kyivska Cathedral.

Kyiv Mohyla Academy, founded in the 17th century became the first university in Eastern Europe. Books were printed there, philosophy was studied, music, literature and painting were developing there.
During the II World War Kyiv was almost completely destroyed. It was quickly rebuilt in post-war years.
Prominent architectural monuments belong to different styles and date back to different epochs. These are wonderful palaces, exquisite buildings and majestic cathedrals. Architectonic ensemble of Kyiv is unique. It is sometimes called ¨the city of golden domes¨ due to many Orthodox churches that are there.

Kyiv Today

Kyiv is the capital of Ukraine, a modern city with a population of about 3 mln people, that is situated near the Dnipro River. It is a big industrial and business, cultural and scientific centre.There are a lot of theatres, museums, galleries and exhibitions. Numerous parks, picturesque hills and unique monuments of antiquity blend with the modern city and create its colourful image. Kyiv is marvellous in any season, but it is most beautiful in May when thousands of chestnuts are in blossom.