Kiev

Independence Square in Kiev
Photo by: d proffer, Creative Commons
For your vacation destination this year, make it a point to include Kiev, Ukraine. This happens to be the most famous city in the whole of Ukraine that has already attracted thousand of tourists per annum. The sights and sounds of the place is what lure tourists to this enigmatic capital in Eastern Europe.
What are the places to go in Kiev?
1) Kievo- Pecherska Lavra
This is one of the remarkable churches in Kiev that was built around nine centuries ago. This is a great place for you to experience how the architecture was done before as well as make your visit sort of a pilgrimage since it has relics from different saints. Locals also call the Lavra as Monastery of Caves. Would you believe that there are several catacombs underneath it? It is such a holy place where you could worship and experience for yourself how the Christian faith bloomed in such a place.
2) Kiev Opera
This majestic opera house is considered as one of the most sought after places in the entire world. Just make sure that you carry the Hrivna – their national currency. You have to carry a lot since the prices in these opera houses can sometimes reach the stars but the experience is worth it.
3) St. Nicolas Catholic Cathedral
Built in the early 1900s, the St. Nicolas Catholic Cathedral is one of the places that you should visit since you will be able to see amazing Gothic styles and other architectural designs in that era. This place often held concerts as well as other Catholic services like weddings. You will be astonished at its fully-restored look which happened in the 80s nevertheless, the original look has been strictly followed.
4) Golden Gate
There came a time when barriers were erected to protect the city from foreign invaders. That is why in early 1037 such a massive infrastructure was made under the reign of Prince Yaroslav the Wise. For years it really pushed outsiders out but after its restoration in the 1980s, the Golden Gate became a museum.
Kiev has a rich history to its name, which is why it is a favorite place to visit by people from around the world. Having preserved such beautiful structures has enabled Kiev to act and pose as the center of history, arts and culture for Ukraine.