Kiev is the capital of Ukraine with a population of about 3 million citizens. It is a wonderful place to undertake a romance marriage tour. It is situated on the Dnepr River and boasts architectural monuments that are recognized as world treasures. Kiev is the largest cultural, scientific and industrial center of Ukraine, the place of religious pilgrimage and a very attractive tourist destination. Its beautiful landscapes, parks and gardens charm and captivate. Hospitable Ukrainians will be delighted to introduce Slavic culture to their foreign guests.

Kiev has a continental humid climate, although it has changed significantly during recent decades due to global climate changes. The warmest months are June, July, and August, with mean temperatures of 13.8 to 24.8 C (56.9 to 76.7 F). The coldest are December, January, and February, with mean temperatures of -4.6 to -1.1 C (23.7 to 30.0 F).

Quick Facts about Kiev

Kiev has much to offer to its visitors. It is a place where you may find ladies for marriage. It ranges amongst the largest European cities, but it is not as familiar to foreign guests as is London, Paris, Moscow and other world tourist centers. It has an interesting history, developed industry, high-level education and advanced science. Those who visit Kiev once, fall in love with this charming city and return over and over again to discover its attractions. Start your acquaintance with Kiev right now.

History of Kiev

Kiev boasts a long and glorious history full of heroic deeds. It is called "the mother of Slavic cities" by right. The golden age of Kiev falls on the 11th-12th centuries, when Kiev Rus was a powerful state, the center of trading routes between the Baltic and the Mediterranean Seas. For centuries Kiev was badly damaged and looted, but Kiev has survived and still amazes her contemporaries with its sublimity and beauty.

Ukrainian Holidays

Holidays Ukrainians celebrate could be divided into two main groups - public holidays and religious ones. The most popular and favorite holiday is New Year, which is even more important than Christmas in Ukraine. Among the other public holidays are Independence Day, Victory Day, International Women's Day and some others. Orthodox religious holidays have their own peculiarities and differ from the Catholic ones.

Monuments & Architecture

Probably, Kiev’s most famous historical architectural complexes are St. Sophia Cathedral and Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves), which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Noteworthy historical architectural landmarks also include the Mariyinsky Palace (designed and constructed from 1745 to 1752, (then re-constructed in 1870), several Orthodox churches such as St. Michael's Cathedral, St. Andrew's, St. Vladimir's, the reconstructed Golden Gate and others. Also noteworthy is the cylindrical Salut Hotel, located across from Glory Square and an eternal flame at the World War Two Memorial Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The giant Mother Motherland statue, highly visible from the Dnieper Hills and standing at the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, is one of Kiev's well recognized modern landmarks.

Among Kiev's best-known monuments are Mikeshin's statue of Bohdan Khmelnytsky astride his horse (which is located near St. Sophia Cathedral), the venerated Vladimir the Great (St. Vladimir), the baptizer of Rus' overlooking the river above Podil, and the monument to Kyi, Schek and Khoryv and Lybid (the legendary founders of the city located at the Dnieper embankment). Finally, two modern monuments to the city protectors are located at Independence Square in the city center. These are historic protector of Kiev Michael Archangel and a modern invention, the goddess-protector Berehynia.

Sights

Kiev is often called the mother of Slavic cities. It is more than 15 centuries old and during this time Kiev has come a long way from an ancient settlement of nomadic tribes to one of the largest cities in the world. Kiev is integrally connected to Slavic cultural development. Its monuments, architectural ensembles and cathedrals charm with their beauty, harmony and historical significance. The sights and attractions of the Ukrainian capital embrace the spirit of past glorious times.

Museums

Kiev, this indisputable cultural center of Ukraine, boasts a plenty of museums and art galleries that are of an exceptional cultural and historical value. Treasuries of national art, they represent thoroughly and comprehensively the rich culture of Ukraine from the old days to the recent past and present. With over 60 museums to choose from, one is sure to select something to his or her taste.

Theatres

The extensive repertoire of Kiev theatres, stretching from the classics to the most innovative performances, caters for all tastes. Opera and ballet lovers are welcome to the renowned National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after T.G. Shevchenko, which is the oldest musical theatre in Ukraine. Those who prefer comedies will surely appreciate plays performed at the Bravo Drama Theatre. Those bored with traditions and classics are invited to the experimental Cherny Kvadrat Theatre.

Parks and Gardens

Kiev boasts a number of parks and gardens that are perfect for rest with beautiful ladies, friends, family, or just alone. In the parks one can admire beautiful Ukrainian nature, enjoy the fresh air and have a good time. Those who like exotic plants are welcome to visit the Central Botanical Garden; little children get positive emotions visiting Kiev Zoo and getting acquainted with funny and cute animals; and if one wants just to have fun, he will, probably, never find a better place than the Hydropark.

Exhibition Centers

Ukraine is characterized by a fast growing economy, a stable currency, a promising market of 50 million people, and some unique opportunities for business. The geographical location of Kiev is advantageous for the development of foreign economic relations. Economical growth gave an impulse for development of exhibition business. Now there are several exhibition centers in Kiev providing everything needed for the conducting of exhibitions and trade fairs at an international level.