C O N T E X T 1 7 2 : J U N E 2 0 2 2 37 1 The Motherland monument, honouring the ‘Heroes of Victory’ over the Nazi invaders (Photo: Jade Maynard) A tour of 10 highlights of Kyiv LOUISE PRIESTMAN Kyiv: a tour of the city The 10 historic buildings and structures described here are some of the most loved by residents and visitors to the capital of Ukraine, one of eastern Europe’s oldest cities. Ukraine has taken centre stage in the past few months, and sadly not for the right reasons. It is a country rich in history and beautiful landscapes, and there is so much to see and to learn about it. I had the privilege of living in Kyiv in 2019 and have visited many times. I made friends with many Ukrainians from all walks of life during my time there. They opened up their lives to me, and showed me some of their favourite buildings around the city that they call home. This instilled a deep sense of appreciation as to how and why these buildings are the way they are, shaped through the city’s social and political history. There are churches which are almost otherworldly, capturing the character of Ukraine perfectly. This article is a whistlestop tour of 10 places that have captured the hearts and minds of Ukrainians and visitors alike. Several have been chosen by Ukrainians who know Kyiv better than most. This list is by no means exhaustive, but provides an insight into some beautifully conserved, restored and preserved places. THE TOUR We start the tour to the south-east of the centre of Kyiv at the Motherland Monument. Looking over the Dnieper River, it dominates the skyline as you enter the city from the east. 1 Motherland monument The Motherland monument is a 62-metretall memorial and museum, locally known as ‘Brezhnev’s daughter’. It honours the ‘Heroes of Victory’ over the Nazi invaders. Designed by Evgeny Vuchetich and inaugurated in 1981, it remains a prominent part of Ukraine’s heritage. Anna, a children’s nurse, chose the Motherland monument as her favourite place in Kyiv. ‘I have always admired the monument, it is visible from all sides of the city,’ she says. ‘The shield and sword in her hands have always instilled in me an association with a strong, brave and independent country – my Ukraine! She has endured pain and persecution many times but has always stood her ground, strong and invincible. I am sure that this time after the suffering she will survive and win.’ Moving further north, you stroll the through the 22-acre park, passing other chapels of interest and eventually arriving at a Unesco world heritage site. 1
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjgyMjA=