Kiev (Kyiv), Ukraine is one of the more beautiful cities in Europe. Founded more than 1500 years ago, nestled nobly on the banks of the majestic Dnipro River, Kiev is the bustling capital of newly independent Ukraine.

This city, with a population of 2.7 million people 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.

Shown below are the top 10 Kiev tourist attractions:

Kiev Pecherska Lavra - The Dnipro Hills are dominated by the greatest monument of Kiev, the Pecherska Lavra, built almost nine centuries ago.  A complex of churches, masterpieces of architecture by themselves, has been a holy place of worship for devout Christians.  The Lavra is famous for its catacombs with saints' relics.

National Opera House - The theater is located in downtown Kiev, near the Khreschatyk Street.  The beautiful exterior of the building is supported by the majestic interior design.  Much of the theater's creative efforts are concentrated on productions of classical Ukrainian operas and ballets with  professional actors and bright decorations.

St. Sophia Cathedral - St. Sophia's 13 beautiful golden domes nicely blend with the city skyline.  The grandiose ensemble was built by Prince Yaroslav the Wise in the XI century.  The cathedral became a major cultural and political center of Kievan Rus and is famous for its outstanding frescoes dating back to the XI century.

Golden Gate - This fortified wall, defining the limits of the city and serving as a protective barrier from invaders in the past centuries, dates back to 1037, the reign of Prince Yaroslav the Wise.  The gate was restored to its present condition in 1983, and it now serves as the Golden Gate historical museum, open to the public.

The Horodetsky Building - One of the most interesting buildings in Kiev was built by the well known architect Horodetsky, as a private residence in 1902.  The walls and roof of the structure are decorated with intricate sculptural ornaments of mythological and hunting themes and is a most fascinating architectural creation.

Funicular - The funicular (cable car) was built in 1905 and until now it offers quick, exciting and inexpensive rides from the Podil (Lower City) up to Mykhailivska Ploscha (Upper City).  The ride is short (about two minutes), but it is worth seeing a magnificent panorama of Kiev and the Dnipro River that uncovers from the funicular.

Mariyinsky Palace - The gorgeous blue and cream palace was designed by Bartholomew Rastrelli.  The palace is located on top of a hill in a beautiful park overlooking the Dnipro river.  The magnificent building was used as a Kiev residence of the Tsar's family.  Today the palace is used for presidential, as well as, other meetings.

Andriyivsky Uzviz - The most ancient and steep street in Kiev, Andriyivsky Uzviz, is a favorite place for outdoor fairs, festivals and concerts.  Art galleries, shops and studios make this street the best place to shop for Ukrainian crafts and art works.  Cultural museums located here reveal the history of the legendary street and of Kiev.

Independence Square - Independence Square is the city's main square and one of the most popular places for meetings. On weekends visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk down the middle of the street.  Ukraine's independence movement, from Moscow, began in this square when hundreds of university students went on a hunger strike in 1989.

Khreschatyk Street - The center of the city is Khreschatyk Street, which follows the bottom of a small valley, laced on the sides with beautiful, terraced gardens interspersed with tall, modern office and apartment buildings. Red and gray granites, and decorative ceramic tiles give Khreschatyk an attractive and colorful portrayal.