The Golden Gate of Kiev is a fortification that was part of the ancient city walls. It was built in the 11th century by Yaroslav the Wise, Grand Prince of Kiev, but subsequently fell into disrepair and was buried underground.
Archaeological excavations of the Golden Gate began in the 1832. In 1970 a pavilion was built over the ruins to protect them and recreate the original look of the gate. The pavilion was rebuilt in 1982 to mark the 1500th anniversary of the city. It currently houses a tourist information centre, small museum and offers great views of the city.
A bronze monument to Yaroslav the Wise stands in front of the gate. There’s also a smaller and more curious statue of a bronze cat called Pantyusha. In 1997 a fire at the nearby Pantagruel restaurant resulted in the death of its popular cat. Staff and diners raised some money and erected the statue in its memory. It is now a popular photo opportunity for tourists.
There are lots of places to eat and drink nearby. An outdoor café next to the Golden Gate is very pleasant in the summer months. The Golden Gate Irish Pub is also nearby.
The Golden Gate of Kiev is situated in the centre of city right next to Zoloti Vorota Metro Station.
Map
Map showing location of Golden Gate.
Click here for a detailed map showing all points of interest.
Details
Golden Gate
Address
Zoloti Vorota
Kiev
Kiev Oblast
Ukraine
BP says
It is an interesting monument and worth seeing. The area around it is very pleasant with lots of nice bars and restaurants. Bear in mind though it is a reconstruction so is artificial.
Editor says
It isn’t all artificial. If you pay to go inside you can see remains of the original structure.
Bob says
Golden Gate is a wonderful area with lots of things to see and do. Make sure you check out the statues of the cat and also Yaroslav the Wise, the prince that built St Sophia’s Cathedral. You can go inside the Golden Gate itself for a small fee. The view from the top is outstanding. Inside you can also see the remains of the original city wall (the structure there now is a reconstruction). In the summer there’s a very nice outdoor café by the fountains where you can have a nice beer or something to eat. The Golden Gate is really easy to find. Just get on the Metro and exit at Zoloti Vorota station. It’s right outside the station entrance. You can’t miss it.