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| Top Ukraine Attractions : St Sophia's Cathedral |
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| St Sofia Cathedral is Kiev's oldest surviving church. It has taken some eventful centuries to make it what it is today: a world famous historical monument of an impressive architectural mix.
Founded in 1037, the cathedral originally had five naves and was surrounded by two circled galleries. Over the centuries the building's architectural style has vastly changed. It was seriously damaged in several crises, being burnt many times, but always reconstructed. |
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In 1707 it was rebuilt in the style of Ukrainian baroque and topped with typical pear-shaped cupolas. Today the 13-domed cathedral combines architectural constructions of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.
For many years the cathedral served as a burial place of Kiev princes. It became a holy place of worship for ancient Kievites, as well as a major cultural and political centre. Adjoining Yaroslav's Palace, St Sofia's was often used to receive foreign diplomats and negotiate treaties.
The cathedral is famous for its mosaics and frescos, decorating walls, pillars and vaults and dating back to the 11th century. Inside, the central part of the cathedral features a six-metre high mosaic depicting the Virgin Mary. Paintings on the belfry as well as about 300 notes and images on the walls, known as "Sophia graffiti", relate ancient political events.
Nowadays the cathedral is an architectural and historical preserve and is among the most beautiful temples and major attractions in the city.
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