Lysa Hora

Lysa Hora is one of Kyiv’s most intriguing spots. Legends say witches once gathered here for midnight rituals. Today, it combines the quiet beauty of an oak and hornbeam forest with layers of history that go back to Kyivan Rus.

Many come for the legends, others for the atmosphere or the military past hidden behind the tree line. In the 19th century, a fortress with an underground tunnel system was built here – some believe whole passages still remain beneath the hill.

What makes Lysa Hora unique

• Long before Christianity, it was a center of pagan worship. You’ll still find a shrine to Perun – the Slavic god of thunder – on the hill today.The area keeps remains of old military fortifications: earth walls, trenches and fragments of the fortress itself.
• Local guides sometimes run themed tours focused on legends, the old fort and the mystical stories tied to the place.

Before you go

There are no cafés or restaurants inside the park, so bring water and snacks. Comfortable shoes are essential – many paths around the hill and the fort are quite uneven.

Entry is free.

Photos: Wikipedia and the the-city.kiev.ua website