St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral

St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral is the main building of the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, founded between 1108 and 1113. The monastery complex also includes a bell tower, refectory, and several other historic buildings. Located in the heart of Kyiv, it sits near Saint Sophia Cathedral, Andriyivskyi Descent, and Independence Square. The cathedral is not only a major religious site in the city but also a symbol of Ukraine’s history and culture.

What to know about St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral

• It is one of the largest monasteries in Kyiv and the first church in Kyivan Rus to feature gilded domes — which is how it got its name. Inside the monastery is a museum with exhibitions on its history. You can also see restored frescoes, mosaics, and icons — including the icon of Archangel Michael and the 12th-century mosaic Eucharist.
• In the 1930s, the cathedral was demolished by Soviet authorities, but in the 1990s it was rebuilt using preserved photographs and architectural drawings. The cathedral now stands as a symbol of the revival of Ukraine’s historical, religious, and cultural heritage.
• The refectory, also known as the Church of St. John the Theologian, was the first place in Kyiv where liturgies were held in the Ukrainian language.
• From the top of the 48-meter bell tower, you can enjoy views of Saint Sophia Square and Cathedral, Volodymyrska Street, Independence Square, Saint Andrew’s Church, the Dnipro River, and Kyiv’s left bank.

Set aside up to 1.5 hours to explore the cathedral, the monastery grounds, and the bell tower.

Entry to the cathedral grounds is free. For bell tower access, check pricing on site.

Photos: Visit Kyiv