Monument to the Founders of Kyiv - Image 1
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Monument to the Founders of Kyiv

4.7
·4k reviews·Kyiv, Ukraine

Iconic monument in Kyiv celebrating the legendary founders Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and Lybid, set in vibrant Independence Square.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light is beautiful

CrowdMedium
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Monument to the Founders of Kyiv - Image 1

Monument to the Founders of Kyiv

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light is beautiful

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic monument in Kyiv celebrating the legendary founders Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and Lybid, set in vibrant Independence Square.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"Touching stories and historical significance make this a must-see in Kyiv's vibrant Independence Square."

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TIP

Learn the Legend First

Understand the story of Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and Lybid for a richer experience.

Beware of Scams

Politely decline donation requests and unsolicited purchases.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Founders' Boat

The Founders' Boat

Navodnytsky Park

A symbolic boat carrying the four legendary founders, representing Kyiv's ancient origins on the Dnipro River.

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Independence Square

Commemorates the legendary founding of Kyiv by brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and sister Lybid in the 5th century.

Artistic Representation

Artistic Representation

Navodnytsky Park

A striking acrylic on canvas artwork captures the essence of the monument and its legendary figures.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Legend

This monument celebrates the legendary founders: brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and their sister Lybid. Learn their story to appreciate the monument's significance and Kyiv's deep history.

Location & Surroundings

Situated in Navodnytsky Park, it's part of Independence Square, a vibrant area with shops and food. Be aware of potential tourist traps and donation requests.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light is beautiful
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ukraine has replaced the Soviet emblem on one of Kyiv’s most prominent monuments with its own coat of arms, part of a broader push since the full-scale invasion to stamp out tributes to Russian power. The Motherland Monument — a 335-foot-tall stainless steel behemoth towering over Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital — was designed to assert Soviet invincibility. Unveiled in 1981, the monument is a figure of a...
@nytimes
37.2K likes • 916.7K views

Learn the Legend First

Understand the story of Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and Lybid for a richer experience. Instagram

Beware of Scams

Politely decline donation requests and unsolicited purchases. Reddit

Monument to the founders of #Kyiv on #Maidan
battle_for_kyiv_2022
8 likes • 190 views
The Monument to the Founders of Kyiv acrylic on canvas size 8x8 inch Legend states that three brothers, Kyi, Shchek and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid, founded the city. Kyiv thus takes its name from Kyi, the eldest brother. #ВАЛЯ #zasutska #ukraineart #painting #oilpaint #artwork #oilpaintingart #technique #artsales #artcollector #fineartgallery #contemporaryfineart #newyork
valya_zasutska
66 likes • 1.4K views

Explore Independence Square

The monument is part of a lively area with shopping and dining options. Reddit

Capture the Art

Appreciate the artistic interpretations, like the acrylic on canvas painting. Instagram

Tips

from all over the internet

Learn the Legend First

Understand the story of Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and Lybid for a richer experience. Instagram

Beware of Scams

Politely decline donation requests and unsolicited purchases. Reddit

Explore Independence Square

The monument is part of a lively area with shopping and dining options. Reddit

Capture the Art

Appreciate the artistic interpretations, like the acrylic on canvas painting. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Monument to the Founders of Kyiv deeply moving, appreciating its historical significance and the touching narratives shared on informational boards. While the monument itself is a highlight, some caution against tourist traps and unsolicited donation requests in the busy Independence Square area. The surrounding park and square offer a vibrant atmosphere with amenities.

"The Pam'yatnyy Znak Na Chestʹ Zasnuvannya Mista Kyyeva, or Monument to the Founders of Kyiv, is a symbolic and iconic monument located in Navodnytsky Park in Kyiv, Ukraine. This monument commemorates the legendary founding of Kyiv, traditionally attributed to the three brothers, Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid, who, according to legend, founded the city on the banks of the Dnipro River in the 5th century."

Vagabond Couple

"Absolutely amazing. The history and the meaning of the location is described on the large metal boards. They are very touching and show the progression of the protests in 2014. They show the story of the people and made me cry.
But beware of tourist traps and people asking you for donations and purchases, just say no."

Antonio Batinić

"The monument to Riukik and heirs is a masterpiece. Next you get a chance to take a picture with an I heart Kiev sign, and to see some explanations signs and memorabilia about the last coup"

Pierre -Jean

What People Like

Touching historical narratives
Symbolic founding legend
Vibrant Independence Square

What People Dislike

Tourist traps
Donation requests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The monument is located in Navodnytsky Park, which is part of Independence Square in central Kyiv. You can reach Independence Square via metro (Maidan Nezalezhnosti station) or various bus routes. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, Independence Square is a major hub and well-served by Kyiv's public transport network, including metro and buses. Reddit

Walking from the immediate city center to Independence Square is feasible, or you can take a short metro ride to Maidan Nezalezhnosti station. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the monument and Navodnytsky Park are public spaces and do not require an entrance fee. Reddit

As it's an outdoor monument in a park, it's generally accessible at all times. However, surrounding facilities might have specific hours. Reddit

Navodnytsky Park is a public park, so there is no admission fee to enter and view the monument. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It commemorates the legendary founding of Kyiv by three brothers, Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid in the 5th century. InstagramReddit

Yes, large metal boards describe the history and meaning of the monument, including its connection to the 2014 protests. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a popular spot for photos, and you can even find an 'I heart Kyiv' sign nearby. Reddit

The monument is part of Independence Square, which offers shopping, dining, and other attractions like the Globus underground mall. Reddit

Yes, many people enjoy walking and spending time with kids in the area, and the historical context can be educational. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Independence Square and its surroundings offer a wide variety of dining, from fast food to Turkish and Halal options. Reddit

Indeed, the Globus underground mall is a major shopping destination located right in Independence Square. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting, making the monument and its surroundings particularly picturesque. Instagram

Besides the main monument, you can find an 'I heart Kyiv' sign nearby, perfect for capturing your visit. Reddit

Many visitors capture the monument's symbolic boat, the historical explanation boards, and the vibrant atmosphere of Independence Square. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Monument to the Founders of Kyiv and its surrounding area in Independence Square are great for families. Kids can enjoy the open space of Navodnytsky Park and learn about the city's legendary founders. The 'I heart Kyiv' sign nearby also offers a fun photo opportunity. Reddit

While exploring, be mindful of the historical context explained on the boards, which can be a good educational moment. The abundance of food options and the nearby Globus mall also make it easy to cater to children's needs during your visit. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Monument to the Founders of Kyiv offers several compelling angles. The symbolic boat is a strong focal point, and the late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and warm tones. Instagram

Beyond the monument itself, Independence Square provides a backdrop of urban life, fountains, and other architectural elements. Don't miss the chance to capture the 'I heart Kyiv' sign for a classic tourist shot. The artistic interpretations, like the acrylic painting, also present unique photographic subjects. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Kyiv's Founding

The Monument to the Founders of Kyiv is deeply rooted in Ukrainian folklore. Legend tells of three brothers, Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid, who established a settlement on the hills overlooking the Dnipro River. Kyi, the eldest, is said to have given his name to the city, Kyiv. This narrative is central to the identity of Kyiv and is celebrated through various cultural expressions, including this significant monument. InstagramReddit

These figures are not just mythical characters but represent the ancient origins and enduring spirit of the city. The monument visually captures this founding myth, often depicted with the brothers and sister in a boat, symbolizing their journey and the establishment of their new home. Understanding this legend enriches the visitor's appreciation of the monument's historical and cultural weight. Instagram

Navodnytsky Park and Independence Square

The Monument to the Founders of Kyiv is situated within Navodnytsky Park, a green space that offers a pleasant environment for reflection and leisure. More broadly, it's a key feature of Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti), the central square of Kyiv. This area is not just a landmark but a vibrant hub of activity, known for its fountains, monuments, and as a site of significant historical events, including the 2014 protests. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy the monument and then explore the surrounding square, which is a popular gathering place. It's a dynamic location where history meets modern city life, offering a mix of cultural sites, shopping at the Globus mall, and diverse dining options. The proximity to these amenities makes it a convenient and engaging destination for tourists. TikTokReddit

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