Kyiv's surprising origin: Secrets buried beneath its oldest streets
Photo: Historic center of Kyiv (Getty Images)
In an interview with RBC-Ukraine, Nataliia Pinchuk, a senior research associate at the Museum of the History of Kyiv, explained that historic Kyiv began between two parts — the hill (Upper Town) and Podil (Lower Town). Both areas can be considered the origins of the capital.
"Those who study Podil say that Kyiv started from there. Others — from the Upper Town, specifically Starokyivska Hill, where the Museum of the History of Ukraine is now," she said.
Podil was Kyiv's trade center. It had a large port, and archaeologists found remains of a street from the times of Kyivan Rus at Poshtova Square. The Upper Town was the administrative and spiritual hub. Its grand entrance was the Golden Gate, built in the 11th century. The name is linked to Constantinople, goldsmithing, or a gilded church above the gate.
According to chronicles, Kyivans were baptized in the Pochaina River — a tributary of the Dnipro. The river still exists, mostly underground. It can be seen near the modern Pochaina metro station.
"There are still many secrets underground. Excavations continue, and many discoveries lie ahead," Pinchuk noted.
As a reminder, Kyiv Day will be celebrated on May 25, 2025. Despite the war, symbolic events are taking place in the city — free tours, activities in museums, and theaters. Mass celebrations are canceled, and no extra day off will be given. The curfew remains unchanged — from midnight to 5 AM Kyiv time.
We also covered 15 of the most beautiful places you must see in the capital.
