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Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People (Ukraine)

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The Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People is a prominent landmark located in Khreshchatyi Park in Kyiv, overlooking the Dnieper River. Originally opened in 1982 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Soviet Union, it was formerly known as the Arch of People's Friendship. The monument consists of a massive titanium arch with a diameter of 50 meters, standing over a complex of statues. Following the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022, the Kyiv City Council officially renamed the structure to symbolize Ukraine's struggle for liberty and sovereignty. The bronze sculpture depicting two workers was dismantled in April 2022 as part of the country's derussification efforts. The site features a scenic observation deck that provides panoramic views of the river and the city's left bank. Today, the arch serves as a powerful symbol of national resilience and the ongoing shift in Ukraine's historical narrative.

Location: Ukraine
Top sights: Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian people · Bridge over Volodymyrskyi Descent · Monument to the Magdeburg Rights
Nearby: Vyshhorod (13 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-6	-5	1	9	16	19	22	21	15	8	2	-4
Rain mm	43	42	42	41	67	73	65	50	48	50	45	50

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The arch monument is freely accessible at any time as it stands on a public hilltop. The structure cannot be entered, only its surroundings are open.

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Typical hours

As an open-air monument, there are no visiting hours. The best time to come is during daylight, especially around sunset.

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Photography

Photography is completely unrestricted; the arch creates a memorable silhouette against the sky. For unique shots, use the walkways below or the bridge over the Dnipro.

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Time needed

A brief visit takes just 15 to 30 minutes. If you want to enjoy the view over the river and city, feel free to linger longer.

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Combine with

The arch stands at the edge of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, also worth visiting. A few minutes away are the Kyiv Fortress and the Motherland Monument.

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Getting there

The arch is easily reached by metro (Arsenalna station) followed by a short walk. Buses and taxis also serve the monument area.

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Insider tip

Visit in the late afternoon when the light makes the titanium alloy glow golden. Bring a water bottle, as the hilltop can get very hot in summer.

Geography

Coordinates

50.45470, 30.52970

Facts

The arch spans a total diameter of 50 meters (164 feet).
It was commissioned in 1982 for the USSR's 60th anniversary.
The renaming ceremony took place on May 14, 2022.
A symbolic crack was painted on the arch in 2018 as a protest.
The bronze worker statue was 6.2 meters tall before removal.
The site is part of a larger park complex on the Dnieper hills.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery<1 km · SExplore →

Mariinskyi Palace1 km · NWExplore →

St. Volodymyr's Cathedral2 km · SWExplore →

St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral3 km · SWExplore →

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra4 km · NWExplore →

Gryshko National Botanical Garden5 km · NWExplore →

St. Cyril's Church (Kyiv)7 km · SEExplore →

Kyiv Zoo7 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People (10)

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian people

Monument in Kyiv, Ukraine, symbolizing independence.

Bridge over Volodymyrskyi Descent

Pedestrian bridge in Kyiv, Ukraine, over Volodymyrskyi Descent.

Monument to the Magdeburg Rights

Monument in Kyiv, Ukraine, commemorating Magdeburg city rights.

National Philharmonic of Ukraine

Building complex in Ukraine, home of the National Philharmonic.

🌐 filarmonia.com.ua🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-19:00♿

Water Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Kyiv, dealing with water and water supply.

Puppet Theatre

Theatre in Kyiv, presenting puppet shows.

Saint Volodymyr Hill🌳 park

Park and landscape art monument in Kyiv, Ukraine.

St. Alexander Catholic Church

Church building in Kyiv, Ukraine, a Catholic church.

Parkovyi Bridge

Bridge in Ukraine, a pedestrian bridge in Kyiv.

Devil's Bridge

Bridge or structure in Kyiv, known as Devil's Bridge.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What was the previous name of the arch?

It was formerly called the 'Arch of People's Friendship'.

Why was the name changed?

The name was changed in 2022 as part of de-communization and due to the Russian invasion.

When was the monument erected?

It was inaugurated in 1982 to celebrate the 1500th anniversary of Kyiv.

What does the crack marking on the arch symbolize?

A painted crack has symbolized the broken friendship with Russia since 2018.

Is there an observation deck there?

Behind the arch, there is a deck overlooking the Dnipro River and the Podil district.

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People: where is it located?

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People is located in Ukraine.

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People: what is there to see?

Highlights include Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian people, Bridge over Volodymyrskyi Descent, Monument to the Magdeburg Rights.

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People: why is it worth visiting?

The Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People is a prominent landmark located in Khreshchatyi Park in Kyiv, overlooking the Dnieper River.

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