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Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky is a world-famous landmark located on Sophia Square in the heart of Kyiv. Unveiled in 1888 to mark the 900th anniversary of the Christianization of Kievan Rus', it honors the 17th-century Cossack Hetman who led the rebellion against Polish rule. The bronze equestrian statue depicts Khmelnytsky on a rearing horse, his right hand holding a mace (bulawa) pointed firmly toward the horizon. Designed by sculptor Mikhail Mikeshin, the monument sits on a rugged granite pedestal that was originally intended for a different fortification project. Its location is significant, standing in the axis between Saint Sophia Cathedral and Saint Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery. Despite the turbulent history of the 20th century, the statue remained largely untouched and continues to serve as a primary gathering point for national celebrations and historical commemorations. It remains an enduring symbol of Ukrainian independence and military prowess.

Location: Ukraine
Top sights: Bell tower · Refectory Church · Saint Sophia Cathedral
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 equestrian monument stands in the open Sofia Square and is freely accessible around the clock. There is no interior to visit - the entire viewing experience takes place outdoors.

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Typical hours

Since it is a public monument, there are no fixed opening hours. It is typically accessible at all times, though large events may briefly restrict access to the square.

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Photography

Photography is freely allowed at any time without restrictions. Late afternoon light works best, as the warm glow emphasizes the intricate details of the statue and its pedestal.

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Time needed

A quick stop takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to read the inscriptions and appreciate the surroundings, allow 20-30 minutes.

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Combine with

Right next to it is St. Sophia Cathedral, another must-see in Kyiv. St. Michael's Square with its golden-domed church is just a five-minute walk away.

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Getting there

Sofia Square is centrally located and easily reachable by metro (Zoloti Vorota station). From Kyiv-Pasazhyrskyi railway station, a taxi ride takes about 15 minutes.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the square almost to yourself - the light is also well-suited for photos. Look closely at the pedestal reliefs depicting scenes from Cossack life.

Geography

Coordinates

50.45360, 30.51640

Facts

The monument was officially unveiled on July 11, 1888.
The bronze statue itself has a height of 5 meters.
The total height of the monument including the pedestal is 10.85 meters.
It was cast in Saint Petersburg and transported to Kyiv by water.
The mace held by Khmelnytsky is a symbol of military authority.
The pedestal is made of gray granite blocks from the Kyiv fortress.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Saint Sophia Cathedral<1 km · SExplore →

Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People1 km · NExplore →

St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral3 km · WExplore →

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra5 km · NExplore →

St. Cyril's Church (Kyiv)6 km · SEExplore →

Kyiv Zoo6 km · SExplore →

Gryshko National Botanical Garden6 km · NWExplore →

Babi Yar Memorial Site8 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 Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky (8)

Bell tower🗼 tower

Bell tower in Kyiv, Ukraine, part of the Saint Sophia Monastery.

🕒 9:00-19:00

Refectory Church

Tempel in der Ukraine, a church building in the monastery complex.

Saint Sophia Cathedral

Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Saint Sophia Monastery🏛 museum

UNESCO World Heritage site No. 527 in Kyiv, includes Saint Sophia Cathedral and monastery buildings.

Modi

Gallery in Kyiv, exhibiting contemporary art.

House of the Metropolitan🏛 museum

Church building in Kyiv, Ukraine, former residence of the metropolitan.

A-house

Arts centre in Kyiv, a venue for creative projects.

Artarea

Arts centre in Kyiv, organizing exhibitions and events.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Khmelnytsky Monument located?

It stands in the center of Saint Sophia Square in Kyiv.

When was the monument unveiled?

The official unveiling took place in 1888.

Who was Bohdan Khmelnytsky?

He was a Cossack Hetman who led the uprising against the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

What material is the sculpture made of?

The equestrian statue is cast in bronze.

Where is Khmelnytsky pointing with his mace?

Originally it was meant to point threateningly towards Poland, but today it is often interpreted more neutrally.

Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky: where is it located?

Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky is located in Ukraine.

Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky: what is there to see?

Highlights include Bell tower, Refectory Church, Saint Sophia Cathedral.

Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky: why is it worth visiting?

The Monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky is a world-famous landmark located on Sophia Square in the heart of Kyiv.

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