Plizio Visual Lab

St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
cathedral
—°7
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral (Ukraine)

Weather…

St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral in Kyiv is a prominent Gothic Revival structure built between 1899 and 1909. While originally designed by Stanisław Wołowski, the project was extensively modified and overseen by the famous architect Władysław Horodecki, often called the 'Gaudi of Kyiv.' The cathedral is distinguished by its two 60-meter-tall spires and intricate facade decorations made from reinforced concrete, a pioneering technique at the time. After its closure by Soviet authorities in 1938, the building was used for storage and later as a radio jamming station. In 1980, it was converted into the National House of Organ and Chamber Music, featuring a custom-built organ with nearly 4,000 pipes. Despite a significant fire in 2021 that damaged the organ and interior, the cathedral remains a vital landmark and a center for the city's Catholic community.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-519161922211582-4
Rain mm434242416773655048504550

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral in Kyiv is a Neo-Gothic building that is usually open for visits. The interior can often be seen on guided tours or during services.
🕒
Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily, with set times for services and visits. On holidays and Sundays, opening hours are often extended.
📷
Photography
Photography indoors is usually allowed without flash, sometimes for a small fee. The two 60-meter towers are a popular outdoor subject.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit to the cathedral takes about 30 to 45 minutes to admire the architecture and interior. If you attend an organ concert, allow an extra hour.
Combine with
The cathedral is in central Kyiv near the train station and can be combined with other sights like the Botanical Garden or National Museum. A walk along Velyka Vasylkivska Street is also worthwhile.
🧭
Getting there
The cathedral is accessible by metro (Lybidska or Palats Sportu station) and then on foot. From Kyiv-Pasazhyrskyi main station it's about a 15-minute walk.
💡
Insider tip
Attend an organ concert in the cathedral, which is renowned for its excellent acoustics. The schedule is often available online in advance.

Geography

Coordinates
50.42720, 30.51750

Facts

  • The cathedral was consecrated on December 6, 1909.
  • Its twin spires stand at a height of 60 meters (197 feet).
  • It was the second Roman Catholic cathedral built in Kyiv.
  • The 1980 organ installation included a total of 3,945 pipes.
  • Soviet authorities used the building as a warehouse after 1938.
  • A 2021 fire caused by an electrical short circuit damaged the interior.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral (7)

St. Nicholas Cathedral

Catholic church in Kyiv, Ukraine, a notable Neo-Gothic building.

Contemporary Art Center M17

Contemporary art center in Kyiv.

Kyiv Operetta

Theatre in Kyiv, Ukraine, staging operettas and musicals.

Kaponir 2 (kaminna zala)

Room in the Kyiv fortress, former casemate building.

Kaponir 1

Part of the Kyiv fortress, a former defensive structure.

Kyiv fortress🏰 castle

Complex of fortifications in Kyiv, historic fortress.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which denomination does St. Nicholas Cathedral belong to?
It is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Kyiv.
In what architectural style was it built?
The cathedral is an outstanding example of Neo-Gothic style.
Who was the architect?
It was built in the early 20th century according to the plans of Wladyslaw Horodecki.
Are organ concerts held there?
Yes, the building served for a long time as the House of Organ and Chamber Music.
Was there a recent fire in the church?
A fire broke out in September 2021, damaging the organ and parts of the interior.
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral: where is it located?
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral is located in Ukraine.
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Nicholas Cathedral, Organ Hall, Contemporary Art Center M17.
St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Ukraine →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

More places