Religious Sites in Ukraine

Religion has always been an important feature in the lives of Ukrainians. For centuries religious traditions have featured in local culture and this is certainly evidenced by the many religious sites in Ukraine. Churches, cathedrals, monasteries, synagogues and other religious sites are popular attractions for tourists visiting the country. From architectural wonders to more humble places of worship, the religious buildings in Ukraine give one a chance to ponder upon the country's history and culture through the ages.

Kiev is considered by many to be the hub of religion in Ukraine and was even referred to as the New Jerusalem. Christianity was brought to this important Ukrainian city in 988 AD. Soon numerous churches were constructed throughout the city, creating a panorama of beautifully designed domes and walls. Many of these fine religious buildings were destroyed or damaged during wars and the atheistic Soviet era. Fortunately, efforts have been made to restore a number of these ornate structures in Kiev. Wooden churches dominate the landscape in the Carpathian Mountains of Western Ukraine. The city of Lviv is home to a number of the more elaborate churches in the region.

Jewish religious buildings are also found dotted around Ukraine. There are just under 50 Jewish sites including burial and birth places of renowned Hassidic rabbis.

In this section of Ukraine.com you will become better acquainted with the most popular religious sites in the country. Be sure to visit attractions such as the St. George’s Cathedral in Lviv, where you will discover a sacred relic of the Virgin Mary. Definitely not to be overlooked is the St. Sophia’s Cathedral. This is Kiev’s oldest church and is an architectural masterpiece. The Kyiv Pecherska Lavra Monastery is very interesting to visit. It was originally established by two monks and quickly became a very important center of the Orthodox religion. The Jewish site of Uzhgorod Synagogue dates back to 1910 and was designed in the popular Romantic style. It is truly fascinating to see. Other religious sites in Ukraine to visit are the Dominican Abbey, Radomyshl Synagogue, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Yalta, the Church of the Tithes and St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral.

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