Old Cathedral of St. Sophia, Catholic cathedral in Podil district, Kyiv, Ukraine.
The Old Cathedral of St. Sophia is a Catholic church in the Podil district with five naves, multiple apses, and characteristic pointed arches in Gothic style. These architectural features extend throughout the entire structure.
Ivan Hryhorovych-Barskyi designed this church in 1744, combining architectural principles from Eastern Europe and Western Catholic traditions. The building emerged during a period when such mixed style forms were innovative in the region.
The interior blends Catholic religious symbols with local artistic traditions from the 18th century. You can see how Western religious forms mix with Ukrainian design choices throughout the space.
You can enter through the main entrance on Kontraktova Square and join guided tours during regular opening hours. It helps to check current visiting conditions beforehand to avoid any surprises.
The church preserves original water systems from the 18th century designed by Hryhorovych-Barskyi, including a historic fountain structure on the grounds. This innovative system from the building's era has survived to the present day.
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