This Soviet postcard from 1981 depicts Bohdan Khmelnytsky Square in Kyiv, featuring the monument to the Hetman and the architectural ensemble of Saint Sophia’s Cathedral.
What is shown on the postcard
In the foreground, a public garden with well-maintained flowerbeds and lawns is visible, featuring a bronze equestrian monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky on a granite pedestal. In the background rises the four-tiered blue and white bell tower of Saint Sophia’s Cathedral with its golden dome, with the cathedral’s domes visible behind it. To the right stand multi-story residential buildings, with a parking lot of Ikarus tour buses and Soviet passenger cars in front of them.
Historical note
In 1981, the square was named after Bohdan Khmelnytsky (historically known as Sofiiska Square). It is one of the oldest squares in the city, formed on the field in front of Saint Sophia’s Cathedral. The monument to Bohdan Khmelnytsky, created by sculptor Mikhail Mikeshin, was inaugurated here in 1888 during the celebrations of the 900th anniversary of the Baptism of Rus. In the Soviet era, the square served as a venue for public events and a major tourist hub.
Present day
Today, the square has regained its historical name, Sofiiska (Sophia) Square. The architectural complex of Saint Sophia’s Cathedral is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The square is now a pedestrian zone, free of bus parking, and serves as a traditional location for city festivals, New Year celebrations, and official events.
Location (map)
Address: Sofiiska Square, Kyiv, Ukraine
Coordinates: 50.453600, 30.516400
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Monument on Sofiiska Square in Kyiv.
Questions and answers
- What was the square called in 1981? In 1981, the square was named Bohdan Khmelnytsky Square.
- Which monument is shown in the postcard? The postcard shows the bronze equestrian monument to Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky, unveiled in 1888.
- What historical building is visible in the background? The bell tower and domes of Saint Sophia’s Cathedral are visible in the background.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Kyiv from 1981.
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