About This Site

Podil is one of Kyiv's oldest districts, located in the lowlands near the Dnipro River. Founded during Kievan Rus times, for centuries the district has been the center of crafts, trade, and cultural life of the capital.

Podil is a unique historic district of Kyiv that has preserved the authentic atmosphere of an old city. Located in the lowlands between the Dnipro and Old Kyiv Hill, since Kievan Rus times Podil has been populated by craftsmen and merchants. It was here that the urban culture of the capital was formed, trade life flourished, and masters of various professions worked. The history of Podil dates back to the 10th-11th centuries when the first settlements of craftsmen and merchants emerged here. In medieval times, the district became the trade and craft center of the city. Each street had its specialization - Pottery, Butcher, Shoemaker streets. The architectural ensemble of Podil was formed over centuries and has preserved buildings from the 17th-19th centuries. Today, Podil is a combination of historical heritage and modern urban life. Ancient churches are located here, including the famous Kontraktova Square - the heart of Podil, where fairs were held and trade contracts were signed since the 18th century. The streets of Podil have preserved cobblestones and the atmosphere of old Kyiv.

Historical Significance

The first settlements in Podil emerged during Kievan Rus times in the 10th-11th centuries. The name 'Podil' comes from the word 'valley' as the district is located in the lowlands near the Dnipro. In the medieval period, Podil was populated mainly by craftsmen and merchants, potters, blacksmiths, shoemakers, and butchers worked here. In 1070, chronicles first mention Podil in connection with a great fire. Over the centuries, the district repeatedly suffered from fires and floods but was rebuilt each time. In the 17th century, Podil received Magdeburg rights, which contributed to its economic development. Podil gained special significance in the 18th-19th centuries as a trade and industrial center. Kontraktova Square became a venue for large-scale fairs where merchants from all over the Russian Empire gathered. During this time, the modern architectural appearance of the district was formed with buildings in classicism and Art Nouveau styles.

Highlights

• ✓Kontraktova Square - Kyiv's historic trade center
• ✓Authentic 18th-19th century architecture
• ✓Ancient cobblestone streets
• ✓Churches and monasteries from different epochs
• ✓Museum of One Street
• ✓Gonchary - folk crafts street
• ✓Atmospheric cafes and restaurants

Photo Gallery