The former capital of Ukraine: an impressive journey through the places of Kharkiv

The modern Ukrainian metropolis has a long history and an amazing number of architectural masterpieces. And even though Kharkiv is not safe for tourists now, as it is under constant shelling, the day will come when travelers will come here again. We will tell you which locations you should visit in the former capital of Ukraine.

Freedom Square

We recommend starting your exploration with the largest square in Ukraine and the sixth largest in Europe. It is very beautiful here. Particularly noteworthy are the buildings that "circle in a tank" around the pedestrian avenue. Here you can see the facades of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, the former Govorov Academy, the famous hotel of the same name, the Veterinary Institute, and the Palace of Children and Youth Creativity.

Before the war, mass festivities were regularly held here, with a festive Christmas tree and Christmas and New Year's fairs organized. Today, the events are suspended, and the location itself has changed significantly after an enemy shelling that claimed the lives of several people. But after the war, the authorities will reconstruct the surrounding buildings to make the square a popular vacation spot again.

Kharkiv cable car

To see the whole of Kharkiv in the palm of your hand, you should take a ride on the famous cable car. Its length is one and a half kilometers, and the highest point is located at an altitude of 30 meters. The ride itself takes about 20 minutes. During this time, you can really enjoy the scenery and take a lot of beautiful pictures.The transport system connects the Pavlovo Pole neighborhood and Sumy Street.

Gorky Park

One of the main locations of the city, which is loved by its guests and Kharkiv residents. It is crowded even in cool and frosty weather. After all, it is here that many cozy cafes are located, where you can drink a glass of mulled wine, a cup of coffee or a cup of warm herbal tea. It is home to the best attractions that give people much-needed positive emotions.

This is a center where life is in full swing. It is a place where people find harmony and let go of all the problems that have accumulated over the day.

French Boulevard

In this neighborhood, you start to feel like a Parisian, because the pedestrian artery is very similar to the famous Champs Elysees. The best restaurants, fashionable shops, and other establishments are located here. In winter, the largest ice rink is set up here. It also has its own Eiffel Tower, which, by the way, is no worse than the real thing. You can have a delicious dinner near it, accompanied by Kharkiv musicians.

House with a spire

There is also a piece of America in the former capital of Ukraine. The building is very similar to the architecture of New York and is considered the seventh wonder of the city. The house, which was built on Constitution Square, has an interesting design and combines several styles at once. The façade has features of late classicism, art deco, and Stalinist Empire.

Assumption Cathedral and Alexander Bell Tower

In the heart of Kharkiv there are two shrines that were built in the early eighteenth century. During the rule of the Bolsheviks and World War II, the churches miraculously managed to survive. The bombing almost did not affect the buildings; they were damaged by human ignorance. In 1924, the authorities closed the doors of churches, confiscated and even destroyed church property. Instead of icons or unique frescoes, the walls of the building were filled with radio equipment. Thus, the house of God turned into a studio.

They came to their senses after the end of hostilities. In the 50s, the first repairs were carried out, and later - restoration work. Nowadays, there is an organ music hall and worship services are held here. By the way, sometimes concerts of famous Ukrainian performers take place here.

Architects' Square

The 7 wonders of Kharkiv in miniature are located here. The wonders were chosen not by deputies and officials, but by Kharkiv residents themselves. To do this, they created a list of attractions and conducted a social survey. The winners were: Assumption Cathedral, Taras Shevchenko monument, Derzhprom, Glass Stream fountain, a house with a spire, Annunciation Monastery, and the Intercession Church.

By the way, there is another highlight of the city - a fountain dedicated to all lovers.

House "Goldfish"

In 1910, under the direction of architect Ginzburg, this bizarre but very beautiful building was erected. The engineer used reinforced concrete structures for the first time, and disguised their ugly outlines as sculptures of marine life.

It is interesting that once upon a time there was a shop on the ground floor that sold fresh herring, capelin, herring and other delicacies. The second part was reserved for the office of the author of the house, where design and construction services were provided.

Nowadays, it houses office space and ordinary apartments. But the house hasn't lost its charm. Hundreds of tourists come here. You should visit it too.

Kharkiv is a modern metropolis that surprises at every turn. Historical monuments are close to new buildings. And this picture does not cause dissonance or confusion. On the contrary, all the buildings are harmoniously combined with each other.

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