Church of the Tithes
Religious Site Kyiv's earliest stone church, medieval royal funerary site
Commissioned in the late 10th century, the Church of the Tithes (Desiatynna) was Kyiv’s first stone church; later destruction left archaeological remains and reconstructions. Visitors explore the site for its foundational role in Kyivan Rus and nearby historic streets.
The Church of the Tithes (Desiatynna Church) was the first stone church in Kyiv, founded by Prince Volodymyr at the end of the 10th century (around 989-996). It served as a major Christian landmark for Kyivan Rus and is known primarily through historical records and archaeological remains.
The original church was destroyed in the 13th century during invasions and later phases of decline; the site has been the focus of archaeological study and later rebuilding attempts. Remains and commemorations mark its significance in Kyiv’s early Christian history.
The site is located in central Kyiv, within the historical core of the city where early medieval Kyiv developed.
- First stone church in Kyiv: Historically cited as the first stone church in Kyiv, founded by Prince Volodymyr (Vladimir the Great) at the end of the 10th century, with archaeological remains on the site.
How to Get to Church of the Tithes #
Located in the Podil/Pechersk vicinity of central Kyiv; reachable by metro (Maidan Nezalezhnosti or Zoloti Vorota stations depending on walking route) and a short taxi ride to the site.
Tips for Visiting Church of the Tithes #
- The site is archaeological and open areas may be subject to conservation restrictions - follow posted signs.
- Look for interpretive plaques near the site to trace the church's role as Kyiv's first stone cathedral.
- Visit the nearby National Museum of the History of Ukraine for deeper context on the site's early medieval significance.
Best Time to Visit Church of the Tithes #
Best spring and autumn for comfortable outdoor visits and combining with nearby museums.
Weather & Climate near Church of the Tithes #
Church of the Tithes's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -7°C to 25°C. Moderate rainfall (621 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -1°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. The wettest month with 87 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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