According to the Rus Primary Chronicle, the founders of Kyiv were the brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv and their sister Lybid, the leaders of the Slavonic Polianian tribe. The city was named after the eldest brother, Kyi. Kyiv was founded in the latter half of the 5th, or the early 6th century.

Kyiv is situated on the picturesque banks of the Dnipro river. One half of Kyiv's territory is occupied by parks and gardens. It is one of the most beautiful cities of Europe.

There are many places of historic interest in it. Among them there are the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, the Golden Gates, St. Vladimir Cathedral, St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery, St. Sophia Cathedral famous for its ancient mosaics and frescoes, and other sights.