Golden Gate Metro Station is considered one of the most beautiful not only in Kyiv, but in the entire world. It was officially opened on December 31, 1989, and since then has become a true underground jewel of the capital. Located at a depth of 80 meters, it is among the deepest stations of the Kyiv Metro, and its architectural and artistic design has made it a hallmark of the city.
The station’s décor was created by architects Borys and Vadym Zhezherin, who sought to recreate the atmosphere of Kyivan Rus within the metro. The vaults and walls are adorned with more than 80 mosaics and decorative compositions designed by artists Hryhorii Korin and Volodymyr Fedko. History comes alive in these mosaics — from the legendary founders of Kyiv, the brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv, and their sister Lybid, to monumental churches and architectural masterpieces of the 11th century.
The images depict princes, chroniclers, builders, as well as unique architectural structures from the era of Yaroslav the Wise — Saint Sophia Cathedral, the Golden Gate, and the Church of the Tithes. The artists used traditional Byzantine and Old Rus’ motifs, and the mosaic decoration creates the feeling that you have stepped into an underground temple.
It is no coincidence that Golden Gate Station is featured in rankings of the world’s most beautiful metro stations according to leading travel publications. It impresses with its harmony of architecture and art, combining the grandeur of Kyiv’s thousand-year history with modern engineering achievements. Today it is not only a transportation hub, but also a genuine underground gallery, where every journey becomes a small excursion into Kyiv’s past.