The National Museum of the History of Ukraine is one of the most important and renowned museums in the country, with collections numbering over 700,000 artifacts. It houses archaeological finds, weapons, unique numismatic collections, ethnographic materials, early printed books, manuscripts, works of decorative and applied arts, painting and graphics, as well as rare relics of the Ukrainian national liberation movement of the 20th century. Each exhibit is a fragment of history that tells the story of Ukraine’s path from the earliest times to the present day.
Founded in 1899 as the Museum of Antiquities and Arts, it originally occupied a different building. From the moment it opened, the museum quickly became one of the key centers for the development of Ukrainian science and culture. The philanthropic Tereshchenko and Khanenko families played a significant role in its formation, supporting archaeological expeditions and helping to build its collections. During the period of Ukrainian independence struggles, the museum became an important hub of national enlightenment, preserving and promoting historical heritage at the moment when the modern Ukrainian state was taking shape.
The museum’s current building, constructed in 1937–1939 to the design of architect Yosyp Karakis, is itself an architectural landmark. Located near St. Andrew’s Church, on the site of Prince Volodymyr’s ancient citadel in the very heart of historic Kyiv, it offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of Podil and the Dnipro River from its terrace — a place where history blends with the unique beauty of the city.