(essay)

Kyiv’s metro system is much more than just a way to get around — it’s a secret city beneath the city, filled with stories, art, and memories.
Most people have heard about Arsenalna, the world’s deepest metro station, buried over 105 meters below ground. But beyond this famous record, there are many more wonders waiting to be discovered.

One of the true jewels of the metro is Zoloti Vorota station. Time and again, it has been named among the most beautiful metro stations in the world — and for good reason. Here, colorful mosaics turn the station into an underground gallery telling the story of Kyivan Rus. The walls come alive with portraits of ancient princes and majestic churches like St. Michael’s Cathedral, the Church of the Tithes, and the Assumption Cathedral. Every piece of art whispers tales from a thousand years ago.

At first glance, Osokorky might seem like an ordinary station — but look again. In 2019, it bloomed into a vibrant art space. Murals created by artists from eight different countries now fill the station, united by a single idea: to speak of peace and equality through the language of art. Among the images, you can find a portrait of Bohdan Stupka, one of Ukraine’s most beloved actors, standing proudly among the colorful walls.

Olimpiyska station is my best metro station. It lives up to its name. Here you can see the Olympic rings on the walls, lined with red and blue pieces of glass. It is a simple and bright sign that evokes sport and competition.

The Kyiv Metro is more than just transportation. It is a space where each station tells its own story through architecture, art and symbolism.