The State Architectural and Historical Reserve "Saint Sophia of Kyiv", known as the "Sofia Museum", is located in the center of Kyiv. The reserve covers an area of 5 hectares and features a magnificent monument of national architecture from the 11th to 18th centuries. The main structure of the reserve is Saint Sophia Cathedral, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a monumental painting of the 11th century. It majestically rises in the center of the complex.

Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv was built during the peak of Kievan Rus, a major East Slavic state that became the cradle for three nations: Ukrainian, Russian, and Belarusian.

The ancient Rus state reached its power under Prince Vladimir the Great (978-1015) and his son Yaroslav the Wise (1019-1054).

In 988, under Prince Vladimir the Great, Christianity was introduced in Kievan Rus, which played a significant role in the development of feudal relations, strengthening the unity of the state, as well as in the rise of culture and political ties with Byzantium and other European countries.

With the adoption of Christianity, active construction of stone Christian churches began in the Ancient Rus state. The best builders and artists of that time were involved in their construction, utilizing the artistic and technical achievements of the era. The churches were adorned with wall paintings and stone carvings, becoming true works of art. At the same time, important urban planning tasks were addressed alongside the construction of stone churches.

During the construction of the first stone church in the center of Kyiv, the Desyatynna (989-996), Prince Vladimir the Great significantly expanded and fortified the city's territory. Under his son, Yaroslav the Wise, active construction began in Kyiv. The territory of the Kremlin was increased more than eightfold and surrounded by new defensive walls. During this period, the metropolitan church, Saint Sophia Cathedral, was built, which became the main monumental structure of the city.