Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral: An Outline of the Research History

A comprehensive analysis of the research history surrounding Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral reveals significant shifts in understanding its original appearance and decorative execution. The study highlights how reconstruction models proposed over two centuries have evolved, challenging traditional assumptions about the cathedral's architectural order and the sequence of its mosaics and frescoes. Excavations have uncovered previously unknown parts of the structure, providing new insights into its construction phases. This work synthesizes key research problems—some resolved, others still debated—and offers a critical review of scholarly interpretations, contributing to a more nuanced appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Koreniuk, Y. (2023). Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral: An Outline of the Research History. Artistic Culture. Topical Issues, (19(2)), 17–28. https://doi.org/10.31500/1992-5514.19(2).2023.294619