On December 1, 2023, the Residence of St. Nicholas will start operating in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve. It will be located in the Great Lavra bell tower, which has become accessible to Kyiv residents and guests for the first time in 30 years.
That’s according to the National Reserve press service.
“All those who wish will be able not only to write a letter to St. Nicholas, but also to experience the magical power of the arch of wishes, standing under it and making their most cherished wishes. Visitors to the Residence will also be able to meet St. Nicholas and take a commemorative photo,” the report reads.
Visitors will also be able to view the Christmas and New Year creations of artists of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine, Kyiv State Academy of Decorative and Applied Arts and Design, original works of the Ukrainian Quilter’s Association, and some touching children’s drawings of the Little Prince Art Studio.
The residence will be open every Saturday and Sunday, as well as December 6, 19, and 25 from 11:00 to 16:00 at 9 Lavrska St.
Group visits are available by prior arrangement (Wednesday through Friday). Contact: (044) 406-63-59; 406-63-66; 050-276-00-94.
It was previously reported that on November 22, the Great Lavra bell tower became available for excursions on the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve. Its restoration has been ongoing since 2012.
The belfry was built in the 18th century on the site of an old wooden one, which had been destroyed in 1718 by a great fire. In the 1930s, it lost most of its bells, and during the Second World War it was significantly damaged by fire.
