Klov Palace Kyiv: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Klov Palace

Nestled in Kyiv’s historic Pechersk district, Klov Palace is a magnificent symbol of Ukrainian Baroque architecture and a testament to centuries of cultural, political, and educational transformation. Built between 1752 and 1756 under the patronage of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the palace was originally intended to host the Russian imperial family and high-ranking clergy, reflecting the city’s rising prestige in the 18th century. Its symmetrical façade, intricate stucco work, and blend of European and Ukrainian folk motifs make Klov Palace a unique monument of Kyiv’s imperial heritage and artistic tradition. Although the palace now serves as the seat of Ukraine’s Supreme Court, limiting interior public access, its stunning exterior and lush gardens invite visitors year-round. This comprehensive guide explores Klov Palace’s layered history, architectural significance, visitor information, travel tips, accessibility, nearby attractions, and more, ensuring an enriching experience for all who want to discover Kyiv’s Baroque treasures (Wikipedia: Klov Palace; Kyiv Tourism Portal; Ukraine-is.com).

Contents

Historical Overview and Transformations

Origins and Early Construction

Klov Palace’s origins date to the reign of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna. Constructed from 1752–1756, the palace was designed by architects Gottfried Schedel and Pyotr Neelov, with master builder Stepan Kovnir overseeing its execution. Built to accommodate royal visitors to Kyiv, it reflects the city’s growing religious and administrative prominence (Wikipedia: Klov Palace).

19th Century Changes

Throughout the 19th century, Klov Palace adapted to changing civic needs. Initially used as a printing house by Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, it became the First Men’s Gymnasium (1811–1856), then served as a women’s religious school. The addition of a third floor in 1863 altered its original Baroque proportions, reflecting functional demands of the era (Ukraine-is.com).

20th and 21st Centuries

The palace suffered significant damage during wars and underwent several restorations. It housed the Museum of Kyiv History in the late 20th century and, since 2003, has served as the seat of the Supreme Court of Ukraine, symbolizing continuity and governance (Supreme Court of Ukraine).


Architectural Style and Design Principles

Klov Palace exemplifies the late Baroque style, blending European opulence with Ukrainian folk elements. Its two-story (later three-story) layout features a symmetrical façade, grand portico with Ionic columns, and elaborate stucco decorations. The Baroque emphasis on harmony, order, and decorative richness is evident throughout (Ukraine-is.com; Architecture Lab).


Exterior and Interior Features

Exterior

The palace’s façade boasts a central risalit, pilasters, pediment, and symmetrically arranged windows. Originally surrounded by extensive orchards and gardens, the site integrates architecture with lush landscaping—a hallmark of Baroque design. The location’s linden trees lent their name to the prestigious Lypki district (Ukraine-is.com).

Interior

Though much of the original interior was lost to fire and subsequent renovations, surviving features include stucco moldings, gilded details, and a grand hall with a Baroque fresco ceiling. Soviet-era and Supreme Court adaptations have altered some historic elements, but fragments of original artistry remain (Ukraine-is.com).


Artistic and Cultural Significance

Klov Palace stands out for its unique fusion of European Baroque motifs and Ukrainian artistic traditions. The main hall’s frescoed ceiling, the work of Ukrainian folk artists, exemplifies Baroque illusionism and ceremonial grandeur. The palace is also a cultural symbol for Kyiv, reflecting its history as a religious, imperial, and now governmental center (Ukraine-is.com; throughatravellens.com).


Structural Innovations and Evolution

Built with thick brick masonry for fire resistance and durability, the palace’s central axis and enfilade layout allow for processional movement—typical of Baroque palaces. The 19th-century addition of a third floor required structural reinforcement, demonstrating adaptability and resilience (Discover.ua).


Visiting Klov Palace: Hours, Tickets & Tips

Location

Klov Palace is located at 8 Klovsky Uzviz, Pechersk district, Kyiv, 01021. The nearest metro station is Klovska (Line 3, green), only a short walk away (Kyiv Metro Map).

Visiting Hours

  • Palace Grounds: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with hours subject to change for security or official events.
  • Interior Access: Generally restricted due to the Supreme Court’s presence. Occasional guided tours are available by advance arrangement or during cultural heritage events (Supreme Court of Ukraine).

Tickets

  • Grounds: Free admission.
  • Guided Tours: Advance booking required; nominal fee (100–200 UAH/person) may apply. Reserve via local tour operators or Kyiv’s tourist centers.
  • Photography: Exterior photography is permitted; interior photography is typically restricted (throughatravellens.com).

Accessibility and Travel Recommendations

  • Mobility: The palace grounds are mostly accessible, but some surfaces are uneven. Contact the administration for specific needs.
  • Security: Bag checks and ID verification may be required. Monitor local news and advisories for updates (throughatravellens.com).
  • Dress Code: Respectful attire is recommended, especially if joining interior tours.
  • No Onsite Facilities: There are no restrooms or cafés at the palace.

Events and Cultural Activities

While the palace’s governmental use limits regular public events, the gardens occasionally host open-air concerts, art exhibitions, and heritage festivals, especially during summer and national holidays. The palace is often illuminated for special occasions such as Independence Day and Constitution Day (Visit Kyiv).


Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with these nearby Kyiv historical sites:

  • Kyiv Pechersk Lavra: UNESCO World Heritage monastery complex.
  • Mariinsky Palace and Park: Official residence and ceremonial grounds.
  • House with Chimeras: Art Nouveau marvel.
  • Taras Shevchenko Park: Lively green space.
  • Verkhovna Rada: The Ukrainian Parliament building.

Each landmark is within walking distance, making Klov Palace an excellent starting point for exploring Pechersk (thecrazytourist.com).


Preservation and Modern Role

Klov Palace is protected as a national architectural monument. Restoration efforts safeguard its historical features while accommodating its role as Supreme Court headquarters. Heritage organizations and public campaigns support ongoing preservation (Supreme Court of Ukraine).


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Klov Palace’s visiting hours?
A: The grounds are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; interior access is limited.

Q: Do I need tickets to visit?
A: Grounds are free; interior tours require advance booking and may incur a nominal fee.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, for the exterior. Interior photography is generally not permitted.

Q: Is Klov Palace accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The grounds are partially accessible. Some areas have uneven paving.

Q: What other sites should I visit nearby?
A: Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, Mariinsky Palace, House with Chimeras, and Taras Shevchenko Park.


Visuals and Media


External Resources:


Summary and Recommendations

Klov Palace is a cornerstone of Kyiv’s architectural and cultural identity, representing the city’s imperial heritage and enduring spirit. Its Baroque beauty, enriched by Ukrainian artistry, offers a glimpse into 18th-century craftsmanship. Although interior access is restricted, the palace’s exterior, gardens, and central location make it an essential stop for history and architecture lovers. Combine your visit with other Pechersk landmarks for a comprehensive exploration. Stay informed about special events and guided tours via official channels and the Audiala app, and immerse yourself in the living legacy of Ukrainian culture (Ukraine-is.com; Visit Kyiv).


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Kyiv

1St Sadovy Lane, Kyiv
1St Sadovy Lane, Kyiv
3Rd Sadovy Lane, Kyiv
3Rd Sadovy Lane, Kyiv
75 Mm Schneider-Danglis 06/09
75 Mm Schneider-Danglis 06/09
8A Tarasa Shevchenka Lane
8A Tarasa Shevchenka Lane
Akademika Bulakhovskoho Street, Kyiv
Akademika Bulakhovskoho Street, Kyiv
Akademika Koroliova Avenue, Kyiv
Akademika Koroliova Avenue, Kyiv
Актор
Актор
Almatynska Street
Almatynska Street
Arch Of Freedom Of The Ukrainian People
Arch Of Freedom Of The Ukrainian People
Avtoparkova Street
Avtoparkova Street
Avtotransportna Street
Avtotransportna Street
Beresteiskyi Avenue, Kyiv‎
Beresteiskyi Avenue, Kyiv‎
Berezivskyi Lane, Darnytskyi Raion, Kyiv
Berezivskyi Lane, Darnytskyi Raion, Kyiv
Berezneva Street, Bortnychi, Kyiv
Berezneva Street, Bortnychi, Kyiv
Berkovets Cemetery
Berkovets Cemetery
Bilytska Street, Kyiv‎
Bilytska Street, Kyiv‎
Borova Street
Borova Street
Bortnychanske Cemetery
Bortnychanske Cemetery
Bortnytska Street
Bortnytska Street
Borysohlibska Street, Kyiv
Borysohlibska Street, Kyiv
Botanichna Square
Botanichna Square
Boulevard Leonid Bykov
Boulevard Leonid Bykov
Bratyslavska Street, Kyiv
Bratyslavska Street, Kyiv
Buzynova Street
Buzynova Street
Castle Of Richard The Lionheart, Kyiv
Castle Of Richard The Lionheart, Kyiv
Chernihivska Square
Chernihivska Square
Chervonoi Kalyny Avenue, Kyiv
Chervonoi Kalyny Avenue, Kyiv
Chocolate House, Kyiv
Chocolate House, Kyiv
Чорний Квадрат
Чорний Квадрат
Chornobaivska Square, Kyiv
Chornobaivska Square, Kyiv
Chornobylska Street, Kyiv
Chornobylska Street, Kyiv
Chyhyrynska Street
Chyhyrynska Street
Darnytska Square
Darnytska Square
Demiivska Square, Kyiv
Demiivska Square, Kyiv
Dniprovska Embankment
Dniprovska Embankment
Drahomanova Street, Kyiv
Drahomanova Street, Kyiv
Городок Пісочний
Городок Пісочний
Hamaliïvska Street, Kyiv
Hamaliïvska Street, Kyiv
Heofizykiv Street, Kyiv
Heofizykiv Street, Kyiv
Heorhiya Narbuta Avenue, Kyiv
Heorhiya Narbuta Avenue, Kyiv
Heroiv Dnipra Street, Kyiv
Heroiv Dnipra Street, Kyiv
Heroiv Upa Square
Heroiv Upa Square
Hetmana Kyryla Pozumovskoho Street
Hetmana Kyryla Pozumovskoho Street
Holosiivska Square
Holosiivska Square
Honoré De Balzac Street
Honoré De Balzac Street
Hostomelska Square
Hostomelska Square
House In Kudriavets
House In Kudriavets
Illinska Street, Kyiv
Illinska Street, Kyiv
Irpinska Street, Kyiv
Irpinska Street, Kyiv
Ivan Franko Square
Ivan Franko Square
Ivan Kavaleridze Museum
Ivan Kavaleridze Museum
Ivana Izhakevycha Street
Ivana Izhakevycha Street
Ivana Kotlyarevskogo Boulevard
Ivana Kotlyarevskogo Boulevard
Kerchenska Square
Kerchenska Square
Kharkivske Highway
Kharkivske Highway
Khata Na Priortsi
Khata Na Priortsi
Khvoina Street
Khvoina Street
Kiltseva Road, Kyiv
Kiltseva Road, Kyiv
Klov Palace
Klov Palace
Kobzarskyi Lane, Kyiv
Kobzarskyi Lane, Kyiv
Konotopskoyi Bytvy Square, Kyiv
Konotopskoyi Bytvy Square, Kyiv
Kontraktova Square
Kontraktova Square
Kosmonavtiv Square
Kosmonavtiv Square
Kostiantynivska Street, Kyiv
Kostiantynivska Street, Kyiv
Kotsiubynskoho Street
Kotsiubynskoho Street
Kuzmy Skryabina Lane, Kyiv
Kuzmy Skryabina Lane, Kyiv
Kyiv Academic Theatre For Young Spectators On Lipki
Kyiv Academic Theatre For Young Spectators On Lipki
|
  Kyiv Academic Workshop Of Theatrical Art 'Constellation'
| Kyiv Academic Workshop Of Theatrical Art 'Constellation'
Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Old Academic Building
Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Old Academic Building
Kyiv Railway Transport Museum
Kyiv Railway Transport Museum
Kyiv River Station
Kyiv River Station
Kyrylivska Archaeological Site
Kyrylivska Archaeological Site
Lach Gates
Lach Gates
Leonida Kadenyuka Avenue, Kyiv
Leonida Kadenyuka Avenue, Kyiv
Les Kurbas Monument In Kyiv
Les Kurbas Monument In Kyiv
Lesi Ukrainky Square, Kyiv
Lesi Ukrainky Square, Kyiv
Lesia Kurbasa Avenue, Kyiv
Lesia Kurbasa Avenue, Kyiv
Lesya Ukrainka Monument In Pechersk Raion, Kyiv
Lesya Ukrainka Monument In Pechersk Raion, Kyiv
Lesya Ukrainka Museum
Lesya Ukrainka Museum
Lisovyi Avenue, Kiev
Lisovyi Avenue, Kiev
Luhova Street
Luhova Street
Lukianivska Square
Lukianivska Square
Lybidska Square, Kyiv
Lybidska Square, Kyiv
Magtymguly Monument
Magtymguly Monument
Marka Vovchka Street, Kyiv
Marka Vovchka Street, Kyiv
Mezheva Street
Mezheva Street
Mezhovui Lane, Kyiv
Mezhovui Lane, Kyiv
Mezhyhirska Street
Mezhyhirska Street
Minska Square
Minska Square
Mlynna Street
Mlynna Street
Monument To The Magdeburg Rights, Kyiv
Monument To The Magdeburg Rights, Kyiv
Mostova Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)‎
Mostova Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)‎
|
  Museum "Cultural Wealth Of Ukraine"
| Museum "Cultural Wealth Of Ukraine"
Museum Of Hetmanship
Museum Of Hetmanship
Museum Of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
Museum Of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
Museum Of The Book And Printing Of Ukraine
Museum Of The Book And Printing Of Ukraine
Museum Of Useless Things
Museum Of Useless Things
Mykhaila Spivaka Square
Mykhaila Spivaka Square
Mykhaila Zahorodnoho Square
Mykhaila Zahorodnoho Square
Mykhailo Hrushevsky Memorial Museum
Mykhailo Hrushevsky Memorial Museum
Mykoly Bazhana Avenue
Mykoly Bazhana Avenue
Mykoly Ushakova Street, Kyiv
Mykoly Ushakova Street, Kyiv
Myroslava Popovycha Street, Kyiv
Myroslava Popovycha Street, Kyiv
Naberezhne Highway
Naberezhne Highway
National Museum Of Medicine
National Museum Of Medicine
National Museum Of The History Of Ukraine In World War Ii
National Museum Of The History Of Ukraine In World War Ii
National Philharmonic Society Of Ukraine
National Philharmonic Society Of Ukraine
|
  National Sanctuary "Sophia Of Kyiv"
| National Sanctuary "Sophia Of Kyiv"
Національний Історико-Меморіальний Заповідник «Бабин Яр»
Національний Історико-Меморіальний Заповідник «Бабин Яр»
Novokostiantynivska Street
Novokostiantynivska Street
Ntuu Kpi Polytechnic Museum
Ntuu Kpi Polytechnic Museum
Obolonska Square
Obolonska Square
Odesa Square, Kyiv
Odesa Square, Kyiv
Ohmatdyt
Ohmatdyt
Oleksandra Koshytsia Street, Kyiv
Oleksandra Koshytsia Street, Kyiv
Oleny Telihy Street, Kyiv
Oleny Telihy Street, Kyiv
Opanasa Slastiona Street, Kyiv
Opanasa Slastiona Street, Kyiv
Osokorky
Osokorky
Otamanskyi Lane, Kyiv
Otamanskyi Lane, Kyiv
Ozerna Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)
Ozerna Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)
Panikovsky Statue In Kyiv
Panikovsky Statue In Kyiv
Panteleimona Kulisha Square, Kyiv
Panteleimona Kulisha Square, Kyiv
Panteleimona Kulisha Street, Kyiv
Panteleimona Kulisha Street, Kyiv
Pasichna Street
Pasichna Street
Pecherska Square
Pecherska Square
Peter The Great House, Kyiv
Peter The Great House, Kyiv
Petra Hryhorenka Avenue
Petra Hryhorenka Avenue
Petra Sahaidachnoho Street
Petra Sahaidachnoho Street
Petro Mohyla Tilia
Petro Mohyla Tilia
Petropavlivska Square, Kyiv
Petropavlivska Square, Kyiv
Petropavlivska Street, Kyiv
Petropavlivska Street, Kyiv
Plekhanova Street
Plekhanova Street
Площа Сергія Набоки
Площа Сергія Набоки
Pokrovska Street
Pokrovska Street
Poliarna Street
Poliarna Street
Polova Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)
Polova Street, Kyiv (Darnytskyi District)
Popudrenka Street, Kyiv
Popudrenka Street, Kyiv
Pozniaky
Pozniaky
Prazka Street, Kyiv
Prazka Street, Kyiv
Pronya Prokopivna And Holokhvastov Monument
Pronya Prokopivna And Holokhvastov Monument
Pyrohoshcha Church
Pyrohoshcha Church
Salskoho Street, Kyiv
Salskoho Street, Kyiv
Serpova Street, Kyiv
Serpova Street, Kyiv
Sevastopolska Square
Sevastopolska Square
Shchekavytska Square
Shchekavytska Square
Shchekavytska Street
Shchekavytska Street
Slavutych
Slavutych
Slavy Square
Slavy Square
Sobornosti Avenue, Kiev
Sobornosti Avenue, Kiev
Sofiiska Square
Sofiiska Square
Solomianska Square
Solomianska Square
Sportyvna Square, Kyiv
Sportyvna Square, Kyiv
Square Of Ukrainian Heroes, Kyiv
Square Of Ukrainian Heroes, Kyiv
|
  St. Nicholas' Coastal Church
| St. Nicholas' Coastal Church
Statue Of Sholom Aleichem In Kyiv
Statue Of Sholom Aleichem In Kyiv
Sundial Of The Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
Sundial Of The Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
Sviatoshynska Square
Sviatoshynska Square
Sviatyshchenska Street
Sviatyshchenska Street
Syretska Street
Syretska Street
Taras Shevchenko Monument, Kyiv
Taras Shevchenko Monument, Kyiv
Tarasa Shevchenka Square, Kyiv
Tarasa Shevchenka Square, Kyiv
Teatralna Square, Kyiv
Teatralna Square, Kyiv
Toilet History Museum
Toilet History Museum
Troitskaya Square
Troitskaya Square
Tupolev Tu-143
Tupolev Tu-143
Ukrainian National Chornobyl Museum
Ukrainian National Chornobyl Museum
Valeriya Marchenka Square
Valeriya Marchenka Square
Varshavska (Kyiv Metro)
Varshavska (Kyiv Metro)
Varvary Masliuchenko Street, Kyiv
Varvary Masliuchenko Street, Kyiv
Vasylkivska Square, Kyiv
Vasylkivska Square, Kyiv
Victor Kosenko Museum
Victor Kosenko Museum
Vitovetska Street, Kyiv
Vitovetska Street, Kyiv
Vladimir Vysotsky Boulevard
Vladimir Vysotsky Boulevard
Vokzalna Square, Kyiv
Vokzalna Square, Kyiv
Voloska Street
Voloska Street
Voskresenskyi Avenue, Kyiv
Voskresenskyi Avenue, Kyiv
Vulykova Street, Kyiv
Vulykova Street, Kyiv
Vyrlytsia
Vyrlytsia
Vyshneva Street
Vyshneva Street
Yaroslavska Street, Kyiv
Yaroslavska Street, Kyiv
Zaplavna Street
Zaplavna Street
Zavodska Street, Kyiv
Zavodska Street, Kyiv