Kyiv Taras Shevchenko National University

Kyiv Taras Shevchenko National University – one of the oldest universities in Ukraine – was founded in 1833 by the decree of Nicholas I and became the sixth university of the Russian Empire.

The main building of the university is located in the center of Kiev on Vladimirskaya Street. This is an impressive four-storey building built by St. Petersburg architect Vikenty Ivanovich Beretti in the style of Russian classicism. The building is distinguished by simple strict lines of the monumental facade, contrasting with the majestic portico decorated with Ionic columns. But, undoubtedly, the most noticeable distinguishing feature of the building was the thick red color of its walls, which gave its name to this architectural monument.

There are many explanations for the choice of color for the walls of the Red Building. According to the official version, the red facades and black decor elements correspond to the color of the ribbons of the Order of St. Vladimir - patron of the university. Another version speaks of a mistake made when mixing ingredients of expensive Italian paint. Students joke grimly about the blood shed during the session.

Whatever the explanation, one thing is true: The Red Building of Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University is one of the most interesting sights of the Ukrainian capital.