The arch is constructed from titanium sheets rather than stone or concrete.
The original design included a granite plinth with a sculpture of two workers holding the Soviet Order of Friendship of Peoples, which was dismantled in 2022.
During the Eurovison Song Contest held in Kyiv in 2017, the arch was covered in a temporary multicolored adhesive film to resemble a rainbow, a project titled 'Arch of Diversity'.
The site sits on the historic site of the Merchant's Garden, which dates back to the 19th century.
The structure is designed to function as an acoustic amphitheater due to its semi-circular form.
The Arka Svobody Ukrayinsʹkoho Narodu, formerly known as the People's Friendship Arch, is a 35-meter-tall titanium structure located on the right bank of the Dnieper River. It was originally constructed in 1982 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the USSR. Following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the site underwent significant de-Sovietization, including the removal of the adjacent monument depicting a Russian and a Ukrainian worker. The structure now serves as a symbol of Ukrainian national identity and resilience. It features a viewing platform that overlooks the Dnieper, Trukhaniv Island, and the left bank of Kyiv. The arch is situated within the Khreshchatyi Park, which contains paved walking paths and historical garden areas. It stands as a prominent feature of the Kyiv skyline visible from across the river.
From the pedestrian bridge connecting the park to the observation deck looking back at the arch framed against the river.
Visit the viewing deck at the edge of the park for a panoramic perspective of the Dnieper River and the parklands below.
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Khreshchatyi Park, which connects to the nearby Puppet Theatre.
Dress in layers, as the riverfront location creates significant wind exposure even on sunny days.
Attempting to climb or scale the arch structure itself, as it is strictly prohibited and dangerous.
