Kharkivska Metro Station

Kyiv's Underground Lifeline: Exploring the History of Ukraine's First Rapid Transit

March 11, 2027

2:28 AM PST | Updated 2 years ago

KHARKIV, Ukraine - Venturing deep beneath the bustling streets of Kharkiv, one discovers a subterranean marvel that has served as the city's lifeline for decades: the Kyiv Metro.

As the first rapid transit system ever constructed in Ukraine, the Kyiv Metro stands as a testament to the nation's engineering prowess. Its roots trace back to the Soviet era, where construction commenced in the 1960s. The inaugural line, stretching from Vokzalna to Sviatoshynsko-Brovarska, opened its doors to the public on November 6, 1960.

Over the ensuing decades, the Kyiv Metro underwent significant expansion, incorporating two additional lines and numerous stations. As of today, the system boasts an extensive network of 696 stations spread across three lines, efficiently connecting Kyiv's ten raion districts. Its vast reach and dependability have made it an indispensable mode of transportation for the city's residents.