Down Into The Metro In Kiev

Always a treat, riding and exploring a Soviet-built subway system. Maybe underground palace is a bit of a boast, but the system and stations in Kiev do feature ornamentation not usually found in the West.

Heading in. The Soviets liked to go deep. Nuclear protection?

Signage and station. Grand.

And grander. The Teatralna station, named for the nearby opera house.

Artistic details, sculpture and mosaic, peace and triumph.

Riding and navigating.

Modern advertising is creeping into the original designs.

The Motherland Monument, Kiev

Attack of the 50 foot woman? You can't help but be in awe of the mighty symbol of Kiev, the Motherland monument. She's actually much bigger - 203 feet and super shiny, made of stainless steel. Birthday? 1981.

Motherland stands atop the Ukrainian State Museum of the Great Patriotic War. Tanks for visiting.

Nearby in a reflecting pool, military sculptures.

Enjoying the whole presentation.