Kiev Ukraine Refectory or Warm Sophia

overview

Refectory or Warm Sophia was situated to the south of St Sophia's Cathedral, this building acquired its present appearance as a result of repeated alterations. It was probably built in the second half of the seventeenth century, and originally had two storeys, each without internal divisions, and an undercroft.

In the eighteenth century the refectory was adorned with the characteristic Baroque platbands and pediment. In 1822 it was rebuilt to a design by Andrei Melensky and the floor of the upper storey was removed. In 1872 low aisles with lean-to roofs were added on either side of the refectory, to the design of Mikhail Ikonnikov. The Baroque decoration of the cupola, the stucco plant ornament, and the gilt cherub which crowns the building were retained intact.