Sophiyska Square is one of the oldest squares in Kyiv, originating during the time of Ancient Kyivan Rus. The square received its name after the construction of St. Sophia's Cathedral in 1036. Historically, it has been a hub for town meetings, city markets, trade fairs, and military celebrations. In the mid-19th century, the area was significantly expanded, and in 1888, a monument to the Ukrainian Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytskyi was erected here.

Numerous historically significant events have taken place in Sophiyska Square. It was here that the Central Council’s Universals were proclaimed and where the Ukrainian leader Hetman Pavlo Skoropadskyi was elected. In the early years of Ukraine's independence, the square became a focal point for political rallies, demonstrations, and socially significant events.

One of the largest actions in the world history, the "Live Chain" (also known as the "Ukrainian Wave"), organized by the political party Narodnyi Rukh Ukrainy(People's Movement of Ukraine), began here in the 1990s. This event continues to be held every January 21st as a symbol of Ukraine's national unity. Additionally, the main Christmas tree of Ukraine is set up in Sophiyska Square each year following the events of the Revolution of Dignity.