Chapel of the Boim Family | Lviv

The Chapel of the Boim Family in Lviv is a remarkable architectural and historical monument, known for its rich artistic decoration and unique place in the city’s cultural heritage. It stands out as one of the most important examples of late Renaissance architecture in Ukraine.

Historical Background

Founding Family:
The chapel was commissioned by Jerzy (George) Boim, a wealthy Hungarian merchant and prominent citizen of Lviv, and was completed by his son, Paweł Jerzy Boim, between 1609 and 1615. The Boims were influential in Lviv’s civic and commercial life, with George Boim serving as a city councilor and even mayor.

Purpose:
Built as a private family chapel and mausoleum, it was meant to serve as the burial place for the Boim family and a place for private worship. Over time, it became a significant religious site adjacent to the Latin Cathedral in Lviv’s Cathedral Square.

Architectural Features

Style and Design:
The chapel was designed by the architect Andrzej Bemer in the late Renaissance style, with influences from the Sigismund’s Chapel at Wawel Cathedral in Kraków. It is a compact, square-shaped building topped by a dome and a lantern, capped with a sculpture of the Sorrowful Christ.

Facade Details:
The most striking feature is the chapel’s western facade, richly decorated with intricate stone reliefs. These carvings depict scenes from the Passion of Christ — including the Crucifixion, the Agony in the Garden, and other biblical narratives — along with figures of Saints Peter and Paul. Because of the detailed biblical imagery on the facade, the chapel earned the nickname “Bible for the poor”, as it visually conveyed the scripture stories to those unable to read.

Sculptural Decoration:
The stonework combines Renaissance artistic style with local traditions, featuring expressive, dynamic figures and ornamental motifs. The facade also includes coats of arms, angels, and symbolic elements of Christian iconography.

Interior:
Inside, the chapel has a richly decorated coffered dome with stucco reliefs. The altar wall depicts the Agony in the Garden, complementing the exterior Passion scenes. The interior houses epitaph plaques commemorating members of the Boim family, elaborate sculptural work, and ornamental stucco decorations typical of the period.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Preservation:
The Chapel of the Boim Family is exceptionally well preserved, with much of its original architectural and decorative elements intact. It stands as one of the rare surviving examples of Renaissance architecture in Eastern Europe.

Artistic Masterpiece:
It is regarded as a masterpiece of late Renaissance art in Ukraine, combining religious symbolism, intricate craftsmanship, and local cultural influences. The chapel represents the artistic dialogue between Western European Renaissance trends and Ukrainian craftsmanship.

Religious and Social Role:
Apart from being a family mausoleum, the chapel served as a private worship place for the Boims and their associates, reflecting the practice of wealthy merchant families sponsoring elaborate religious buildings.

Location and Visiting Information

Location:
The chapel is situated at 1 Cathedral Square, right next to Lviv’s Latin Cathedral, making it easy to visit alongside other historic city landmarks.

Opening Hours:
Typically open Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on weekends from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Admission:
Admission fees are modest, with adults paying around 10 UAH and children 5 UAH.

Guided Tours:
Visitors can explore the chapel independently or join guided tours that explain the detailed symbolism and history behind the art and architecture.

Why Visit the Chapel of the Boim Family?

It offers a rare, intact example of late Renaissance architecture and sculpture in Eastern Europe.

The richly detailed facade provides a visual biblical narrative that is unique and captivating.

The chapel is deeply connected to Lviv’s history, reflecting the city’s multicultural and religious heritage.

Its location next to the Latin Cathedral makes it a convenient and essential stop on any historic tour of Lviv.

In summary, the Chapel of the Boim Family is a cultural gem in Lviv, combining artistic brilliance, historical depth, and spiritual significance. It offers visitors a chance to step into the past and appreciate the craftsmanship and religious devotion of a prominent Lviv merchant family from the early 17th century.