Church of Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ | Lviv

The Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Lviv is a historically and architecturally significant religious building that embodies a rich blend of cultural influences and styles, reflecting Lviv’s diverse past. It is a key landmark in the city’s Old Town, known for its impressive design, artistic interior, and complex history.

Historical Background

Construction and Original Purpose: The church was originally built between 1703 and 1731 as the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity by the Trinitarian Order. It was designed in the style of French Classicism, which was relatively rare for the region at the time, and featured a Baroque interior.

Monastery Closure and Usage Changes: In 1783, under Emperor Joseph II’s reforms, the Trinitarian monastery was dissolved. Subsequently, the church was repurposed as a university library for Lviv University, marking a significant shift from religious to educational function.

Damage and Reconstruction: During the revolutionary events of the Spring of Nations in 1848, the church was heavily damaged by Austrian artillery fire. Later, between 1875 and 1898, a comprehensive reconstruction was undertaken under architect Sylvester Havryshkevych. This renovation transformed the building into a Greek Catholic church, honoring the spiritual traditions of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic community. The church was reconsecrated on April 29, 1906, by Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, a leading figure in Ukrainian religious and cultural life.

Architectural Features

Style: The church represents an eclectic mix of architectural styles, predominantly French Classicism combined with Baroque and Revival elements from the late 19th century. This blend results in a unique aesthetic that stands out in Lviv’s architectural landscape.

Structure: It is built as a basilica with three naves and an elongated semicircular apse. The church is constructed from stone and plastered, with façades divided by pilasters creating a rhythmic architectural pattern.

Domes: One of the church’s defining features is its three domes. The central dome opens up to the interior, allowing natural light and emphasizing verticality. Two smaller domes crown the façade’s towers, adding balance and visual interest.

Façade Details: The main portal is framed by columns and topped with a developed cornice. Arched windows punctuate the façades, harmonizing with the classical design while allowing ample light into the interior.

Interior Art and Decoration

Iconostasis: The iconostasis, crafted by artist Tadeusz Popiel between 1900 and 1901, serves as the focal point inside the church. It is a richly decorated wooden screen adorned with icons, which separates the nave from the sanctuary, in accordance with Eastern Christian tradition.

Artwork: The church houses works from prominent artists such as Kornylo Ustiyanovych, Tadeusz Popiel, Tomasz Kopystynski, and sculptor Leonard Marconi. Their contributions include murals, sculptures, and decorative elements that enhance the spiritual atmosphere.

Stained Glass Windows: Created in the late 19th century by an Innsbruck studio, these windows depict Ruthenian saints and biblical scenes. The designs were based on sketches by Anton Pylychowski, and the colored glass adds a vibrant, contemplative light to the interior.

Religious and Cultural Significance

The Church of the Transfiguration holds an important place for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic community in Lviv and symbolizes the city’s religious diversity. Its transformation from a Roman Catholic monastery church to a Greek Catholic parish reflects broader historical changes in Lviv’s demographic and religious landscape.

The church also serves as a cultural monument, representing the architectural and artistic synthesis characteristic of Lviv’s multicultural heritage.

Visiting the Church

Location: The church is located at 21 Krakivska Street in Lviv’s Old Town, close to the bustling Market Square (Rynok Square).

Hours: Open daily, generally from early morning until early evening.

Accessibility: Easily reachable on foot from central Lviv or by tram.

Experience: Visitors can admire both the exterior’s architectural details and the richly decorated interior. The calm, contemplative atmosphere invites reflection, and the church often hosts religious services and cultural events.

Summary

The Church of the Transfiguration in Lviv is a unique historical monument combining classical, Baroque, and revival architectural styles with rich artistic decoration. Its layered history—from a Roman Catholic monastery church to a Greek Catholic spiritual center—mirrors Lviv’s complex cultural tapestry. The church stands today not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the city’s religious and artistic heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience centuries of architectural and cultural evolution.