Lychakiv Cemetery
Lvivska oblast
Established in 1787 following an Austro-Hungarian imperial edict, Lychakiv Cemetery became the principal burial ground for Lviv's intelligentsia, middle, and upper classes. Designed initially by Karol Bauer and expanded in the 1850s by Tytus Tchórzewski, it features a network of alleys and roundabouts that enhance its park-like atmosphere. The cemetery served various Christian denominations, including Roman Catholics, Eastern Rite Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox believers. Despite suffering significant damage during the Soviet period, when many sculptures were destroyed, it was declared a historical monument in 1975, halting further degradation. Restoration efforts began in the late 1980s, led by local activists, and the cemetery remains a key cultural and tourist site. It contains notable memorial sections such as the Ukrainian National Army Memorial, dedicated to soldiers including those from the SS Division Galicia, and the Field of Mars, a Soviet-era war memorial honoring soldiers who died during World War II and conflicts with the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. Today, Lychakiv Cemetery is not only a burial site but also a museum-reserve reflecting the city's complex history and artistic heritage.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lychakiv Cemetery is during spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the park-like grounds are most picturesque. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Guided tours are available and recommended to fully appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the tombs. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Respectful behavior is expected as it remains an active cemetery and a place of remembrance.
Faits intéressants
- •The cemetery was originally designed by Karol Bauer, head of the Lviv University botanical garden.
- •It includes the Ukrainian National Army Memorial dedicated to soldiers of the SS Division Galicia.
- •The Field of Mars memorial contains graves of 3,800 Soviet soldiers who died fighting Nazi forces and Ukrainian insurgents.
- •Many sculptures were destroyed during Soviet times but restoration began in 1987 led by the Lion's Society.
- •The cemetery serves multiple Christian denominations including Roman Catholics, Eastern Rite Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox Christians.
Histoire
Lychakiv Cemetery was founded in 1787 after an imperial edict required cemeteries to be located outside city limits.
Initially designed by Karol Bauer, it was expanded in the 1850s by Tytus Tchórzewski.
It served as the main necropolis for Lviv’s elite across various Christian faiths.
After World War II, the Soviet annexation led to the expulsion of many inhabitants and a period of neglect and destruction of monuments.
In 1975, it was declared a historical monument, and restoration efforts began in the late 1980s, preserving it as a cultural heritage site and tourist attraction.
Guide du lieu
Ukrainian National Army MemorialLate 20th century
A memorial dedicated to soldiers of the Ukrainian National Army, including members of the SS Division Galicia. It was established through efforts of Ukrainian patriotic organizations and veterans.
Field of Mars1974
A war memorial built in 1974 on the north side of the cemetery, marking the graves of 3,800 Soviet soldiers who died in World War II and conflicts with the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. Originally featured a poetic inscription honoring the fallen.
Contact
Téléphone: 0322 755 415