The Orthodox Temple Complex in Lviv

The Orthodox Temple Complex in Lviv

Architectural Team Leaders: Anna Wolberry / Anna Hots

Architects:  Roksoliana Mytsyk / Anastasiia Dzyhalenko / Iryna Baran

Vizualization:  Ivan YeremenchukActual Status: competitionProject Area: 1500 sq m

Location: K. Levytskogo str. 67A,  Lviv, UkraineProject Year: 2025

Description of project:

The Orthodox  Temple Complex in Lviv is intended to become a symbol of the spiritual resilience of Ukrainians, a center of spiritual and cultural development. The complex is envisioned as a hub of religious and social life, preserving the canons of Ukrainian sacred architecture while incorporating unconventional architectural techniques to reflect modern design trends.

The building serves as a dominant feature in its environment, with a focus on the main entrance, emphasizing the monumentality of the structure. The project involves not only the construction of a sacred space but also the integration of an interior exhibition featuring elements from churches in eastern Ukraine that were destroyed by war.

The symbolism of this concept lies in the idea that even during war, when the enemy seeks to destroy our faith, Ukrainians revive the temple as a testament to the indomitable spirit and with the aim of preserving Ukraine's historical and spiritual heritage.

Description of project:

The concept for the landscaping of the temple complex includes the installation of the Stations of the Cross, which carry deep spiritual, symbolic, and aesthetic significance. The journey along the Way of the Cross begins in the northern part of the park, ascending the hill clockwise and ending behind the church building. Each station represents a key event of Christ’s Passion:

1st Station – Jesus is condemned to death2nd Station – Jesus takes up His Cross3rd Station – Jesus falls the first time4th Station – Jesus meets His Blessed Mother5th Station – Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the Cross6th Station – Veronica wipes the face of Jesus7th Station – Jesus falls the second time8th Station – Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem9th Station – Jesus falls the third time10th Station – Jesus is stripped of His garments11th Station – Jesus is nailed to the Cross12th Station – Jesus dies on the Cross13th Station – Jesus is taken down from the Cross14th Station – Jesus is laid in the tomb15th Station – The Resurrection

The landscape design and natural terrain enhance the atmosphere of prayerful solitude through the use of greenery, paved paths, benches, and decorative lighting. The Way of the Cross serves not only a religious purpose but also an educational and social one—uniting the community and attracting pilgrims. It becomes a vital part of the temple complex, fostering spiritual growth and strengthening faith among visitors.

Between the stations, the path will intersect with a network of walking trails, offering broader views of the site and increasing accessibility.

Description of project:

The search for the silhouette of the church went through several stages. The core shape of the building is based on the dome, which is a fundamental element of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. After analyzing and refining this element, it was decided to split the dome in half and slightly modify its sides to achieve a more elongated form. As a result, the plasticity of the obtained structure on the main façade resembles an arch.

To emphasize the entrance and add symbolic meaning, three arches were incorporated as a representation of the Holy Trinity: God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. For a harmonious composition, the primary façade element—the arch—was repeated on the other façades of the building, symbolizing the spread of God's faith throughout the world.

The structure of the building is divided into two functional zones: the sacred area and the educational-domestic area. The southern slope is used for pedestrian access via stairs to the square in front of the church, while the northern slope is designated for the Way of the Cross with its stations.