Poland extends a helping hand to Lviv: Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced the restoration of the Ludwik Heller Villa, known to locals as “Sunny.” This unique architectural landmark suffered damage during the September missile attack, which affected 188 buildings in the city, including historic villas, schools, and churches.
Built in 1905, the “Sunny” villa is a masterpiece by architect August Bohokhvalsky. Its style blends Zakopane Carpathian traditions with elements of Art Nouveau. Wooden carvings, decorative sun motifs, and a tiled roof make the building a true work of art.
On that day, Russia struck the Lviv region using Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and two Kinzhal missiles. In Lviv’s Frankivskyi district, 188 buildings were damaged, including educational and medical institutions, a church of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, and 19 architectural landmarks. The most affected area was Novyi Svit, a historic part of Lviv with a unique architectural heritage from the Austro-Hungarian era. It is here that the Heller Villa is located. The attack damaged the roof, destroyed original tiles, and deformed the windows and doors. During his visit on December 17, Tusk not only inspected the destruction but also pledged Poland’s financial support for restoring this Lviv gem.
The historic area of Novyi Svit, where the villa is located, holds special value for Lviv. In the late 19th century, it was the most expensive part of the city, with luxurious buildings that still amaze with their architectural uniqueness.
Poland’s assistance will be not only a gesture of support but also a symbol of shared efforts to preserve historical heritage in the face of war.
