Formation of the Street
Oleksandra Konyskoho Street lies within the historic Lychakiv district of Lviv, near the old route to Vynnyky and the former Austrian-era Lychakiv suburb. It began forming in the second half of the 19th century during Lviv’s expansion under the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Initially known as Ochranekgasse (from the German “Ochranek”), the street was a sparsely built area connecting residential and institutional zones around Lychakivska Road. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it saw a surge in development, mainly in the form of villas and tenement houses intended for rental to the middle class.
In the interwar period, the area was considered part of the upscale “beyond the Lychakiv Gate” district, close to schools, churches, and medical institutions. In 1944, under Soviet rule, the street was renamed after Oleksandr Konysky (1836–1900), a Ukrainian writer, publicist, and civil figure — and author of the words to Ukraine’s spiritual anthem “Prayer for Ukraine.”
The street’s architectural fabric retains its early 20th-century character, dominated by Secession and Historicism with notable neoclassical influences.
Builders and Styles
Building No. 9a was constructed in 1908, likely based on an individual project for a private investor. It blends elements of Secession and Historicism: floral stucco, wrought-iron balconies, profiled cornices, and a symmetrical façade composition.
Who Was the Owner?
There is no publicly available documentation identifying the original owner or developer of Building No. 9a. It was likely constructed as a rental income property for the middle class.
What Does the Building Look Like?
The four-story building features a high plinth. The central part of the façade is marked by a rounded oriel transitioning into a balcony. The second floor displays decorative stucco — garlands and mascarons. Windows are framed with molded surrounds; the roof is tiled with dormers.
Interesting Facts
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The street is named after the author of the words to the spiritual anthem of Ukraine — “God, Great and Only, Protect Our Ukraine” (“Prayer for Ukraine”).
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At No. 8 on the same street, the Notre Dame Sisters’ school operated from 1905, renowned for its quality education.
What Is There Now?
The building is currently used for residential purposes. Some apartments may be rented. No commercial activity is reported within the premises.
Bibliography
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Encyclopedia of Lviv. Vol. 2.
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Melnyk I. Lviv Streets and Tenement Houses. — Lviv, 2008.
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Architecture of Lviv: Time and Styles. XIII–XXI centuries. — Lviv, 2008.
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Historic Districts of Lviv: Lychakiv.
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Urban Heritage of Lviv: Between Classicism and Secession.