Formation of the Street
Zamarstynivska Street is one of the oldest and longest streets in Lviv. It stretches from the northern edge of the city center towards the former village of Zamarstyniv, historically an independent settlement founded by German colonists in the 15th century. Its name originates from the estate of Sommerstein (Sommersteinhof), which gradually evolved into the Ukrainian form “Zamarstyniv.”
Initially, the street followed a trade and farming route used to access fairs, mills, and rural estates in the valley of the Poltva River. In the 17th century, it was known as Muravani Mosty (“Stone Bridges”), indicating early infrastructure developments.
From the 19th century onward, with Lviv under Austro-Hungarian rule, the street became urbanized in accordance with city planning schemes. Zamarstynivska developed into a key northern artery lined with two- and three-story tenement houses in Historicist and Secessionist styles.
In 1930, the village of Zamarstyniv was officially incorporated into Lviv, giving the street full municipal status. During World War II, parts of the street fell within the Lviv Ghetto. In the postwar period, the area was transformed into an industrial and working-class district under Soviet urban planning.
Builders and Styles
The building at 11 Zamarstynivska Street was constructed in 1910 in the late Secession style. Architects Michał Łużiecki and Adolf Piller designed a façade featuring symmetrical composition, meander friezes, and female mascarons. These are hallmark features of Lviv’s Secessionist school.
Who Was the Owner?
Historical records on the original owner have not been found. It is likely the building was developed as a rental property for urban professionals and the middle class.
What Does the Building Look Like?
It is a three-story structure with a symmetrical façade and two risalits adorned with mascarons. The balconies have wrought-iron railings, and the windows are framed with stucco moldings. The staircase features partial stained-glass elements.
Interesting Facts
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In 1991, the building was officially listed as a local architectural monument.
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The adjacent building, No. 11a, is often mistaken for No. 11 due to their similar style and façade design.
What Is There Now?
The building houses Secondary School No. 87. Some parts of the premises are used for commercial purposes, including a pharmacy and office spaces.
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: Zamarstyniv.
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Lviv in Space and Time: Urban Transformations.