Formation of the Street
Yakova Rappaporta Street is located in the Shevchenkivskyi District of Lviv, in the historical neighborhood of Klepariv. It extends from the intersection of Bazarna, Dzherelna, Shpytalna, and Sholom-Aleikhema Streets to Kleparivska Street. Over time, the street has had several names: Okopyska, Road to the Jewish Cemetery, Israelite Cemetery Street, Hospital Cross Street, and Bohdanivska Side Street. In 1871, it was renamed in honor of Yakub Rappoport (1771–1855), a well-known Lviv physician and philanthropist. Under Soviet rule, from 1946, it was named after Jambyl Jabayev, but in 1990 its historic name — Rappoporta — was restored. In 2010, the spelling was updated to its current form: Rappaporta.
The street has a rich history. It was once the site of one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Eastern Europe, first mentioned in 1414. The cemetery was closed in 1855, and the area was later developed. Today, the Krakivsky Market is located on the former cemetery grounds.
Building No. 7a
Builders and Styles
Building No. 7a on Rappaporta Street was constructed in 1907 according to a design by architect Salomon Rimer. The building is a vivid example of Secession-style architecture, featuring characteristic elements such as twisted columns framing the corner portal. The façade is richly decorated with ornamental details, giving it a striking appearance.
Who was the owner?
Historical data about the original owner of Building No. 7a is unavailable. During the interwar period, the building most likely belonged to a private owner and functioned as a revenue-generating tenement house.
What does the building look like?
The building is three stories high, with an asymmetrical façade typical of the Secession style. It is adorned with stucco ornamentation and balconies with wrought-iron railings. The entrance gate is made of wood and features carved detailing, adding to the building’s visual appeal.
Interesting facts
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The building is part of the historical ensemble of Rappaporta Street, which includes structures in the styles of Classicism, Secession, and Moorish Neo-Romanticism.
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Nearby stands the former Jewish hospital Beth Holim, constructed between 1898 and 1901 by architect Kazimierz Mokłowski in the Moorish style.
What is there now?
Today, Building No. 7a continues to function as a residential building.