Formation of the square
Markiyan Shashkevych Square was established in 1913 in Lviv’s Citadel District on a former vacant lot. Initially intended to host a People’s House designed by Ivan Levynskyi, the plan was never realized. Instead, the square developed around Shashkevych’s monument (restored in 1991), serving as a civic space for cultural, public, and Soviet-era events. It lies at the intersection of Doroshenka, Bandera, and Stavropihiyska streets, and remains a symbolic urban node
Builders and style
The residential building at No. 1 was erected in 1911–1912 by architects Filimon Levytskyi and Yosyp Delkevyj. This four-story brick structure, characteristic of Ukrainian Modern with Secessionist touches, features a light-plastered façade, symmetrical windows, understated stucco decoration, and an arched entrance portal. It was designed to harmonize with the square and its public functions
Who was the owner?
Initially commissioned by organizations planning the cultural center. During the interwar period, it served residential and office purposes. Post-WWII, the building was nationalized and from the late 1940s housed the district committees of the Communist Party and Komsomol. Today it is home to the Main Territorial Department of Justice—Lviv Region and is municipally owned
What does the building look like?
The four-story building with a basement features a light-colored, plastered façade with symmetrical window layouts. The central entrance has an arched portal. Decorative friezes and window moldings adorn the façade. An arched courtyard entrance leads to service annexes. While some interiors were modified during the mid-20th century, the external appearance has largely retained its original character
Interesting facts
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In 1986, a memorial plaque was installed on the façade to mark Shashkevych’s 175th anniversary.
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It is now occupied by the regional justice authority and preserves its historical design.
What is there now?
Currently, it hosts the Main Territorial Department of Justice for Lviv Region. The square is a landscaped pedestrian space with benches, lighting, and greenery.
References
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I. Krypyakevych. Historical Walks around Lviv
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Filimon Levytskyi and Yosyp Delkevyj: Architectural Heritage of Shashkevych Square
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Center for Urban History. Ivan Levynskyi and Ukrainian Modern