Formation of the square
Markiyan Shashkevych Square, located in Lviv’s Halytskyi District, emerged in 1913 on a former vacant site. The Ukrainian community had hoped to build a cultural center (“Ruska Talk” theater) designed by Ivan Levynskyi, but this plan was never realized. Instead, the square became a public space centered around the statue of Shashkevych, restored in 1991. The square functions as an urban node between Doroshenka, Bandera, and Stavropihiyska streets, maintaining its role as a hub for cultural events
Builders and style
Building No. 2 was erected in 1911–1912 by Ivan Levynskyi’s team, including Filimon Levytskyi and Yosyp Delkevyj. The four-story brick structure reflects Ukrainian Modernism with Secessionist influences: light plastered façade, symmetrical openings, mascarons, decorative friezes, arched entrance, and metal balconies. The vestibule likely featured ornamental plaster and stained glass
Who was the owner?
Initially owned by the society responsible for the proposed theater. During the interwar years, it served residential and office purposes. Nationalized in Soviet times, it later became municipal property. Today it is co-owned by its residents and managed via communal authorities.
What does the building look like?
The four-story structure, with a basement and light cream façade, features vertical ground-floor windows and decorative upper openings. The central arched portal and small balcony stand out. The façade includes mascarons and stylized vegetal friezes. A courtyard behind has an arched entry and utility wings.
Interesting facts
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The square and building were part of a unified unrealized project for a Ukrainian cultural center.
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A plaque honoring Shashkevych was installed on the building in 1986.
What is there now?
Today, the building serves residential and private office purposes, with first-floor commercial spaces.
References
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I. Krypyakevych. Historical Walks around Lviv
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Filimon Levytskyi and Ivan Levynskyi: Architectural Heritage of Shashkevych
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Center for Urban History. Ivan Levynskyi and Ukrainian Modernism