Formation of the Street
Petra Doroshenka Street, formerly known as Sykstuska Street, is one of Lviv’s oldest thoroughfares, with origins tracing back to the 15th century. Initially, it served as a road leading from the medieval city walls to the estate of Erazm Sykst, a prominent physician and burgomaster of Lviv in the early 17th century. The street’s name, Sykstuska, was derived from his surname.
Over the centuries, the street underwent several name changes, reflecting the city’s complex political history. In 1938, it was renamed Obrony Lwowa (“Defense of Lviv”) to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the November battles. During the German occupation from 1941 to 1944, it reverted to Sykstusstrasse. In the Soviet era, it was called Zhovtneva (“October”) until 1992, when it was renamed in honor of Hetman Petro Doroshenko, a 17th-century Ukrainian Cossack leader.
The street has been a witness to significant historical events. In November 1918, during the Polish-Ukrainian War, fierce fighting occurred near the Main Post Office located on this street. Photographs from that period depict civilians passing by Ukrainian barricades on Sykstuska Street during a temporary armistice.
Architecturally, Doroshenka Street showcases a blend of styles, including Historicism, Art Nouveau (Secession), and Constructivism. In the early 20th century, eclectic rental buildings were partially replaced by Jugendstil structures, and later by Constructivist ones. The street also features notable examples of Hutsul Secession, a unique architectural style that combines Austro-Hungarian Secession with Carpathian highlander (Hutsul) motifs.
The introduction of an electric tram line in 1894 further enhanced the street’s significance, connecting the Central Train Station to various parts of the city, including the Galician County Fair in Sofijówka and Lychakiv.
Builders and Styles
The building at 19 Doroshenka Street, known as the “Landau House,” was constructed in 1909 based on a design by architect Volodymyr Pidhorodetskyi for banker Edward Landau. The structure is executed in the late Historicism style with elements of Neo-Baroque. The facade is adorned with rich stucco and sculptures.
Who is the Owner?
The original owner of the building was banker Edward Landau.
What Does the Building Look Like?
The four-story building features a richly decorated facade with Corinthian columns, balconies with wrought-iron railings, and six allegorical sculptures symbolizing “War,” “Peace,” “Science,” “Art,” “Labor,” and “Trade.” The interior preserves stucco ornamentation.
Interesting Facts
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The sculptures on the facade were created by Lviv sculptor Petro Viitovych.
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In 2020, restoration work began on the building’s facade, including the sculptures.
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The building is a local architectural monument.
What Is There Now?
Currently, the building remains residential, with commercial premises on the ground floor housing shops, beauty salons, and other service establishments.
References
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Doroshenka St. 19 – Residential Building | Interactive Lviv
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Building at 19 Doroshenka Street (Lviv) – Wikipedia
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Neo-Baroque Palace for Banker Landau
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Restoration of the Architectural Monument at 19 Doroshenka Street
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LLC “GAL-LEOBUD” – Opendatabot