Formation of the Street
Oleksandra Konyskoho Street was formed in the late 19th century as part of Lviv’s planned eastern expansion toward the Lychakiv district. This area experienced rapid development from the 1880s due to urban growth and increasing population beyond the medieval city core.
Originally named Ochranekgasse (German for “Ochranek Street”), likely after a landowner or developer, the street traversed lands formerly occupied by orchards and vineyards owned by churches and private individuals. Its path partly follows local trails that historically linked Lychakivska Road with inner residential plots.
During the interwar period, the street became part of a dense urban grid, populated by townhouses for professionals, civil servants, lawyers, and physicians. In 1944, the street was renamed in honor of Oleksandr Konysky — a Ukrainian writer, jurist, and author of the spiritual anthem “Prayer for Ukraine.”
Today, Konyskoho Street retains much of its early 20th-century urban fabric and exemplifies the Secessionist architecture typical of that era in Lviv.
Builders and Styles
Building No. 9 was erected in the early 20th century in the Secession style. Its architecture features flowing lines, decorative stucco, bay windows, arched windows, and balconies with wrought-iron railings. The facade is symmetrically composed and richly detailed.
Who Was the Owner?
In the early 20th century, the building belonged to Alexander and Józef Elster — businessmen who owned a paper factory producing cigarette papers under the brands “Aba” and “Wiek Nowy.” They were influential figures in Lviv’s economic and civic circles.
What Does the Building Look Like?
The five-story tenement features a symmetrical facade, ornate balconies, and a rounded bay window. The entrance has an original wooden door with stucco adornments. Inside, the stairwells preserve stained-glass windows and wrought-iron railings.
Interesting Facts
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The building is listed as a local architectural monument.
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The interior retains original features, including mosaic flooring, glazed doors, and stucco ceiling decor.
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Konyskoho Street is one of the few in Lviv to remain almost entirely residential and unaltered by large-scale Soviet redevelopment.
What Is There Now?
The building serves as residential property, with some apartments rented out. Several spaces are adapted for offices and private studios.
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: Center and Lychakiv.
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Urban Development of Lviv During the Austro-Hungarian Era.