Lviv’s Architectural Treasures: Exploring the City’s Stunning Landmarks

Lviv is known for its beautiful architecture, reflecting its rich history and cultural influences. In this article, I showcase some of the most stunning Lviv’s landmarks and architectural gems that every visitor must see in the city. 

Rynok Square

Rynok square is not just the main square of Lviv, but the heart of Lviv’s historic center. The architecture here might remind you of other classical European cities like Krakow, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest!

There you will find beautiful Renaissance and Baroque buildings and a stunning city hall tower right in the middle of it all. To get a better look of the square, you can actually climb the clock tower – Ratusha (one of the best viewing spots in Lviv).  

Rynok square is a charming place full of charming restaurants and cafes that are located in some of the oldest and one of the prettiest buildings in the city. 

Location: Rynok Square, 1, L’viv, L’vivs’ka oblast, 79000

St. George’s Cathedral

St. George’s Cathedral is a beautiful and ornate Baroque church, with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and stained-glass windows. St. Georges’ is a Greek Catholic cathedral as until 2011 Lviv was the seat of the Greek Catholic Church in Ukraine. 

The church was completed in 1760 after nearly a decade and a half of construction. It is just a 15 minute walk away from the Rynok square.  

St. George’s Cathedral is one of the best examples of Baroque and Rococo styles, and it is definitely a place tourists should visit. 

This cathedral has played a significant role in Ukraine’s cultural and political history and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location: Ploshcha Svyatoho Yura, 5, Lviv, L’vivs’ka oblast, 79000

The Armenian Cathedral

The Armenian Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary is a stunning example of Armenian architecture, with beautiful decorations, carvings, and paintings.

The cathedral was built in the 14th century in the oldest part of Lviv (just 2 minutes walk away from Rynok Square). It is one of the oldest churches in the city.

The Armenian Cathedral is built in the Gothic style to which later was added some of the Renaissance and Baroque parts. 

Location: Virmens’ka St, 7/13, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, 79000

The Dominican Church and Monastery

The Dominican church, also known as the church of the Holy Eucharist is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with a beautiful rose window, frescoes, and a stunning bell tower.

The Dominican church is definitely the visiting card of Lviv. Besides the amazing artwork, ornate stucco work, frescos and sculptures in the church’s interior and exterior, one of the highlights of the church is its organ. 

The organ dates back to the 18th century. Its case is decorated with carvings and sculptures. The organ also features over 3 000 pipes.

You can also visit the dungeon underneath the church. Sometimes it hosts quite interesting exhibitions, plus it has a permanent exhibition that tells the story of this fascinating place.

Location: Muzeina Square, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, 79000

The Lviv Polytechnic University

The Lviv Polytechnic University is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau and neo-Gothic architecture styles.

The Lviv Polytechnic University includes many fine buildings, however the main building, which was built in the early 20th century is the most notable. It includes stunning decorations, sculptures, and stained-glass windows.

Location: Stepana Bandery St, 12, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, 79000

The Opera House

The Lviv Opera House is a stunning and well-preserved example of Renaissance architecture, with beautiful decorations, frescoes, and a stunning stage.

The opera house is one of the three famous Opera houses in Ukraine (two others are located in Kyiv and Odesa). 

Since the Opera house is located in the center of the Old town of Lviv, you probably won’t miss it. However I strongly recommend not just to have a look at the Opera’s facade, but also visit one of the shows. The interior of the Opera house is no less magnificent as the exterior.

You can buy a ticket to see an opera or a ballet in advance and have an amazing evening in one of the most important architectural landmarks not just of Lviv, but the whole country.

Location: Svobody Ave, 28, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, 79000

The Potocki Palace

The Potocki palace is a stunning example of Rococo architecture, with beautiful decorations, sculptures, and paintings.

Potocki palace was built in the 1880s by the Viennese architect Karl von Hasenauer. 

The exterior of the Potocki Palace is decorated with ornate sculptures, carvings, and reliefs, including images of mythological figures and historical events. 

The interior of the palace features a grand staircase, a ballroom, and a number of reception rooms. Nowadays, the Potocki palace is a museum on a regular basis. However, since 2021 the palace is also a place to host state visits. 

Location: Palats Hrafiv Pototsʹkykh, Mykoly Kopernyka St, 15, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, 79000

All these stunning landmarks and architectural treasures that I named above offer a rich and fascinating glimpse into Lviv’s history, culture, and architectural traditions. 

I hope you enjoy your stay in Lviv and that this article will be helpful for your introduction to Ukraine and its culture.

Lviv’s Architectural Treasures: Exploring the City’s Stunning Landmarks