Inside a Former Military Church

In October, the SEI PSACEA hosted a tour for representatives of the scientific and educational institutes of the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies and local TV channels. The program included a visit to the remnants of a former military church, which was built over a century ago (in 1913) on land later transferred to the construction academy.

The history of this oldest structure in the district is similar to that of hundreds of similar religious buildings from the 1930s. The unique paintings and frescoes preserved in the former military church, known as the Holy Cross Exaltation Church—commonly called the “military” church by locals—have survived many hardships. Today, they are at risk of disappearing. During Soviet times, this church was converted into a sports facility and now serves as a gymnastics hall for students. The most sacred part—the altar with an image of the Savior—has remained hidden from public view all these years.

The issue of preserving this church has been raised repeatedly, as its partially ruined walls from the 1930s possess significant cultural and historical potential. If measures are not taken to conserve the paintings, they may be lost forever.

The artwork, executed in an Art Nouveau style, is a true architectural monument, remarkable for its detail and symbolism. Students actively study these frescoes as they carry not only artistic but also cultural value.

The academy’s efforts to restore and preserve the church are supported by both Ukrainian Orthodox clergy and benefactors. Several restoration projects are now ready, and the university administration hopes for assistance from the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Naturally, in times of war and economic hardship, a full restoration of the church is unrealistic, but preserving the invaluable paintings is a responsibility we must uphold.

Tours led by the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Oleksandr Kharlan, show that knowledge of this hidden heritage remains alive in the hearts of today’s generation, including student researchers. It is crucial to preserve this past for future generations.

Heritage is not only old buildings but also the stories they carry. In these challenging times, we must join forces to preserve spirituality and cultural memory.

More information about the former military church can be found through the following sources:

• “Church Outside the Window” or “The Story of One Church” (PSACEA Library)
• “Gymnasium or Church? Murals in Dnipro that survived Soviet-era destruction are now at risk” (Dnipro TV)