Andrey Sheptytsky National Museum

Nestled in the picturesque setting of Svobody Avenue, the Lviv National Museum stands as a beacon of Ukrainian art and culture. This grand museum, one of the largest in Ukraine, boasts an impressive collection of Ukrainian visual arts. It was established by the Greek Catholic metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, whose legacy lives on in its name. Originally conceived as a Church Museum, its purpose was to nurture and promote Ukrainian national culture.

The foundation of the museum's current exhibition is Sheptytsky's personal collection, which includes around 10,000 priceless works of art. Fast forward 25 years, and the museum's holdings expanded to over 80,000 exhibits. Today, it proudly showcases nearly 120,000 pieces of visual art. Among its treasures, you'll find the country's most extensive collection of Ukrainian icons from the 14th to the 18th centuries, along with medieval sacred and folk art: sculptures, manuscripts, engravings, old printed books, as well as pottery, bone, and metal works.

A true gem of the National Museum is its collection of paintings by renowned Ukrainian artists such as Ivan Trush, Oleksa Novakivsky, Kornil Ustiyanovich, and Elena Kulchytska, to name a few. The highlight of this artistic haven is the original works by the legendary Taras Shevchenko. The museum also features contemporary works by Lviv artists, adding a modern flair to its rich historical tapestry. If you find yourself wandering through Lviv, make sure to carve out some time to explore this cultural treasure trove. It's not just a museum; it's a journey through the artistic soul of Ukraine. And while you're there, don't miss the chance to stroll along Svobody Avenue, where charming cafes and street performers add a lively atmosphere to your visit.