A 1986 Soviet postcard depicting the building of the State Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre named after Ivan Franko in Kyiv.
What is shown on the postcard
The photograph captures the main facade of the three-story theater building, painted in blue and white. A metal canopy on columns is visible in front of the entrance. Soviet-made passenger cars (VAZ-2101, VAZ-2103) are parked in the square, and pedestrians are standing nearby. A green hill is visible in the background on the left, framed by tree branches. The word “КИЕВ” is printed in the lower left corner.
Historical note
The theater building was constructed in 1898 on the former Mering estate according to the design of architects Eduard Bradtman and Georgiy Shleifer for Solovtsov’s “Association of Dramatic Artists.” Since 1926, the venue has been the permanent home of the Ivan Franko Ukrainian Drama Theatre troupe, which relocated from Kharkiv. The building underwent reconstruction in the post-war years, including the addition of a third floor in 1959–1960 designed by architect A. O. Doroshenko.
Present day
Today, the building retains its architectural style and original function, serving as the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre. The square in front of the theater has been renovated and features monuments to Ivan Franko and actor Hnat Yura.
Location (map)
Address: Ivan Franko Square, 3, Kyiv, Ukraine
Coordinates: 50.445214, 30.527639
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the Ivan Franko Theatre building on Ivan Franko Square in Kyiv..
Questions and answers
- When was this building constructed? The theater building was constructed in 1898 on the former Mering estate.
- Who designed the original building? The original building was designed by architects Eduard Bradtman and Georgiy Shleifer.
- Which institution occupies the building today? Today, the building houses the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Kyiv from 1986.






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