A 1962 Soviet postcard capturing the White Arbor (Rotunda of Peoples’ Friendship) on Ivanova Gora in Poltava.
What is shown on the postcard
The photograph features the semi-circular colonnade of the White Arbor with eight Doric columns, showcasing an inscription on the inner side of the entablature. Groups of people in 1960s summer attire are standing on the observation deck and inside the rotunda. A circular flowerbed is positioned in the foreground, while the left side of the frame offers a panoramic view of the Vorskla River valley and the lower city.
Historical note
The original wooden arbor was built in 1909 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Poltava, situated on the site of the former Podil bastion of the Poltava Fortress. During the German occupation in World War II, the structure was destroyed. In 1954, a new reinforced concrete rotunda designed by architect Lev Vaingort was erected on the site, officially named the ‘Rotunda of Peoples’ Friendship’ to mark the 300th anniversary of the reunification of Ukraine and Russia.
Present day
Today, the White Arbor remains one of the primary symbols of Poltava and a popular lookout spot. The structure has been restored and equipped with a modern LED lighting system that synchronizes with music.
Location (map)
Address: Sobornyi Square, Poltava, Poltava Oblast, Ukraine
Coordinates: 49.589844, 34.568341
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the ‘White Arbor’ observation deck on Sobornyi Square in Poltava..
Questions and answers
- In what year was the rotunda shown on the postcard built? The reinforced concrete rotunda was built in 1954 to replace the destroyed wooden arbor, designed by architect Lev Vaingort.
- What stood on this site before the arbor was constructed? Before the construction of the first arbor, the Podil bastion of the Poltava Fortress was located on this site.
- What was the official name given to the structure in 1954? Upon its reconstruction in 1954, the structure was officially named the ‘Rotunda of Peoples’ Friendship’.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Poltava from 1962.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.