This 1960 Soviet postcard features the grand facade of the summer cinema located in the Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Central Park of Culture and Recreation in Lviv.
What is shown on the postcard
The image shows the main facade of the cinema building, constructed in the Stalinist Neoclassical style. The front is dominated by a deep portico with columns supporting a triangular pediment. Inside the pediment’s niche, a sculptural group of three standing figures is visible, with the Ukrainian inscription ‘КІНОТЕАТР’ (Cinema) placed directly below. A wide ceremonial staircase with stone balustrades leads to the entrance. In the foreground, a man in a suit is walking down the stairs, while other visitors stand near the entrance. The building is framed by lush park trees.
Historical note
This cinema, later known as ‘Druzhba’ (Friendship), was built in the first half of the 1950s during the development of the new Park of Culture. Its design blended classical architectural elements with Soviet monumental sculpture. For decades, it served as a major seasonal attraction for Lviv residents to enjoy outdoor film screenings.
Present day
Following the dissolution of the USSR, the cinema closed down and remained abandoned for a long period, gradually falling into decay. Due to neglect and severe structural deterioration, the ruins of the former Druzhba cinema were completely demolished in the late 2010s, and the site was cleared.
Location (map)
Address: 4 Bolharska St, Lviv, Lviv Oblast, Ukraine
Coordinates: 49.826800, 24.025400
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the former Druzhba summer cinema in the B. Khmelnytskyi Park of Culture.
Questions and answers
- What was the name of the cinema shown on the postcard? The summer cinema in the Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Park was later named ‘Druzhba’ (Friendship).
- What architectural elements are visible on the building? The building features a neoclassical portico with columns, a triangular pediment containing three sculptured figures, the word ‘КІНОТЕАТР’, and a monumental staircase.
- Is the cinema building still standing today? No, the abandoned building fell into disrepair and was demolished in the late 2010s.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Lviv from 1960.
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