A 1966 Soviet color art postcard depicting the building of the Supreme Soviet of the Ukrainian SSR in Kyiv, surrounded by the lush greenery of the City Garden.
What is shown on the postcard
The image shows a general view of the monumental three-story building topped with a central glass dome and a flagpole carrying a flag. The main facade features a colonnaded portico and a Soviet coat of arms. In front of the building, there is an asphalted square and pathways running through the dense park greenery. Blooming chestnut trees and sparse silhouettes of pedestrians are visible in the foreground.
Historical note
The Supreme Soviet building was constructed between 1936 and 1939 according to the design of the prominent Ukrainian architect Volodymyr Zabolotny. The building’s architecture combines classical elements with Soviet neoclassicism. In 1940, the project was awarded the State Prize. During World War II, the building suffered severe damage and was reconstructed in 1945–1947 under the supervision of the original architect.
Present day
Today, the building houses the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the sole legislative body of the state. While the historical architectural style is preserved, Soviet symbolism (such as the coat of arms of the Ukrainian SSR on the facade and inside) was replaced with the state symbol of Ukraine—the Tryzub (Trident)—during decommunization.
Location (map)
Address: 5 Mykhaila Hrushevskoho St, Kyiv, Ukraine
Coordinates: 50.447300, 30.537500
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Building of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (formerly Supreme Soviet of the Ukrainian SSR), 5 Mykhaila Hrushevskoho St.
Questions and answers
- When was this building constructed? The building was constructed in 1936–1939 and later reconstructed in 1945–1947 following wartime damage.
- Who was the architect of this building? The project was designed by the architect Volodymyr Zabolotny.
- What institution occupies the building today? Today, the building is the official seat of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (the parliament).
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Kyiv from 1966.
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