
Memorial Complex of Military Burials of Heroes of Ukraine
Location:
Lviv, Ukraine
Year:
2024
Design team:
V. Kudin, O. Riabova, M. Karnaukhov, T. Kozlovska, N. Besarab, O. Semenchenko, O. Sereda
The most distinctive element of the site was the central avenue, which ends at the Birch Cross. After the removal of graves that were located there, we propose to preserve this axis. However, the slope of the avenue was too steep to meet inclusivity requirements, so we leveled it to align with the ceremonial field.
By carving a horizontal trench into the ground, a mourning avenue is formed. Walking along it, on the right-hand side, one encounters a columbarium, 2 meters in height, topped with a reflective stainless steel plane that mirrors the sky. The left wall, opposite the columbarium, gradually transitions into the structure of the memorial's information center, housing essential services. Continuing toward the cross, the right side reveals a memorial to the unknown soldier, featuring a sculptural composition of soaring birds—representing the souls of fallen heroes, spirits no longer with us. Opposite this memorial lies an amphitheater designed to accommodate a larger audience during commemoration events. At the end of the avenue stands a small prayer hall.
From the prayer hall, a ramp ascends to the pedestrian alley, dividing the memorial park diagonally. This ramp provides barrier-free access to the amphitheater. The retaining walls of the avenue are made of concrete mixed with layers of soil from the site, symbolizing the years of our history lived through battles. The aim is for visitors to feel this connection while walking toward the memorial.
The memorial square has been raised by 15 cm, and instead of cobblestones, polished gray granite slabs have been used. The square is divided into a grid of uniform squares that serve a practical purpose for organizing large-scale events.
The Heroes of UPA Memorial Wall remains as is, with an extension added to cover a third of the burial area, creating a visual boundary between the memorial complex and the Lychakiv Cemetery. The staircase from Mechnykova Street to the ceremonial zone has been redesigned with inclusivity standards in mind (steps measuring 400x120 mm), and barrier-free access to the square has also been provided.
The area adjacent to Mechnykova Street is left open. Although the competition terms did not include parking, considering the current lack of parking, we propose exploring the possibility of an underground parking facility in this area. Preliminary calculations suggest that a 39-space parking lot could be accommodated here.
Mechnykova Street also includes bike lanes, in accordance with Lviv's bicycle network development program. However, due to the current width of the sidewalks, a comprehensive redesign of the street's profile is necessary.
A two-way bike lane is proposed along the pedestrian alley bordering Mars Field, separated from the memorial complex by a row of green plantings. Amenities such as benches, bike racks, and other landscaping elements are also planned for this area.
At the end of the pedestrian alley, along Kutova Street, there are self-occupied plots currently used as gardens. We propose retaining this function but organizing and making the plots accessible to the public.
We have further developed the suggested burial structure design providing solutions for different religions. Additionally, due to the complex terrain, we suggest placing grave structures on individual burial slabs. Paths to the burial sites will be made from grass grids to increase green space. Along the entire burial zone, a bench has been installed, also serving as a boundary separating the lowered central avenue.









