Church of Virgin Mary

The Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the oldest architectural monuments in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. Its exact construction date is unknown, but it is believed to have been built around the 17th century. The original wooden temple was ordered to be built by Andrey Pototsky, the founder of Ivano-Frankivsk. In 1669, it was replaced with a new stone structure in the Baroque style, which became a notable architectural landmark in the city. Interestingly, since 1980, the church has not been used for religious purposes and now houses the Ivano-Frankivsk Art Museum. The museum is home to approximately 15,000 fine and folk art pieces from the Carpathian region, including icon paintings, baroque sculptures, and classical paintings. The temple underwent restoration work from 1990 to 1993, including the restoration of its wall paintings. The museum also organized scientific expeditions to collect samples of folk clothing and embroidery from various regions. Despite the destruction of ancient sacred art during the Soviet Union era, the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary remains a beautiful and significant historical site. It is highly regarded as one of the highlights of Ivano-Frankivsk, with its unique blend of past and present styles creating captivating images. The church also features a burial chamber for the founding family members of the city, adorned with stunning wooden sculptures. The church, along with other structures on Sheptytsky Square, contributes to the historical atmosphere of the area. Its exterior and interior are both remarkably beautiful. Visitors interested in the city's past should not miss the opportunity to explore the church and other structures on the square, as they offer equally fascinating insights into history. One intriguing aspect of the church is its hidden entrance to catacombs, adding an element of mystery to the site.