Ukraine is a country rich in history and culture, and its railway stations are an integral part of that heritage. In this article we look at ten stunning stations that are not only key transport hubs but also true monuments of architecture and history.
Kyiv railway station (Kyiv-Pasazhyrskyi)
Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, impresses with its station built in the Neo-Renaissance style at the beginning of the 20th century. This majestic architectural monument greets passengers with elegant façades and unique details. The railway station in Kyiv opened in 1870. Over its history it has been rebuilt seven times, most recently in 2001. Later, a South station was added to the central one, and the two were connected by a pedestrian bridge. The station complex combines three stations: Central, South and Suburban.
Lviv railway station
Lviv, with its rich history, has a station built in the style of a medieval castle. It not only provides efficient transport links but is also a genuine work of art. Lviv railway station is one of the best-known and busiest stations in the country. It first opened in 1861, on the territory of present-day Ukraine. The station was badly damaged during the Second World War and rebuilt afterwards. Its most recent restoration dates from 2001.
Kharkiv-Pasazhyrskyi station
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, is proud of its station, impressive for its architecture and unique details. The station is also a historical monument of sorts, telling the story of the country's developing transport system. The first station building opened in 1869 and was destroyed several times. The current building was constructed in 1952. Today it covers 32,600 square metres, not counting the platforms and tunnels.
Zhmerynka railway station
One of the most beautiful stations in Ukraine, it was built in 1865 on the model of the Munich station, and its architectural style combines Ukrainian Art Nouveau and Renaissance. The station has become an important local architectural landmark.
Dnipro railway station
Dnipro, on the banks of the Dnipro river, boasts a station that combines elements of the Gothic Revival and Neo-Renaissance styles. It is the city's calling card and a reflection of its historical development. The station opened in 1884, and the current building was constructed in 1956. In terms of passenger traffic, it ranks fifth in Ukraine.
Odesa railway station
Odesa, famous for its maritime traditions, also has a magnificent station. Built in the neoclassical style, it offers passengers not only comfort but also a unique architectural experience. Odesa railway station was built in 1884 and designed in the neoclassical style by the architect Viktor Shletel. The building was destroyed during the Second World War but later rebuilt; the current building dates from 1952. It stands on the station square between Kulykove Pole and Pryvoz market.
Zaporizhzhia railway station
Zaporizhzhia, on the banks of the Dnipro, is known for its station inspired by traditional Ukrainian architecture. It reflects the rich history and culture of the region. The first Zaporizhzhia station building was constructed in 1873. In 1953 it was rebuilt, and a Baroque-style building replaced the old station. In 2002 the building was renovated again, gaining comfortable leather seats, a TV, air conditioning, a new sound system and a bar.
Chernihiv station
Chernihiv, one of the oldest cities in Ukraine, has a station that blends historic and modern architecture and keeps the spirit of the city and its people. The building of Chernihiv railway station looks like a fairy-tale castle. According to locals, it was built to sketches by a German prisoner of war named Hans. The first building dates from 1893. It was reconstructed in 1950, and the most recent reconstruction took place in 1999, when the station was also declared an architectural monument.
Chernivtsi railway station
Chernivtsi railway station was built in 1909. Its architecture uses both pagan and Christian symbols: the goddess Iris and an angel as a symbol of hospitality. The architectural style is Art Nouveau.
Kryvyi Rih railway station
Kryvyi Rih, known for its steelworks, has a station that reflects the strength and industrial spirit of the city and has become a symbol of the region's prosperity and development. The main railway station of Kryvyi Rih looks like a gingerbread house from a fairy tale and is surrounded by a public garden. The building was constructed in 1884, and the station was electrified in 1959–1960.
In each of these Ukrainian stations we see not only functional transport hubs but real works of art that reflect the rich history and culture of this remarkable country. Travelling through these stations becomes a fascinating journey into Ukraine's heritage, its past and its future.
