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Places of interest #4 in Lutsk

House with Chimeras

4.6 · 3,136 reviews
Whimsical and highly personalized
House with Chimeras, Liuteranska St, 9, Lutsk, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine, 43000
Interesting facts
1

Mykola Holovan hand-carved the majority of the ornaments from concrete and stone himself.

2

The project has been under continuous construction and modification for over 40 years.

3

The house is often compared to Gaudi’s architecture due to its organic, non-linear aesthetic.

4

Beyond chimeras, the collection includes religious iconography and historical Ukrainian figures.

5

The sculptor lives on the premises and frequently maintains the sculptures personally.

Overview

The House with Chimeras in Lutsk is the private residential complex and workshop of Ukrainian sculptor Mykola Holovan. The structure is characterized by an extensive collection of concrete sculptures, including chimeras, lions, mythological creatures, and human figures, embedded directly into the walls and surrounding yard. Built over several decades starting in 1980, the site serves as both a functional home and an evolving open-air gallery. Every exterior surface is densely packed with decorative carvings, textures, and relief work. The house is situated on the banks of the Styr River, within the historical district of the city. It is widely considered one of the most eccentric examples of self-taught architectural expression in Ukraine. Visitors can view the exterior detailing and the sculpture garden from the street level.

Photo spot

The main gate entrance, which provides a frame for the most dense concentration of facade sculptures.

Insider tips

Walk around the entire perimeter of the fence to see sculptures that are not visible from the main entrance.

Respect the privacy of the owner, as this remains a private residence.

Bring a camera with a macro lens to capture the fine details of the stone carvings.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter private sections of the house or touch the delicate sculptures, as many are fragile or part of the structural wall.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn, when the surrounding greenery contrasts with the concrete sculptures and light is soft for photography.
Address
House with Chimeras, Liuteranska St, 9, Lutsk, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine, 43000
50.737, 25.314
Get directions
Details
Key featureOutdoor concrete sculpture collection
Architectural styleNaive, self-taught folk art

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn, when the surrounding greenery contrasts with the concrete sculptures and light is soft for photography..

The main gate entrance, which provides a frame for the most dense concentration of facade sculptures.

Close by you'll find Lubart's Castle, Central Park of Culture and Rest, Lutsk Zoo.