Many cities of Transcarpathia arouse interest of tourists from different countries of the world due to their unique life, history, richness and beauty of the surrounding nature. But not only this attracts to the Transcarpathian region connoisseurs of bright impressions. Even in small towns with a population of a few thousand people you can sometimes find sights that are 500 and more years old. Everyone who is partial to antiquity and beautiful architecture strives to see with their own eyes and visit such ancient sights of Ukraine.
The small town of Svalyava, known for not the first century thanks to the springs of healing mineral waters, has saved such a treasure. Those who come here for treatment and recovery of the body face a pleasant surprise — a real architectural gem, a priceless monument, the likes of which are very few.
The wooden St. Michael’s Church is an ancient, original construction. It is located on the outskirts of Svalyava in the area of the former village of Bystry, which has now become part of the city. It is impossible not to notice this beautiful, unusual building.
The temple was built in 1588 on top of the mountain, at the foot of which it can be seen today. It was moved to its present location in 1630 at the request of local residents. A century later, the church was partially rebuilt and given the appearance it has today.
The church was built in the Lemkovo style, which is clearly illustrated by its characteristic elements: a high tower with a Baroque ending, a sharp increase in forms from the low altar to the tower, an open gallery around the babinets with carved columns. These features are considered classical for all Transcarpathian churches in the Lemkovo style.
St. Michael’s Church in Svalyava has some special energy. Due to the fact that it is perfectly preserved, you can admire it for a long time. The temple fascinates with its perfect proportions, perfect ancient forms, impresses with an unusual combination of small details and massive parts. Next to the church there is an ancient cemetery with ancient stone crosses and tombstones, the entrance to the territory is preceded by a beautiful gate with gilded elements — all this further enhances the impression.
In the interior of St. Michael’s Church, which after the reconstruction in 2000 acquired modern features, the ancient iconostasis of the second half of the XVIII century has been preserved. This temple is impressive not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
From the late 1940s to the early 1990s the ancient church was closed. Today, after decades of silence, services are being held in the church again.
In 2001, a large cross was erected and consecrated on the place where St. Michael’s Church was originally built. A walk around the neighborhood of this attraction of Zakarpattya will bring pleasure to all guests of Svalyava — a beautiful view of the city opens from a high hill.