Boim Chapel Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide for Lviv Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Boim Chapel—History and Significance

Located in Lviv’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, the Boim Chapel is a masterwork of late Renaissance funerary architecture and a symbol of the city’s rich multicultural heritage. Commissioned by the influential Hungarian merchant and burgomaster Georgiy (György) Boim, the chapel was constructed between 1609 and 1615. It blends Western European Renaissance artistry with local Ukrainian traditions, most notably in its intricately carved limestone façade—often dubbed a “Bible for the poor” for its vivid biblical reliefs. Inside, the dome and altar feature compelling stucco and sculptural work, offering visitors an immersive artistic and historical experience.

The Boim Chapel stands as a testament to Lviv’s religious pluralism and social mobility, and today it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This guide covers the chapel’s history, architectural features, cultural context, and essential visitor information, including visiting hours, ticket details, accessibility, and nearby attractions. For further planning, consult the official Lviv tourism website and the Audiala mobile app for interactive tours and up-to-date travel tips (Audiala).

Table of Contents

Historical Background

Origins and Construction

The Boim Chapel, located on Cathedral Square, was built as a family mausoleum for the Boims, reflecting their economic ascent and civic stature in 17th-century Lviv. Designed by architect Andrzej Bemer, the chapel’s structure integrates Renaissance and local motifs, setting it apart from other European funerary chapels (Polonika; Wikipedia).

The Boim Family: Legacy and Influence

Georgiy Boim’s success in trade and civic leadership enabled his family to commission this ornate structure. The chapel’s iconography and design highlight both their Catholic faith and the city’s diverse religious landscape. Over the centuries, the chapel’s intricate artistry and local folklore have contributed to its enduring allure (Europe Between East and West).

Historical Significance

The Boim Chapel remains a singular example of Renaissance funerary architecture in Eastern Europe. Its elaborate decoration and integration of portraiture reflect the city’s cosmopolitan identity, and its preservation underscores Lviv’s dedication to safeguarding its heritage (Polonika).


Architectural Features

Layout and Structure

The Boim Chapel is a compact, square-plan building (about 7.8 by 7.8 meters), with a single story above a crypt. Its brick construction is clad in lavishly carved limestone, topped by a dome and lantern featuring a distinctive statue of the Pensive Christ (Polonika; Wikipedia).

Façade and Ornamentation

The western façade, described as a “Bible for the poor,” is densely adorned with high-relief biblical scenes, saints, and decorative motifs (Discover Ukraine). The eastern wall showcases portraits of the founders, while the north side features a bas-relief of St. George. The lantern rises atop eight pilasters, culminating in the iconic Christ statue (Lviv Travel).

Interior Decoration

Inside, the lower level features wooden pews and an altar with sculpted scenes of Christ’s Passion. The dome, with three concentric rings of caissons, displays busts, coats of arms, and celestial motifs. The interplay of natural light and illusionistic design enhances the chapel’s intimate yet grand ambiance (Polonika; Discover Ukraine).

Artistic Attribution

While Andrzej Bemer is credited with the chapel’s design, some art historians suggest contributions from Silesian sculptor Hanusz Scholz and others. The result is a unique synthesis of Central European Renaissance and Mannerist styles, influenced by Italian models like Kraków’s Sigismund’s Chapel (Wikipedia).


Cultural Context and UNESCO World Heritage Status

The Boim Family’s Role

The Boims exemplify the upward mobility possible in Lviv’s multiethnic society, with their chapel reflecting both religious devotion and a desire for lasting legacy (Europe Between East and West). Their Hungarian-German roots, civic engagement, and patronage of the arts are woven into the chapel’s fabric.

Multicultural Fabric of Lviv

Lviv’s Old Town is a crossroads of architectural and cultural influences. The Boim Chapel, built in the yard of the Latin Cathedral, exemplifies this diversity, merging Renaissance and local traditions (e-a-a.com).

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Inscribed in 1998, Lviv’s historic center—including the Boim Chapel—was recognized for its blend of Eastern and Western traditions and its preserved medieval layout (UNESCO World Heritage List). The site’s protection ensures ongoing conservation, with oversight from both Ukrainian authorities and UNESCO (National Geographic).


Visiting Information

Hours and Ticketing

  • Opening Hours: Generally open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and some holidays. Hours may vary seasonally—confirm on the official Lviv tourism website or by phone.
  • Tickets: Standard adult admission is about 50 UAH, with discounts for students, seniors, and children. Tickets are available at the on-site office; online sales may be limited (Lviv-Day).

Tours and Events

  • Guided tours in Ukrainian and English (other languages by request) provide in-depth historical and artistic context.
  • Audio guides and mobile apps such as Audiala offer self-guided options.
  • Classical music concerts and cultural events are occasionally hosted in the chapel’s acoustically unique interior.

Accessibility and Facilities

  • Accessibility is limited due to steps and narrow spaces. Wheelchair users should contact the chapel in advance; staff assistance is available.
  • Basic amenities (ticket office, brochures) are provided; restrooms are nearby, but not inside.

Photography

  • Photography is allowed for personal use without flash or tripods.

Nearby Attractions

The Boim Chapel’s central location makes it easy to visit other Lviv landmarks:

  • Lviv Latin Cathedral: Adjacent to the chapel.
  • Rynok Square: The vibrant city center.
  • Armenian Cathedral: A testament to Lviv’s multicultural heritage.
  • Market Square: Home to shops, cafes, and museums.

Visuals and Media

Alt tags and filenames use keywords such as “Boim Chapel Lviv,” “Boim Chapel visiting hours,” and “Lviv historical sites” for SEO optimization.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Boim Chapel visiting hours?
A: Typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Tuesday–Sunday. Check for seasonal updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Around 50 UAH for adults, with discounts available. Buy on-site or check official channels.

Q: Is the chapel wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited—contact staff in advance to discuss accommodations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in English and Ukrainian; other languages by request.

Q: Can I photograph inside?
A: Yes, but no flash or tripods.


Conclusion

The Boim Chapel is a unique treasure at the heart of Lviv, blending Renaissance artistry, historical depth, and cultural symbolism. Its preservation as part of Lviv’s UNESCO World Heritage center ensures that future generations can appreciate its significance. Plan your visit by checking current hours, ticketing, and tour options, and consider exploring Lviv’s surrounding historical sites for a richer understanding of the city’s legacy.

Download the Audiala mobile app for immersive guided tours and updates, and follow us on social media for the latest news on Lviv’s historical landmarks.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Lviv

12 Virmenska Street, Lviv
12 Virmenska Street, Lviv
122 Mm Howitzer M1938 (M-30)
122 Mm Howitzer M1938 (M-30)
16 Vynnychenka Street, Lviv
16 Vynnychenka Street, Lviv
36 Horodotska Street, Lviv
36 Horodotska Street, Lviv
85 Mm Divisional Gun D-44
85 Mm Divisional Gun D-44
Adam Mickiewicz Monument, Lviv
Adam Mickiewicz Monument, Lviv
Antonovycha Street, Lviv
Antonovycha Street, Lviv
|
  Archbishop'S Palace, Market Square, Lviv
| Archbishop'S Palace, Market Square, Lviv
|
  Archbishop'S Palace, Vynnychenka Street, Lviv
| Archbishop'S Palace, Vynnychenka Street, Lviv
Arena Lviv
Arena Lviv
|
  Armenian Archbishop'S Palace, Lviv
| Armenian Archbishop'S Palace, Lviv
Armenian Cathedral Of Lviv
Armenian Cathedral Of Lviv
Army Sports Club Stadium
Army Sports Club Stadium
Astronomical Observatory Of Lviv University
Astronomical Observatory Of Lviv University
Bandinelli Palace
Bandinelli Palace
Baworowscy Library
Baworowscy Library
|
  Beis Aharon V'Yisrael Synagogue
| Beis Aharon V'Yisrael Synagogue
Bell Tower Of Armenian Church, Lviv
Bell Tower Of Armenian Church, Lviv
Benedykt Dybowski Zoological Museum
Benedykt Dybowski Zoological Museum
Bernardine Church
Bernardine Church
Bernardine Church And Monastery
Bernardine Church And Monastery
Besyadetski Palace, Lviv
Besyadetski Palace, Lviv
Bilohorshcha Street
Bilohorshcha Street
Bohdan Khmelnytsky Street
Bohdan Khmelnytsky Street
Boim Chapel
Boim Chapel
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery
Botanical Garden Of Lviv Forestry Institute
Botanical Garden Of Lviv Forestry Institute
Botanical Garden Of Lviv University
Botanical Garden Of Lviv University
Briukhovychi
Briukhovychi
Carmelite Church
Carmelite Church
Cemetery Of The Defenders Of Lwów
Cemetery Of The Defenders Of Lwów
Chapel Of The Three Hierarchs
Chapel Of The Three Hierarchs
Chuprynky Street, Lviv
Chuprynky Street, Lviv
Church Of John The Baptist, Lviv
Church Of John The Baptist, Lviv
Church Of Our Lady Of The Snow, Lviv
Church Of Our Lady Of The Snow, Lviv
Church Of Saint Anthony, Lviv
Church Of Saint Anthony, Lviv
Church Of Saint George, Lviv
Church Of Saint George, Lviv
Church Of Saint Nicholas, Lviv
Church Of Saint Nicholas, Lviv
Church Of Saint Sophia, Lviv
Church Of Saint Sophia, Lviv
Church Of St. Mary Magdalene
Church Of St. Mary Magdalene
Church Of St. Olha And Elizabeth
Church Of St. Olha And Elizabeth
Church Of St. Ursula, Lviv
Church Of St. Ursula, Lviv
Church Of The Holy Spirit
Church Of The Holy Spirit
Church Of The Holy Trinity, Lviv
Church Of The Holy Trinity, Lviv
Church Of The Presentation
Church Of The Presentation
Church Of Transfiguration
Church Of Transfiguration
Discalced Carmelites Monastery (Lviv)
Discalced Carmelites Monastery (Lviv)
Dominican Church
Dominican Church
Dormition Church
Dormition Church
Doroshenka Street, Lviv
Doroshenka Street, Lviv
Forum Lviv
Forum Lviv
Franciscan Church Of The Immaculate Conception In Lviv
Franciscan Church Of The Immaculate Conception In Lviv
Golden Rose Synagogue
Golden Rose Synagogue
Government House, Lviv
Government House, Lviv
Great City Synagogue, Lviv
Great City Synagogue, Lviv
Gunpowder Tower
Gunpowder Tower
Halytska Square, Lviv
Halytska Square, Lviv
Heroiv Upa Street, Lviv
Heroiv Upa Street, Lviv
Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy
Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy
Hlyniany Gate
Hlyniany Gate
Holovatoho Street
Holovatoho Street
House From Oriavchyk
House From Oriavchyk
House Of Scientists, Lviv
House Of Scientists, Lviv
Hryhorenka Square, Lviv
Hryhorenka Square, Lviv
Ivan Franko Park
Ivan Franko Park
Ivana Pidkovy Square, Lviv
Ivana Pidkovy Square, Lviv
Jakob Glanzer Shul
Jakob Glanzer Shul
Jesuit Church
Jesuit Church
King Cross Leopolis
King Cross Leopolis
Klepariv
Klepariv
Konovaltsia Street, Lviv
Konovaltsia Street, Lviv
Kopernyka Street, Lviv
Kopernyka Street, Lviv
Korniakt Palace
Korniakt Palace
Korniakt Tower
Korniakt Tower
|
  Козацький Човен - "Дуб", Р. Горинь, С. Оржів
| Козацький Човен - "Дуб", Р. Горинь, С. Оржів
Latin Cathedral
Latin Cathedral
Lower Castle In Lviv
Lower Castle In Lviv
Lubomirski Palace
Lubomirski Palace
Lviv Arsenal
Lviv Arsenal
Lviv Bus Terminal
Lviv Bus Terminal
Lviv Conservatory
Lviv Conservatory
Lviv High Castle
Lviv High Castle
Lviv History Museum
Lviv History Museum
Lviv Jesuit College
Lviv Jesuit College
Lviv Les Kurbas Academic Theater
Lviv Les Kurbas Academic Theater
Lviv Museum Of The History Of Religion
Lviv Museum Of The History Of Religion
Lviv National Academy Of Arts
Lviv National Academy Of Arts
Lviv National Medical University Botanical Garden
Lviv National Medical University Botanical Garden
Lviv National Museum
Lviv National Museum
Lviv Philharmonic
Lviv Philharmonic
Lviv Polytechnic
Lviv Polytechnic
Lviv Railway Station
Lviv Railway Station
Lviv State University Of Internal Affairs
Lviv State University Of Internal Affairs
Lviv State University Of Life Safety
Lviv State University Of Life Safety
Lviv State University Of Physical Culture
Lviv State University Of Physical Culture
Lviv Suburban Railway Station
Lviv Suburban Railway Station
Lviv Theatre Of Opera And Ballet
Lviv Theatre Of Opera And Ballet
Lviv Town Hall
Lviv Town Hall
Lviv University
Lviv University
Lviv University Of Trade And Economics
Lviv University Of Trade And Economics
Lychakiv Cemetery
Lychakiv Cemetery
Lychakiv Military Cemetery
Lychakiv Military Cemetery
Lysenka Street, Lviv
Lysenka Street, Lviv
Lytchakiv
Lytchakiv
Market Square
Market Square
Memorial Museum Of Roman Shukhevych In Lviv
Memorial Museum Of Roman Shukhevych In Lviv
Metropolitan Palace
Metropolitan Palace
Mickiewicz Square
Mickiewicz Square
Museum Of Ethnography And Crafts In Lviv
Museum Of Ethnography And Crafts In Lviv
Mytna Square
Mytna Square
National Forestry University
National Forestry University
Old Town Of Lviv
Old Town Of Lviv
Our Lady Of The Gate Of Dawn Churches In Ukraine
Our Lady Of The Gate Of Dawn Churches In Ukraine
Palace Of Arts
Palace Of Arts
Palace Of Turkull-Comello
Palace Of Turkull-Comello
|
  Park Of The End Of The Nineteenth Century "Na Valakh"
| Park Of The End Of The Nineteenth Century "Na Valakh"
Pasichna Street, Lviv
Pasichna Street, Lviv
Patona Street, Lviv
Patona Street, Lviv
Pekarska Street, Lviv
Pekarska Street, Lviv
|
  People'S House In Lviv
| People'S House In Lviv
Перший Український Театр Для Дітей Та Юнацтва
Перший Український Театр Для Дітей Та Юнацтва
Pharmacy Museum
Pharmacy Museum
Pidzamche
Pidzamche
Potocki Palace
Potocki Palace
Povitryana Street, Lviv
Povitryana Street, Lviv
Prison On Łącki Street
Prison On Łącki Street
Promyslova Street, Lviv
Promyslova Street, Lviv
Prospekt Chornovola
Prospekt Chornovola
Prospekt Shevchenka
Prospekt Shevchenka
Prospekt Svobody, Lviv
Prospekt Svobody, Lviv
Prosvity Street, Lviv
Prosvity Street, Lviv
Regional Landscape Park Znesinnya
Regional Landscape Park Znesinnya
Riasna
Riasna
Royal Arsenal
Royal Arsenal
Rudne
Rudne
Saint Adalbert Of Prague Church In Lviv
Saint Adalbert Of Prague Church In Lviv
|
  Saint George'S Cathedral
| Saint George'S Cathedral
Saint John Chrysostom Church, Lviv
Saint John Chrysostom Church, Lviv
Saint Martin Church, Lviv
Saint Martin Church, Lviv
Saints Cosmas And Damian Church, Lviv
Saints Cosmas And Damian Church, Lviv
Sapieha Palace
Sapieha Palace
Scientific Library Of Ivan Franko National University Of Lviv
Scientific Library Of Ivan Franko National University Of Lviv
Scottish Café
Scottish Café
Secret Ukrainian University
Secret Ukrainian University
Siaivo Street
Siaivo Street
Skif Stadium
Skif Stadium
Sknyliv Air Show Disaster
Sknyliv Air Show Disaster
Soborna Square, Lviv
Soborna Square, Lviv
Square Of Angels, Lviv
Square Of Angels, Lviv
St. Onuphrius Monastery
St. Onuphrius Monastery
St. Paraskeva Church
St. Paraskeva Church
St Peter And Paul Church, Lviv
St Peter And Paul Church, Lviv
State Museum Of Natural History
State Museum Of Natural History
Stefanyk National Science Library
Stefanyk National Science Library
Stepan Gzhytskyi National University Of Veterinary Medicine And Biotechnologies Lviv
Stepan Gzhytskyi National University Of Veterinary Medicine And Biotechnologies Lviv
Stryjski Park
Stryjski Park
Sviatoho Teodora Square, Lviv
Sviatoho Teodora Square, Lviv
Tempel Synagogue
Tempel Synagogue
Tomb Of Maria Konopnicka
Tomb Of Maria Konopnicka
Ukraina Stadium
Ukraina Stadium
Ukrainian Catholic University
Ukrainian Catholic University
Ukrainian Dramatic Theatre Of Maria Zankovetska
Ukrainian Dramatic Theatre Of Maria Zankovetska
Union Of Lublin Mound
Union Of Lublin Mound
Ustyianovycha Street, Lviv
Ustyianovycha Street, Lviv
Vicheva Square, Lviv
Vicheva Square, Lviv
Volynska Street, Lviv
Volynska Street, Lviv
Wiki Library
Wiki Library
Yanivsky Cemetery
Yanivsky Cemetery
Yevgeny Lazarenko Mineralogical Museum
Yevgeny Lazarenko Mineralogical Museum
Zamarstynivskyi Park
Zamarstynivskyi Park
Zichron Josef Synagogue
Zichron Josef Synagogue