Illinska Church in Subotiv

Illinska Church is a brick building with defensive features, including embrasures on its gable and the preserved foundation of a defense tower. The structure combines elements of a chapel with fortification design from its founding period.

Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky commissioned this church-tomb in 1653, which became his final resting place after his death in 1657. The building marks a turning point in 17th-century Cossack history.

The church appears on the Ukrainian 5 hryvnia banknote and was painted in watercolor by artist Taras Shevchenko in 1845, reflecting its importance in Ukrainian visual culture.

Visiting is easiest during stable weather, as the old building is sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. Plan enough time to carefully explore both the interior and exterior areas.

The building houses sections of a historical museum exhibition with stone crosses from the 1700s and a Cossack cannon displayed on the grounds. These artifacts reflect the site's military importance during that era.

Location: Subotiv

Inception: 1653

Founders: Bohdan Khmelnytsky

Architectural style: Ukrainian Baroque

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 49.09436,32.55500

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:01