41 of Slastion’s Zemstvo Schools Listed as Heritage Sites: A Route Through Poltava Region

In Poltava Region, 41 zemstvo schools designed by architect Opanas Slastion have been added to the register of heritage sites. Most of them are located in the former Lokhvytsia District. This is a great reason to explore the villages of Poltava Region and discover what Ukrainian architectural modernism looked like in the early 20th century.

Who Was Slastion?

Opanas Slastion was an artist and architect, and one of the pioneers of Ukrainian architectural modernism. His schools are easy to recognize: they resemble large white traditional Ukrainian houses, with distinctive roofs, windows and decorative details inspired by folk architecture.

What Is Their Condition Today?

The schools are in very different conditions. According to Suspilne, the situation is worst in the Chornukhy community, particularly at the school in Kharsiky. By contrast, the school in Hiltsi is well maintained. Efforts are currently underway to grant the school in Bodakva the status of a national heritage site.

Heritage status is the first step towards preserving these buildings. Tourists who come to see them also help local communities recognize the value of their historic schools.

How to Plan Your Route

The best way to plan this trip is by car, as the schools are scattered across different villages. A good basic route is: Hiltsi → Bodakva → Kharsiky, with stops in Lokhvytsia and Chornukhy.

From Kyiv, take a train to Poltava or Lubny, then continue by car.

Practical Information

• Admission: The source does not specify visiting arrangements. Some schools may still operate as educational institutions, while others may be abandoned.
• Visitor etiquette: Do not enter the grounds of operating schools without permission. Avoid entering unsafe buildings — take photographs from outside instead.
• Cost: Viewing the buildings from outside is free.

What Else to See Nearby

• Chornukhy — the birthplace of Hryhorii Skovoroda, home to a literary and memorial museum.
• Lokhvytsia — an ancient town and the centre of the former Lokhvytsia District.
• Poltava — a city with other examples of Ukrainian modernist architecture, including the former provincial zemstvo building (now the local history museum).

FAQ

How many of Slastion’s schools have been granted heritage status?
41 schools in Poltava Region.

Where are most of the schools located?
In the territory of the former Lokhvytsia District.

Which school is in the best condition?
According to Suspilne, the school in Hiltsi is well maintained.

Can visitors go inside?
It depends on the individual school. Check visiting arrangements with the local community.

Photo: Posterrr