House of Scientists in Lviv: History, Architecture, and the Famous Wooden Staircase

This is the very same Noble Casino from the film about d’Artagnan, where the luxurious spiral wooden staircase has been preserved. As soon as you open the heavy entrance doors, the first thing you notice is the distinctive aroma of old wood, expensive varnish, and history that literally seems frozen in the air.

 

 

In this article, we will tell you why the atlantes on the facade only “pretend” to be stone, how to take a look inside a century-old library, and how to plan your visit to get the most enjoyment.

 

History

 

Noble Casino (1897–1939)

 

The history of the House of Scientists begins at the end of the 19th century. The building was constructed in 1897–1898 as the Noble Casino — an elite club for representatives of the aristocracy and wealthy residents of Lviv. The project was developed by the famous Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, who created many theatrical and public buildings across Europe. Among their works are the Odesa Opera House and dozens of theaters in various cities of Central Europe.

 

The Lviv elite gathered in the casino. Social meetings, balls, card games, and discussions of political events took place here. Due to its close location to the building of the Galician Sejm, the casino became one of the centers of the city’s social life.

 

 

Events of the 20th century

 

After the beginning of the Second World War, the casino ceased its activities. In different periods, the building was used for administrative purposes. Later, it was transferred to scientific organizations and since 1948 it has been known as the House of Scientists. Scientific conferences, lectures, meetings, and cultural events began to be held here.

 

Today the building serves a cultural and representative function and is a popular tourist attraction in Lviv.

 

 

Architecture of the House of Scientists

 

The building is designed in the Neo-Baroque style, which was characteristic of representative structures of the late 19th century. The facade is decorated with ornamental elements, sculptures, and balconies. The atlantes supporting the balcony above the central entrance attract particular attention. Interestingly, these sculptures are cast from metal but covered with a special material that creates the impression of stone.

 

Through the arch, visitors enter a spacious vestibule that leads to the main highlight of the building — the famous wooden staircase.

 

The wooden staircase of the House of Scientists

 

The main architectural gem of the building is the large wooden staircase that rises to the second floor beneath a glass dome. It is made of solid wood and has a complex decorative structure. Thanks to the natural light entering through the dome, the staircase creates a special atmosphere.

 

 

Today the staircase of the House of Scientists has become one of the most popular photo locations in Lviv. However, keep in mind: due to its huge popularity, there is often a queue of brides and models here, so for a calm visit and good shots we recommend coming in the morning, right after opening.

 

The House of Scientists in cinema

 

The luxurious interiors of the building have repeatedly been used by filmmakers. The most famous example is the filming of the movie “D’Artagnan and the Three Musketeers.” During filming, the House of Scientists served as the Palais Cardinal (the residence of Cardinal Richelieu). A special feature was that scenes were filmed both outside and inside the building.

 

Thanks to its architecture and atmosphere, the House of Scientists is still often used as a location for filming movies, commercials, and photo projects.

 

What you can see inside

 

The interiors of the House of Scientists have preserved many elements that remained from the time of the Noble Casino.

 

Ballroom (Ball Salon)

 

The spacious hall was used for balls and social events. Its interior is designed in a classical style with decorative elements and large windows.

 

 

Library

 

On the second floor there is a library that has almost completely preserved its historical appearance. Here you can see antique furniture, some of which is more than 100 years old.

 

 

Elegant interior and details

 

Among the interesting details of the building are antique furniture, decorative panels, marble elements, and even a sink made of pink marble.

 

 

Tip: if you want to examine the interiors in more detail or plan angles for a photo shoot in advance, the official website offers a virtual 3D tour of the House of Scientists . It is a great way to see the luxurious halls without leaving your home.

 

How to get to the House of Scientists

 

The building is located at: 6 Lystopadovoho Chynu Street .

 

It is easy to reach on foot — it is only a 10–15 minute walk from the Opera House. It is a pleasant walk through Ivan Franko Park. However, if you are planning a busy day and also want to visit St. George’s Cathedral or the High Castle, it will be more convenient to rent a car .

 

What to see nearby

 

The House of Scientists is located in the so-called “elite quarter,” so there are many interesting places within a 5–10 minute walk:

 

-   Ivan Franko Park (right opposite) — the oldest city park in Ukraine. A completely different rhythm reigns here: you only need to cross the road from the House of Scientists for the city noise to fade away, and instead of architectural details you will want to admire the tree crowns that saw Lviv two centuries ago;

-   Lviv University (former Galician Sejm) — a majestic building on the side of the park. Be sure to come closer to see the sculptures on the facade symbolizing Education and Labor;

-   St. George’s Cathedral — if you walk a little uphill along Lystopadovoho Chynu Street, you will see the main Baroque gem of the city. We recommend visiting the inner courtyard — it has incredible acoustics and tranquility;

-   Lviv Polytechnic — located a bit further beyond the cathedral. Its main building impresses no less than the House of Scientists, and inside there is a unique assembly hall painted based on sketches by Jan Matejko;

-   Opera House — if you walk down toward the center, in 10 minutes you will find yourself on the main avenue. This is a logical final point of the route for an evening dinner.

 

 

May your walk be filled with pleasant discoveries, aromatic coffee, and inspiration from architecture that has survived centuries.

 

See you on the streets of the City of Lions!

 

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