The village of Krasnobirka lies north of Radomyshl, approximately 5 km from the Tetiv river, and has an interesting centuries-old history. According to legend, its name originates from a burned pine forest: "chervonyi" (red) is associated with fire, and "bor" (pine forest) with woodland.
History of the Village
Few historical documents about the village have been preserved. It is known that in 1864, Lavrentii Pokhylevych counted 266 residents here and noted that the settlement belonged to the metropolitan estate. In December 1943, fierce battles took place near Krasnobirka between Soviet troops and SS armored units.
Unlike many villages in Zhytomyr region, Krasnobirka has grown noticeably over a century and a half — today, more than 800 people live here. The village is part of the Radomyshl hromada of Zhytomyr district.
Church and Architecture
The current Church of Alexander Nevsky is considered the first church in Krasnobirka. According to the local priest, Father Hryhorii, it was built from 1899 to 1901.
The church is built in the historicism style with features of traditional Polissian architecture:
- small, three-part, single-domed;
- an attached bell tower (its upper tier was destroyed during the Soviet era, but the Neo-Baroque dome has been preserved);
- the central part is significantly larger than the narthex and the faceted altar;
- wooden siding and corner pilasters have been preserved on the exterior.
Once the walls of the church were blue, and after repairs they became white, with brown pilasters. The porch was covered with a canopy, adding both practicality and appeal.
Features and Value
In the evening, at sunset, the small church among the old trees looks especially picturesque. This landmark deserves to be included in the register of architectural monuments, as it is an important part of the history and culture of Polissia.
Why Visit
- To see Polissian wooden architecture and the historical style of the church.
- To get acquainted with the history of Krasnobirka and the local community.
- To admire the church in the evening light among old trees.
- To discover one of the lesser-known architectural landmarks of Zhytomyr region.
How to Get There
Krasnobirka is located north of Radomyshl; the road to the village leads past Polissian bogs and pine forests. The trip can be conveniently combined with exploring Radomyshl.
The Church of Alexander Nevsky is a small but important symbol of Krasnobirka's history. It combines architectural value, historical heritage, and the spiritual life of the community.
Krasnobirka. Church of Alexander Nevsky, 1899–1901.
Road to Krasnobirka. Polissian bogs.
