Mykolaivska Church is the main landmark of Olevsk and one of the best-preserved buildings of the 16th century in Ukraine. The stone church stands in the city center, near the former district administration building. It is often called the oldest church in Zhytomyr region: only the Vasylivska Church in Ovruch is older, but it has undergone much more extensive renovations.
The Church That Was a Fortress
The church was built in 1596, when Olevsk was owned by the Nemyrich family. A cross with the date 1618 is embedded in one of the walls, and above it is a plaque stating that the church was built in 1596. Why the dates differ is not exactly known; presumably, the church was extended in 1618.
The church was constructed as a defensive building. This is evidenced by walls 1.8 meters thick and narrow loophole windows. Originally, the church had Gothic forms and only one dome. Bricks are occasionally embedded in the stone masonry.
Architecture
The church has a cruciform plan: three arms of the cross are semicircular and faceted, the western one is rectangular. In the center rises a dome on a cylindrical drum, and the transition from the square under the dome to the drum is made using squinches and pointed arches. The height of the church to the top of the dome is 18.5 meters. Vertical divisions and slender proportions make the silhouette light despite the thick walls.
In 1864, the church was restored and four decorative domes were built around the main dome. At the rear stands a bell tower with an unusual sun-cross, characteristic of the Lithuanian Catholic tradition. The choir in the western part rests on a low massive arch with a pointed finish.
Frescoes and Icons
The old frescoes have not survived: the current painting was done in the 20th century. During the 2007 renovation, mosaic icons were installed in the niche between the loophole windows, where icons once hung, funded by parishioners’ donations. Today the church is active, belonging to the UOC (MP), with services held weekly.
Among the residents of Olevsk there is a legend about an underground passage leading from the church out of town for tens of kilometers. Local historians cannot confirm or deny it.
Tip
The church is best viewed from outside—from all sides to see the loopholes, wall thickness, and the 1618 cross. If you go inside, dress according to church customs and do not take photos during the service.
How to Get There
Olevsk is located in the north of Zhytomyr region, on the Korosten — Sarny railway. The church stands in the city center. Nearby, you should see the Olevskyi Reserve with its centuries-old oaks and the Poiaskivskyi Reserve. More about the city can be found in the article «Olevsk: a guide for tourists».
