Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (VRU) is the residence of the Parliament of Ukraine, a local architectural monument situated in the city's historic heart at the intersection of Hrushevsky Street and Constitution Square, сдщіу to the Mariinsky Palace. Designed by architect Volodymyr Zabolotny, the building was completed in 1939 and exemplifies "Ukrainian architectural classics". The structure is topped with a glass and metal dome, featuring a ceiling 16 meters in diameter that allows daylight to flood in. At its center hangs a crystal chandelier shaped like a sunflower. The heart of the Verkhovna Rada building is the meeting hall, which accommodates 1,000 seats and is located on the second floor. The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine's assembly hall has been the setting for significant events in our nation's history. Notably, on July 16, 1990, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the Declaration of State Sovereignty of Ukraine, and on August 24, 1991, it declared Ukraine an independent democratic state. On the second floor, a grand canvas titled "State Formation" captures the moment of the Act of Independence's adoption. This expansive artwork features not only political figures but also prominent historical individuals such as M.S. Hrushevsky, P.O. Kulish, H.S. Skovoroda, T.H. Shevchenko, I.Ya. Franko, Lesya Ukrainka, hetmans, and Kyiv princes. The painting was unveiled on August 22, 2001, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. A virtual tour, accessible through the Parliament of Ukraine's official web portal, allows for a visit to this historic building and an exploration of its remarkable paintings.