Sacred architecture in the area of historical Volhynia

Abstract

This article discusses the genesis and historical development of the sacred complexes of historic Volhyn. Based on historical and architectural analysis, it is presented that sacred complexes of historic Volhynia were built according to the canons of temple architecture, and at the same time they have their own characteristics, related to national traditions and regional features which appeared as a result of the process of forming Christianity as a religion associated with national development in the specific study territory. The results of a comprehensive analysis of historical and archival documents found in the archives of Ukraine, Poland and Russia, as well as field research are presented. Results of system and theoretical research of significant retrospective analysis of canonical, historical and political prerequisites of sacral complexes were generalized. The concept of sacred complex structures throughout ХІ-ХІХ th centuries is suggested in correlation with the change of religious identity formation and differentiation according to religious requirements. Existence of autochthonous traditions and genuine vector of the Volhynia’s sacred complex development, considering the specific geopolitical location between East and West in the area where two different cultures collide with each other has been proved. The work is shifting statements concerning direct borrowing of architectural and stylistic components of architectural and planning structure and certain decorative elements.