«Tree of Life» — a unique landmark of Chernihiv region

Ukraine is a country where every region has its own soul, a distinctive history and cultural depth. From the majestic mountain vistas of the Carpathians to the boundless steppes and the shores of the Black Sea — everywhere you feel the energy of past generations, echoes of tradition and a drive for creativity. It is no coincidence that tourist places in Ukraine are becoming ever more popular not only among Ukrainians, but also with international travellers seeking authenticity, inspiration and a sense of spirit.

Today, as domestic tourism rapidly develops, more and more people are keen to get to know their own country. And although the number of landmarks truly impresses, some stand out for their idea, symbolism and depth. One such cultural masterpiece is the monumental-spatial composition “Tree of Life” — a modern landmark of Chernihiv Oblast that brings together art, philosophy and national identity.

The “Tree of Life” is not just an art object, but a profound symbol of spirituality, creative immortality and the connection between generations. This grand sculpture is housed in the Chernihiv Literary and Memorial Museum of M. Kotsiubynsky, which preserves the memory of one of Ukraine’s most renowned writers — Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky.

The composition amazes with its scale: the wooden column rises to 10.5 metres, and each of its four faces is about two metres wide. The sculpture spans three floors of the museum building, creating a sense of uninterrupted growth — from roots to crown — which symbolises the development of the nation, its culture and the human soul.

Artistic concept and philosophy of the composition

The “Tree of Life” concept in Ukrainian culture has ancient roots. It embodies harmony between the earthly and the spiritual, between the past and the future. In the context of this artwork, the tree becomes a metaphor for Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky’s creativity — his words, ideas and images take root in new generations, continuing to live in readers’ hearts.

The painted decoration of the column impresses with its detail: on each face are scenes from the writer’s works, where you can recognise characters from “Fata Morgana”, “Intermezzo” and “On High Price”. Together they form a kind of visual chronicle of the Ukrainian soul. The artists combined traditional Ukrainian ornament with contemporary stylistics, creating an immersive journey into the world of literary symbols.

Technical features and artistic execution

A team of talented artists and architects worked on the monument. They used valuable wood species that underwent special treatment to ensure the structure’s longevity. Particular attention was paid to lighting — it highlights the composition’s structure and colour palette, creating a play of shadows that shifts with the time of day. This makes experiencing the sculpture vivid, dynamic and ever new.

• Monument height — 10.5 metres;
• Width of each face — 2 metres;
• Location — in the museum’s central hall, spanning three floors;
• Material — natural wood with hand-painted decoration.

Recognition and place in the cultural space

On 18 May 2017 the “Tree of Life” was officially included in the National Register of Records of Ukraine as the country’s largest wooden sculpture. It has become a true symbol of contemporary Ukrainian art, skilfully blending tradition and innovation.

For Chernihiv residents this object is a source of pride, and for travellers — a reason to come to the city especially. Today tourism in Chernihiv is actively developing thanks to such sites, proving that contemporary art can be profound, educational and truly inspiring.

“The Tree of Life is not just an exhibition piece — it’s a living symbol of a nation’s spiritual growth, pushing through time and generations.”

If you’re into Ukrainian culture and art or are searching for ideas on where to go in Ukraine for a weekend, make sure to visit this unique landmark. It will open up new facets of Ukrainian literature and show how a modern museum can be emotional, interactive and genuinely engaging.

Every work of art has its own story, and the monumental composition “Tree of Life” is no exception. This unique art object is the result of close cooperation between artists, restorers, scholars and cultural figures who set out to create not just a museum adornment but a philosophical reflection of the Ukrainian people’s spiritual values. Work on the project lasted for over a year, with every stage carefully thought through.

Origins of the idea and concept

The idea to create the “Tree of Life” arose among the staff of the M. Kotsiubynsky Museum in Chernihiv in the early 2010s. They sought to enliven the exhibition space and convey to visitors the central idea of the writer’s work — harmony between people and nature, and the pursuit of truth and beauty. The image of a tree proved the perfect embodiment of this concept: roots symbolise history and tradition, the trunk — a person’s life path, and the crown — spiritual growth.

After several creative discussions and competitions, a draft design was approved and supported by regional authorities and cultural funds. That marked the start of major work on a unique object intended not only as a museum exhibit, but also as a symbol of the revival of Ukrainian culture.

Authors and the creative team

Masters from across Ukraine took part — monumental artists, woodcarvers, architects and designers. A group of artists led the painting process, studying Kotsiubynsky’s works in depth to convey their spirit visually. They wanted every element of the composition to tell its own story while preserving a unified idea.

• Each face of the sculpture symbolises a particular stage of the writer’s life or creative path.
• Decorative elements are handmade, without modern templates or laser carving.
• Eco-friendly, natural-based paints were used to ensure long-lasting colours.

Thanks to painstaking work, the composition harmoniously combines aesthetic appeal and spiritual depth, becoming a true cultural symbol of Chernihiv region.

Opening and public recognition

The “Tree of Life” was ceremonially opened in 2016 as part of celebrations of Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky’s birthday. From its first days, the exhibit drew visitors’ attention and soon became a real magnet for tourists. In 2017 the project was officially entered into the National Register of Records of Ukraine as the country’s largest wooden sculpture — a further acknowledgement of the initiative’s importance.

The event brought together representatives of the authorities, cultural figures, writers and local residents. Their speeches sounded in unison: everyone noted that this composition is not just an exhibit but a living energy structure linking the past, present and future of Ukrainian art.

Symbolism in the national context

The image of a tree growing through the museum’s space symbolises the continuity of spiritual development in Ukrainian culture. This idea resonates with Kotsiubynsky’s own philosophy — seeking harmony between the inner world and the outer beauty of nature. Thus, the “Tree of Life” has become not only an architectural accent but also a cultural bridge between eras.

Art historians note that the object can be viewed in the context of national revival, as Ukrainian art actively returns to its roots, reinterpreting them in a new aesthetic form. Because of this, the composition became a landmark event not only for Chernihiv but for the whole country.

“The ‘Tree of Life’ is a symbol of the indomitable Ukrainian spirit, the revival of traditions, and proof that contemporary art in Ukraine has its own face and a voice on the world stage.”

Visiting this landmark of Chernihiv Oblast is not merely a trip to a museum, but an immersion in the history, emotions and depth of Ukrainian culture. If you are interested in cultural tourism in Ukraine, this site most certainly deserves a place on your must-visit list.

Chernihiv is one of Ukraine’s oldest cities, preserving a unique harmony of history, architecture and modern life. Set on the picturesque banks of the Desna River, it is regarded as the spiritual capital of the northern Left Bank. For those interested in tourist places in Ukraine, Chernihiv is a true treasure: here you can feel the depth of a thousand-year culture and enjoy the calm of a provincial city with European charm.

Today the city is actively developing domestic tourism, and its key landmarks, including the “Tree of Life”, are part of integrated cultural heritage routes. Chernihiv ranks among the most appealing destinations for travelling around Ukraine, especially for those who value architectural authenticity, museum culture and relaxed, informative leisure.

Architectural heritage and ancient landmarks

Beyond the Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky Museum, the city impresses with numerous historical sites listed as national heritage. Each tells its own story, shaping Chernihiv’s unique tourist identity.

• Transfiguration Cathedral (Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi) — one of the oldest churches of Kyivan Rus (11th century), preserving elements of Byzantine style.
• Borys and Hlib Cathedral — a medieval architectural gem combining austere forms and spiritual depth.
• Yelets Dormition Monastery — an ancient shrine with wonderful views over the Desna valley.
• Anthony Caves — a unique complex of underground cells dating back to the 11th century, with a special quiet and energy.

These sites not only attract visitors but also form the core of the cultural route “Tourist Chernihiv”, allowing you to feel the spirit of the ancient city alongside contemporary art.

Contemporary art spaces and museums in Chernihiv

The city is known not only for its ancient churches, but also for modern cultural venues showing that tourism in Chernihiv is as much about creativity as it is about history. After visiting the M. Kotsiubynsky Museum, travellers often continue to the Chernihiv Regional Hryhoriy Galagan Art Museum, home to Ukrainian painting from the 18th–20th centuries. Open-air festivals and exhibitions at the Centre for Contemporary Art are also popular, blending music, theatre and traditional crafts.

Among modern art objects, the “ART Avenue” street gallery stands out, where young artists create murals dedicated to Chernihiv’s cultural figures. Such initiatives make the city lively, inspiring and open to new ideas.

Weekend routes: what to visit near Chernihiv

If you’re planning a holiday in Ukraine and want to combine culture with nature, Chernihiv region offers plenty of options. Within an hour’s drive of the city are locations perfect for short trips.

• Sedniv — a scenic village with the historic Lyzohub estate, an old mill and lovely views over the Snov River.
• Baturyn Fortress — Baturyn, the former Hetman capital, home to the Razumovsky Palace and the Museum of the Hetmanate.
• Kozelets — famous for the Baroque Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, built in the 18th century.

These routes perfectly complement a visit to the Kotsiubynsky Museum and let you fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient Chernihivshchyna.

Tips for travellers

Before heading to Chernihiv, keep a few practical points in mind:

• The easiest way from Kyiv is by train or bus; the journey takes about two hours.
• One to two days is enough to see the main sights, but to soak up the city’s calm it’s better to stay for the weekend.
• The best time to visit is April to October, when the city is especially picturesque.

Those wishing to combine cultural tourism with time in nature should stroll along the Desna embankment, where you can rent a boat or follow riverside walking trails. And be sure to try local cuisine — homemade varenyky, uzvar and fermented dishes that reflect the traditional flavours of Polissia.

“Chernihiv is a city where past and present intertwine so harmoniously that every visitor finds their own place of power.”

So if you’re seeking inspiration, calm and cultural richness — this is the time to discover Chernihiv and its most famous Ukrainian landmark — the “Tree of Life”. It’s a journey not only through space but also through time, leaving sincere impressions and pride in Ukrainian heritage.

Travelling across Ukraine, we discover not only new cities but ourselves — reflected in history, culture and nature. And places like the “Tree of Life” in Chernihiv help us realise just how deep and inspiring our cultural code is. This is not merely an art installation — it is an image of spiritual revival, a symbol of generational unity and the resilience of national identity.

Visiting this art object, you’ll feel history, literature and contemporary art merge into one space. Every face and brushstroke carries the energy of human creativity and love for the homeland. That’s why the “Tree of Life” has become one of the most renowned landmarks in Ukraine, rightly included among the most compelling cultural locations in the country.

Chernihiv as the heart of spiritual tourism

Chernihiv is not just a tourist destination. It’s a city where every street keeps the memory of centuries and every stone speaks the language of history. It concentrates countless architectural masterpieces, museums, art spaces and green areas for a relaxed break. First-time visitors often say that in Chernihiv they truly felt the “calm of the Ukrainian soul” — sincere, kind and profound.

Together with the monumental “Tree of Life”, the city creates a unique cultural space where past meets future. This is what makes Chernihiv attractive both for seasoned travellers and for those just beginning to discover tourism in Ukraine.

Practical tips for your trip

To make your journey as comfortable and rewarding as possible, consider a few recommendations from local guides:

• Start at the M. Kotsiubynsky Museum — that’s where the “Tree of Life” is located. Then stroll through the historic centre, visiting the Dytynets and the Transfiguration Cathedral.
• Head to the Anthony Caves — a place with a unique atmosphere that perfectly crowns a spiritual route through Chernihiv.
• Nature lovers will enjoy Mezyn Switzerland and the Desnianska Obolon Nature Reserve — ideal for quiet time in authentic Polissia nature.
• If you’re into history and architecture — don’t miss the Galagan Palace in Sokyryntsi, Trostianets Park and the Kachanivka National Reserve.
• In summer, don’t miss the Blue Lakes of Chernihiv region — perfect for a swim, picnic or photo shoot.
• Also pop into local Chernihiv coffee shops and souvenir stores — you’ll find authentic crafts by regional artisans.

Such trips not only broaden your horizons but also strengthen your emotional bond with the country, letting you feel its strength and beauty in every detail.

The joy of cultural tourism

Ukraine has immense potential for developing cultural tourism. Contemporary art objects like the “Tree of Life” show that even a small city can create something of world-class calibre. It’s a great example of how creativity, tradition and modern technology can revive cultural memory and attract travellers from all over the country.

More and more Ukrainians now choose weekend trips around Ukraine over foreign destinations, rediscovering the beauty of their own towns. And Chernihiv with its “Tree of Life” is telling proof that spiritual depth, art and inspiration are close at hand — you only need to look a little closer.

“Travelling in Ukraine isn’t about chasing new landscapes, but rediscovering familiar places from a fresh angle. Where past and present speak the same language, genuine love for one’s land is born.”

Final thoughts

Chernihiv and the “Tree of Life” show how art can unite generations and spark interest in native culture. Visit to feel the energy of Ukrainian creativity, be inspired by history and discover genuine Ukrainian landmarks that shape our cultural code.

Plan your journey today — and let your next tourist route lead you where Ukraine’s heart beats in harmony with art, history and soul — to Chernihiv, to the monumental “Tree of Life”.