Trostianets Territorial Community

Lviv
Population:

The Trostianets territorial community is located on the territory of the Stryi district, Lviv region.

The total area of the community: 190.4 km²
Population: 7,729 people
Men: 3,755
Women: 3,974
Children: 1,527
People of retirement age: 1,291

The community includes 17 villages and has its administrative center in the village of Trostianets.

History

The Trostianets territorial community has a rich historical past that goes back several centuries. Archaeological findings on its territory testify to the settling of the region as early as the period of Kyivan Rus.

The first written mention of Trostianets dates back to 1448, when this settlement already played an important role in local history. In the 17th century, Trostianets became a center of cultural and economic life. The legacy of the Stilske hillfort, one of the largest Old Rus settlements in Europe, which was of key importance in the 9th-11th centuries, is particular significant. It was the capital of the tribal union of white Croats. Remains of fortifications, caves and street system have been preserved there. The settlement occupies an area of about 250 hectares and is impressive with the scale of the fortifications. This is a unique archaeological monument, which is important for the study of the history of early statehood in Ukraine and Central Europe.

The huge ancient Rus hillfort of Stilske (19th-20th centuries, 250 ha), one of Europe’s largest / Oleksandra Dzyndra
The huge ancient Rus hillfort of Stilske (19th-20th centuries, 250 ha), one of Europe’s largest / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Numerous historical and architectural monuments have been preserved on the territory of the community, including churches and monuments, which are an integral part of the cultural landscape of Trostianets.

The palace on the territory of the community, built on the model of the Skarbek residence in Nussdorf (now the 19th district of Vienna), impresses with its restrained grandeur. It is U-shaped with a three-story central part and five-tier towers. In 1840, Stanisław Skarbek founded the “Charitable Institute for Orphans and the Destitute” here, which became a shelter for hundreds of children of various ethnicities and the elderly. However, the tragic events of the 20th century destroyed many valuables of the palace. Today, it is home to a penal establishment and a neurological hospital, but there is hope to restore it to its former glory.

Skarbek Palace / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Skarbek Palace / Oleksandra Dzyndra

The Neo-Gothic Church of Our Lady of Częstochowa, which was built from blocks of local sandstone and is one of the attractions of the village of Demnia. The temple was seriously damaged and then repaired by Austrian troops.

Church of Our Lady of Częstochowa (1912-1914) / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Church of Our Lady of Częstochowa (1912-1914) / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Closed in 1945, now the temple stands empty; however, it hosted the Pentecost Performance as part of the Under the Pinzel Star project in 2020.

Pentecost Performance
Pentecost Performance Source

The ancient cemetery in Demnia is a unique open-air museum where masterpieces of stone carving have been preserved. The village is known for its master stonemasons, who created tombstones from local limestone from generation to generation. Founded in 1834, the cemetery is one of Ukraine’s most interesting.

The cemetery museum in Demnia / Oleksandra Dzyndra
The cemetery museum in Demnia / Oleksandra Dzyndra

In the Stilske Hillfort reserve, archaeologists discovered the remains of a pagan temple in the Pechera (English – “cave”) tract near the village of Iliv. The excavation covers an area of 200 m². The monument is multi-layered, representing structures from the Eneolithic (4th millennium BC) to the Princely Age (10th-12th centuries). These are the first excavations in this area in the last 20 years.

Pechera in the village of Iliv / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Pechera in the village of Iliv / Oleksandra Dzyndra

The Church of St. Paraskeva in the village of Krasiv was built in the traditional Hutsul style; however, the church originates from Lviv, and not the Hutsul area.

Church of St. Paraskeva (first mentioned in 1965)/Oleksandra Dzyndra
Church of St. Paraskeva (first mentioned in 1965)/Oleksandra Dzyndra

Economy and Welfare

The community’s economy is dominated by the agrarian sector represented by over a dozen farms specializing in the cultivation of grain crops, vegetables, horticulture and berry growing. The community borders the Ivano-Frankivsk and Zakarpattia regions, which contributes to the development of trade and economic ties.

Also, the Lviv–Stryi–Chop international highway passes through the territory of the community, which provides quick access to the regional center of Lviv (34 km, 30 min).

The community has deposits of natural resources, including lithotamnium limestones, marls, quartz and glauconite sands, as well as clay for the production of bricks and cement.

One of the community’s key companies is Agrobudservice, which specializes in the extraction of sand and limestone, as well as the production of mineral powder. The company is part of the ONUR GROUP, an international group founded in 1981. The ONUR GROUP unites more than 40 companies working in 13 sectors of the economy, in particular in the design and construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, dams, airports, and tram lines.

Agrobudservice, the village of Trostianets / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Agrobudservice, the village of Trostianets / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Founded in 2014, the Lvivskyi Sad Company is the manufacturer of GADERIA brand products. The enterprise specializes in the cultivation of fruits and berries and has orchards on an area of more than 70 hectares. Lvivskyi Sad ensures the high quality of its products thanks to modern agronomic practices and control over every stage of production.

GADERIA / Oleksandra Dzyndra
GADERIA / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Lvivskyi Sad / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Lvivskyi Sad / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Plantations of the Lvivskyi Sad Company are located in an ecologically clean area. Apples are grown on an area of more than 70 hectares. The products are partly exported, partly sold on the domestic market, and the rest are processed into direct- pressed juices , apple vinegar and apple nectar.

Terranova-Agro is an agricultural enterprise founded by investors from Germany, which has specialized in the cultivation of grain and technical crops, such as wheat, barley, soy, rapeseed, corn and sugar beet, for 12 years.

Terranova-Agro / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Terranova-Agro / Oleksandra Dzyndra

There are two forestry companies operating on the territory of the Trostianets community. Both effectively manage forest resources and are engaged in protection, restoration and rational use of nature.

State-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” / Oleksandra Dzyndra
State-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” / Oleksandra Dzyndra

On the territory of the community there is a recreational complex “Poliana Kupil”, located in the village of Poliana. The complex offers comfortable rest, modern rooms, a spa area with saunas and pools, as well as a restaurant with local cuisine, combining a high level of service with the natural beauty of the area.

Recreational complex
Recreational complex "Poliana Kupil" / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Medical care in the territory of the community is provided in four outpatient clinics of the general practice of family medicine and 6 paramedic and midwifery stations.

An extensive network of educational institutions in the Trostianets territorial community is represented by 6 schools and the “Berizka” preschool education institution

School / Oleksandra Dzyndra
School / Oleksandra Dzyndra

The network of cultural institutions includes thirteen libraries and fifteen community centers.

Trostianets Village Library / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Trostianets Village Library / Oleksandra Dzyndra

There are seven football clubs in the community, which participate in district competitions. In addition, the “Demnia” team takes part in all-Ukrainian and regional football competitions, where it has taken second place in regional tournaments for three years in a row.

Youth football club in the village of Ternopillia / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Youth football club in the village of Ternopillia / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Community and War

On February 24, 2022, with the beginning of a full-scale invasion, the workers of the Trostianets territorial community immediately switched to a 24-hour working mode under martial law. The main goal was to ensure uninterrupted operation of all critical services and coordinate actions to provide assistance to people arriving in the community.

Under the leadership of the Village Council, humanitarian points were quickly created, where the most necessary things were collected for internally displaced persons, as well as for military personnel. Thanks to the coordinated work of community workers, it was possible to effectively organize accommodation and help for people who were forced to leave their homes due to hostilities.

The community handed over the fire engine to the military unit. This car was provided by the German community of Hofstetten as part of international cooperation and humanitarian support.

Support of the military / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Support of the military / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Subsequently, the community received four cars and donated them to cater for the needs of the military. Such cooperation is an example of solidarity and mutual assistance between communities of different countries at a difficult time for Ukraine.

Humanitarian medical aid from the Hofstetten community, the Federal Republic of Germany / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Humanitarian medical aid from the Hofstetten community, the Federal Republic of Germany / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Handing over a car for military personnel from the community/ Oleksandra Dzyndra
Handing over a car for military personnel from the community/ Oleksandra Dzyndra

The Trostyanets community quickly arranged housing for long-term residence of internally displaced persons. In total, more than 200 places were created and furnished with everything necessary for comfortable living. Thanks to close cooperation with international partners, the community received significant support in the form of furniture, household appliances and other resources necessary for the arrangement of temporary housing.

Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Trostyanets community has suffered an irreparable loss – 19 of its best sons, true Heroes, gave their lives defending Ukraine in the ranks of the Armed Forces.

The residents of the community, realizing the price of these losses, continue to actively support the Ukrainian army and make every effort to bring victory closer. Their cohesion, volunteer work, humanitarian aid and steadfast faith in victory are proof of the indomitable strength of the community in this difficult time for the country.

Charitable events in support of the military/ Oleksandra Dzyndra
Charitable events in support of the military/ Oleksandra Dzyndra

People of the Community

Mykhailo Tsyhuliak is the head of the community.

Head of the community
Head of the community

Under his leadership, the community is actively working on the implementation of strategic projects aimed at improving the quality of life of residents, developing infrastructure, supporting education, culture and health care. Thanks to the coordinated work of the council headed by Mykhailo Tsyhuliak, the community effectively adapts to the challenges of wartime, strengthens international partnerships, attracts humanitarian aid and resources to support internally displaced persons and the military.

The leadership of the Trostianets community is actively working on expanding and strengthening international cooperation to attract resources and experience. A particularly important role in this process is played by close partnerships with the German community of Hofstetten, cooperation with which is based on joint projects and mutual support.

Active participation in international projects makes the Trostianets community open to innovation, promotes its integration into the European community, and strengthens its resilience in times of challenges.

Partner community of Hofstetten / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Partner community of Hofstetten / Oleksandra Dzyndra

International meetings were held in Hofstetten, bringing together mayors of neighboring cities and local business representatives who have supported Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. The event discussed further cooperation, shared experiences, and expressed gratitude for the continued solidarity and assistance during this difficult time for Ukraine. The meeting was an important step in strengthening international ties and support.

Delegation of Trostianets community in Hofstetten / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Delegation of Trostianets community in Hofstetten / Oleksandra Dzyndra
he Trostianets Village Council signed the “Cooperation Agreement” with the Hofstetten community, Germany / Oleksandra Dzyndra
he Trostianets Village Council signed the “Cooperation Agreement” with the Hofstetten community, Germany / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Another important partner of the Trostianets community is the Polish Gmina of Golub-Dobrzyń. This cooperation opens up new horizons for the exchange of experience and resources, helping both communities to develop. Joint projects with the Golub-Dobrzyń Gmina cover various areas, including social, cultural and economic development, which certainly has a positive effect on the quality of life of local residents.

The Trostianets community has officially started partnership relations with the Gmina of Golub-Dobrzyń, having signed a memorandum of cooperation. The main areas of cooperation include joint cultural and educational initiatives, exchange of best practices in community management, as well as cooperation in the field of socio-economic development. The agreement provides for joint activities, projects and programs aimed at strengthening ties between our communities and supporting the development of local initiatives.

Partner Gmina of Golub-Dobrzyń / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Partner Gmina of Golub-Dobrzyń / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Meeting with Polish and German partners / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Meeting with Polish and German partners / Oleksandra Dzyndra

With the initiative and support of the community leadership, a large number of international and national projects were implemented.

The “Good Neighborly Intergenerational Dialogue” project lasting three years provided the participants with a unique opportunity to study the latest approaches to public education and cultural animation, as well as to implement significant international and local initiatives.

During the conference in Lublin, participants had the opportunity to take part in educational trainings and cultural events that deepened Polish-Ukrainian cooperation.

"Good Neighborly Intergenerational Dialogue" / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Within the framework of the international technical assistance project of the European Union, a complete modernization of the administrative services center was carried out, which included the renovation of the premises; the creation of two administrative halls in the form of an open space; the arrangement of workplace for the provision of passport services, office space; waiting areas, an approach ramp, a sanitary room, and a children’s corner; the installation of video surveillance and security alarm system; and the purchase of computer equipment for 5 workplaces, furniture, signage, blinds, and air conditioner.

Administrative Services Center / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Administrative Services Center / Oleksandra Dzyndra

The “Youth HERE” project of the “Dream and Act” program is implemented by IREX with the financial support of the US Agency for International Development. As part of the project, the team of the youth center will undergo a long-term training course with the constant support of mentors. The program includes trainings, consultations and financial support for events in youth centers.

It is also planned to repair the premises of the youth center to make it into a modern, comfortable and barrier-free place.

“Youth HERE” Project,
“Youth HERE” Project, "Dream and Act" Program / Oleksandra Dzyndra

Development Strategy

The development strategy of the Trostianets Village Council is presently under development. The draft strategy has been posted on the official website of the Trostianets Village Council, which gives everyone the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the main provisions and submit their suggestions.

To ensure the effectiveness of the strategy development process, working groups were created, which include representatives of local authorities, public organizations, entrepreneurs and active residents of the community. These groups are engaged in collecting information, analyzing the needs and priorities of the community, as well as forming specific initiatives that can be included in the strategy.

Meeting of the working group / Oleksandra Dzyndra
Meeting of the working group / Oleksandra Dzyndra

The strategy envisages active attraction of investments, development of partnership relations with international organizations and communities of other countries. This opens up new opportunities for implementing joint projects aimed at improving infrastructure and the quality of life in the community.

If you want to contact an Ukrainian community or have additional questions regarding the project please contact us: [email protected]