Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
History Without Barriers
History Without Barriers: Adapting Cobblestones on Rynok Square in Lviv
"History Without Barriers" is a project that redefines accessibility in historic spaces while preserving their authenticity. Lviv’s Rynok Square became the pilot location where innovative grinding and cutting of cobblestones created barrier-free pathways. This solution opens up the historic center to everyone, including veterans and people with limited mobility, fostering their social integration. Lviv proves that heritage adaptation is possible without compromising its uniqueness and that citis
Ukraine
Local
Lviv
Mainly urban
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Yes
2024-06-30
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
As a representative of an organisation, in partnership with other organisations
The project aims to create a barrier-free and inclusive space in the historic center of Lviv, particularly in Rynok Square. This initiative seeks to ensure equal access to the city's historical and cultural landmarks for all members of the population, with a special focus on individuals with limited mobility.
Target Groups:
Military personnel and civilians who sustained injuries as a result of hostilities
Individuals with disabilities, including those with musculoskeletal impairments
Persons with limited mobility, such as elderly individuals, parents with strollers, and people with temporary mobility restrictions
Local businesses
Residents of the city
The "History Without Barriers" project is particularly significant for wounded service members who have defended Ukraine. Creating an accessible urban space will aid their rehabilitation and integration into society, allowing them to move freely, visit establishments, and participate in Lviv’s cultural and civic life. Given the ongoing war, the number of people requiring a barrier-free environment may increase, making this project essential for ensuring a dignified and comfortable life for all affected groups.
Specific Objectives:
Modify the cobblestone pavement covering most of the pedestrian center by grinding and cutting to create a smooth and even surface, ensuring easier movement for all individuals.
Establish barrier-free entrances to museums, restaurants, shops, and other facilities to accommodate people using wheelchairs or crutches.
Increase public awareness through an information campaign aimed at educating Lviv’s residents and visitors on accessibility and inclusivity issues.
Achieved Outcomes:
Development of a fully accessible environment in the historic center while preserving authentic architectural elements.
Improved quality of life for individuals with limited mobility by facilitating social integration.
Enhancement of Lviv’s attractiveness as an inclusive and tourist-friendly city.
Target Groups:
Military personnel and civilians who sustained injuries as a result of hostilities
Individuals with disabilities, including those with musculoskeletal impairments
Persons with limited mobility, such as elderly individuals, parents with strollers, and people with temporary mobility restrictions
Local businesses
Residents of the city
The "History Without Barriers" project is particularly significant for wounded service members who have defended Ukraine. Creating an accessible urban space will aid their rehabilitation and integration into society, allowing them to move freely, visit establishments, and participate in Lviv’s cultural and civic life. Given the ongoing war, the number of people requiring a barrier-free environment may increase, making this project essential for ensuring a dignified and comfortable life for all affected groups.
Specific Objectives:
Modify the cobblestone pavement covering most of the pedestrian center by grinding and cutting to create a smooth and even surface, ensuring easier movement for all individuals.
Establish barrier-free entrances to museums, restaurants, shops, and other facilities to accommodate people using wheelchairs or crutches.
Increase public awareness through an information campaign aimed at educating Lviv’s residents and visitors on accessibility and inclusivity issues.
Achieved Outcomes:
Development of a fully accessible environment in the historic center while preserving authentic architectural elements.
Improved quality of life for individuals with limited mobility by facilitating social integration.
Enhancement of Lviv’s attractiveness as an inclusive and tourist-friendly city.
Barrier-free design
Accessibility
Integration
Authenticity
Collaboration
The project "History Without Barriers" aligns with the principles of sustainable development by integrating social, economic, and environmental aspects in a comprehensive way.
From a social sustainability perspective, the project ensures equal access for all members of society, regardless of their physical abilities. By removing physical, informational, and social barriers, it fosters inclusion, interaction, and integration, reducing stereotypes and discrimination. Furthermore, accessible urban spaces play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of veterans and individuals affected by war, helping them reintegrate into society.
In terms of economic sustainability, the project has involved investors and local businesses operating on Rynok Square, whose support enabled the initial implementation stages. Moreover, the creation of a barrier-free environment in the city center is expected to attract more tourists, boosting the local economy and increasing business opportunities.
The project also demonstrates environmental sustainability by repurposing existing cobblestones rather than replacing them with new materials. The process of grinding and cutting the stones preserves the historical pavement while reducing construction waste and minimizing the environmental impact.
This initiative serves as an exemplary model for other cities aiming to balance historical preservation with modern accessibility, proving that sustainable urban development can enhance both heritage conservation and inclusivity.
From a social sustainability perspective, the project ensures equal access for all members of society, regardless of their physical abilities. By removing physical, informational, and social barriers, it fosters inclusion, interaction, and integration, reducing stereotypes and discrimination. Furthermore, accessible urban spaces play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of veterans and individuals affected by war, helping them reintegrate into society.
In terms of economic sustainability, the project has involved investors and local businesses operating on Rynok Square, whose support enabled the initial implementation stages. Moreover, the creation of a barrier-free environment in the city center is expected to attract more tourists, boosting the local economy and increasing business opportunities.
The project also demonstrates environmental sustainability by repurposing existing cobblestones rather than replacing them with new materials. The process of grinding and cutting the stones preserves the historical pavement while reducing construction waste and minimizing the environmental impact.
This initiative serves as an exemplary model for other cities aiming to balance historical preservation with modern accessibility, proving that sustainable urban development can enhance both heritage conservation and inclusivity.
The key objectives of the project "History Without Barriers" in terms of aesthetics and quality of experience revolve around harmonizing historical preservation with modern accessibility requirements. By maintaining the authenticity of Rynok Square’s iconic cobblestones while integrating accessibility solutions, the project ensures that the space remains both visually appealing and functional for all visitors.
From an aesthetic perspective, the project prioritizes the preservation of the original materials, ensuring that the adapted cobblestones blend seamlessly with the historic environment. Every stage of the process—from the removal of stones to their refinement and reinstallation—adheres to strict guidelines to maintain the integrity, texture, and appearance of the material. The careful treatment of the stones allows for a visually cohesive urban landscape while enhancing usability.
In terms of user experience, the project significantly improves the comfort and accessibility of the square, making it more inclusive for people with disabilities, the elderly, parents with strollers, and other mobility-impaired individuals. The smooth, polished stone pathways not only facilitate movement but also subtly differentiate themselves from the surrounding cobblestone, making them visible and easily recognizable.
The project serves as an exemplary case in urban design by demonstrating how innovative craftsmanship and thoughtful planning can enhance both cultural heritage and modern usability. The techniques developed—such as precision stone grinding and cutting—offer valuable insights that can be applied in other historic cities facing similar challenges. By balancing aesthetics with functionality, this initiative sets a precedent for creating barrier-free environments that respect and celebrate the past while embracing contemporary needs.
From an aesthetic perspective, the project prioritizes the preservation of the original materials, ensuring that the adapted cobblestones blend seamlessly with the historic environment. Every stage of the process—from the removal of stones to their refinement and reinstallation—adheres to strict guidelines to maintain the integrity, texture, and appearance of the material. The careful treatment of the stones allows for a visually cohesive urban landscape while enhancing usability.
In terms of user experience, the project significantly improves the comfort and accessibility of the square, making it more inclusive for people with disabilities, the elderly, parents with strollers, and other mobility-impaired individuals. The smooth, polished stone pathways not only facilitate movement but also subtly differentiate themselves from the surrounding cobblestone, making them visible and easily recognizable.
The project serves as an exemplary case in urban design by demonstrating how innovative craftsmanship and thoughtful planning can enhance both cultural heritage and modern usability. The techniques developed—such as precision stone grinding and cutting—offer valuable insights that can be applied in other historic cities facing similar challenges. By balancing aesthetics with functionality, this initiative sets a precedent for creating barrier-free environments that respect and celebrate the past while embracing contemporary needs.
Accessibility in Lviv has always been a pressing issue, but the war has made it even more urgent. Creating a comfortable and accessible space in the city center is crucial for integrating vulnerable groups, ensuring that everyone can enjoy Lviv, access services, and visit key locations without obstacles.
As part of this project, barrier-free pathways have been installed on three sides of Rynok Square, with plans to extend them around the entire perimeter. This will provide convenient access to public transportation, administrative services, cultural and historical landmarks. Additionally, we are developing a concept for barrier-free tourist routes that will connect major locations and include training programs for tour guides.
Accessibility improvements also extend to buildings. For example, at the Center for Administrative Services on Rynok Square, all services are adapted for people with disabilities. Over the past year, the number of visitors requiring an accessible environment has increased by 53%.
One significant initiative is the installation of a transformer lift at the Garrison Church of St. Peter and Paul, ensuring unobstructed access to this place of remembrance for fallen soldiers.
The approaches developed in this project can be scaled across Lviv, creating a more inclusive urban space. By applying universal design principles, the city is setting an example of accessibility for other regions in Ukraine and beyond.
As part of this project, barrier-free pathways have been installed on three sides of Rynok Square, with plans to extend them around the entire perimeter. This will provide convenient access to public transportation, administrative services, cultural and historical landmarks. Additionally, we are developing a concept for barrier-free tourist routes that will connect major locations and include training programs for tour guides.
Accessibility improvements also extend to buildings. For example, at the Center for Administrative Services on Rynok Square, all services are adapted for people with disabilities. Over the past year, the number of visitors requiring an accessible environment has increased by 53%.
One significant initiative is the installation of a transformer lift at the Garrison Church of St. Peter and Paul, ensuring unobstructed access to this place of remembrance for fallen soldiers.
The approaches developed in this project can be scaled across Lviv, creating a more inclusive urban space. By applying universal design principles, the city is setting an example of accessibility for other regions in Ukraine and beyond.
At the initial stage of the project, a series of meetings and consultations were held with experts from various fields, including architects and historians. These discussions focused on analyzing existing barriers and the needs of individuals with limited mobility, considering the historical environment, previous archaeological studies, historical layers, and the technical possibilities for adapting the space. Special attention was given to practical aspects such as pavement selection, navigation organization, and spatial arrangement. The insights and feedback collected during these consultations were incorporated into the project’s concept and implementation.
Additionally, community input was gathered through various communication channels. Initially, many citizens were skeptical about the proposed changes; however, over time, a broader understanding of the necessity of a barrier-free environment emerged as residents personally experienced the benefits. The project's success in improving accessibility has led to greater public support, reinforcing the importance of inclusive urban development.
Additionally, community input was gathered through various communication channels. Initially, many citizens were skeptical about the proposed changes; however, over time, a broader understanding of the necessity of a barrier-free environment emerged as residents personally experienced the benefits. The project's success in improving accessibility has led to greater public support, reinforcing the importance of inclusive urban development.
The engagement of stakeholders at all levels—local, regional, national, and European—was essential to the project's success, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive approach to urban development.
At the local level, key stakeholders included the Lviv City Council, Halytskyi District Administration, and municipal enterprises responsible for renovation. The Halytskyi District Administration coordinated the project, overseeing the renovation of Rynok Square, while the municipal enterprise “SHRP of Halytskyi District” handled cobblestone processing and paving. The Department of Architecture and Spatial Development initiated the concept of an accessible Rynok Square, developing a roadmap and justifying its necessity. The Department of Historical Environment Protection ensured that all changes preserved the square’s historical authenticity. Additionally, the Department of Tourism and local businesses were involved, recognizing the impact of accessibility on Lviv’s attractiveness. Notably, all construction work was funded by non-budgetary sources, with private sector support emphasizing a shared commitment to inclusivity.
At the regional level, NGOs advocating for people with limited mobility, veterans, and displaced persons played a crucial role. Their efforts aligned with the national “Barrier-Free Routes” initiative, launched in 2025 by the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, integrating Lviv’s improvements into a broader strategy for accessibility.
Nationally, the project supports government initiatives to foster inclusivity in urban planning, reinforcing Ukraine’s commitment to equal opportunities in public spaces.
On the European level, the project attracts international interest in inclusive tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable urban development. Its implementation serves as a model for enhancing accessibility in historic city centers.
At the local level, key stakeholders included the Lviv City Council, Halytskyi District Administration, and municipal enterprises responsible for renovation. The Halytskyi District Administration coordinated the project, overseeing the renovation of Rynok Square, while the municipal enterprise “SHRP of Halytskyi District” handled cobblestone processing and paving. The Department of Architecture and Spatial Development initiated the concept of an accessible Rynok Square, developing a roadmap and justifying its necessity. The Department of Historical Environment Protection ensured that all changes preserved the square’s historical authenticity. Additionally, the Department of Tourism and local businesses were involved, recognizing the impact of accessibility on Lviv’s attractiveness. Notably, all construction work was funded by non-budgetary sources, with private sector support emphasizing a shared commitment to inclusivity.
At the regional level, NGOs advocating for people with limited mobility, veterans, and displaced persons played a crucial role. Their efforts aligned with the national “Barrier-Free Routes” initiative, launched in 2025 by the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, integrating Lviv’s improvements into a broader strategy for accessibility.
Nationally, the project supports government initiatives to foster inclusivity in urban planning, reinforcing Ukraine’s commitment to equal opportunities in public spaces.
On the European level, the project attracts international interest in inclusive tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable urban development. Its implementation serves as a model for enhancing accessibility in historic city centers.
The development and implementation of the project became a vivid example of an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to achieve a common goal. The project reflects the synergy of knowledge and disciplines such as architecture, urban planning, engineering, transport planning, cultural heritage, sociology, and inclusive design.
Specialists from the Department of Architecture and Spatial Development, together with the Chief Architect of Lviv, worked on creating a concept that considered the historical value of the urban space and its adaptation to modern accessibility requirements. Landscape architects ensured a harmonious combination of functionality and aesthetics, making the environment comfortable for all user categories.
Cultural heritage specialists played a key role in preserving the authenticity of the space, which is crucial for Lviv as a historic city. At the same time, engineers from various fields developed technical solutions that met modern standards of accessibility and durability.
Transport planners contributed to creating convenient and safe transport connections, considering the needs of all population groups, including people with limited mobility. Municipal services played an essential role in ensuring the high quality of construction work, guaranteeing the longevity of the implemented solutions.
The interaction of representatives from different disciplines facilitated a deeper understanding of the project's challenges and allowed for comprehensive solutions. This approach significantly improved the quality of the implemented space, making it convenient, inclusive, and harmoniously integrated into the urban environment. As a result, the project not only enhanced the urban space but also became a symbol of Lviv’s openness to innovative ideas and European standards of urban development.
Specialists from the Department of Architecture and Spatial Development, together with the Chief Architect of Lviv, worked on creating a concept that considered the historical value of the urban space and its adaptation to modern accessibility requirements. Landscape architects ensured a harmonious combination of functionality and aesthetics, making the environment comfortable for all user categories.
Cultural heritage specialists played a key role in preserving the authenticity of the space, which is crucial for Lviv as a historic city. At the same time, engineers from various fields developed technical solutions that met modern standards of accessibility and durability.
Transport planners contributed to creating convenient and safe transport connections, considering the needs of all population groups, including people with limited mobility. Municipal services played an essential role in ensuring the high quality of construction work, guaranteeing the longevity of the implemented solutions.
The interaction of representatives from different disciplines facilitated a deeper understanding of the project's challenges and allowed for comprehensive solutions. This approach significantly improved the quality of the implemented space, making it convenient, inclusive, and harmoniously integrated into the urban environment. As a result, the project not only enhanced the urban space but also became a symbol of Lviv’s openness to innovative ideas and European standards of urban development.
The project "History Without Barriers" represents an innovative approach to creating an accessible urban environment, going beyond conventional practices in this field. Unlike standard solutions, which often involve replacing historical materials with modern ones, we integrate traditional materials with cutting-edge technologies, preserving the city's historical appearance.
The key innovation lies in the use of a unique method for processing and polishing cobblestones, allowing us to maintain their authenticity while ensuring barrier-free access. Before the implementation of this project, such methods had not been used in Lviv, making it a pioneering initiative in adapting urban spaces without compromising their historical character.
However, the project's innovation extends beyond physical accessibility. It also incorporates informational and communicational accessibility, creating better navigation and understanding of the urban space for people with different needs. This comprehensive approach, combining the preservation of cultural heritage with state-of-the-art technological solutions, sets a new standard for urban adaptation that can serve as a model for other cities.
Thus, this project is not only a technical innovation but also a significant social step toward an inclusive society where everyone has equal access to shared cultural spaces.
The key innovation lies in the use of a unique method for processing and polishing cobblestones, allowing us to maintain their authenticity while ensuring barrier-free access. Before the implementation of this project, such methods had not been used in Lviv, making it a pioneering initiative in adapting urban spaces without compromising their historical character.
However, the project's innovation extends beyond physical accessibility. It also incorporates informational and communicational accessibility, creating better navigation and understanding of the urban space for people with different needs. This comprehensive approach, combining the preservation of cultural heritage with state-of-the-art technological solutions, sets a new standard for urban adaptation that can serve as a model for other cities.
Thus, this project is not only a technical innovation but also a significant social step toward an inclusive society where everyone has equal access to shared cultural spaces.
The project’s methodology followed a structured, interdisciplinary approach that balanced historical preservation with improved accessibility. The curved cobblestones of Rynok Square are a key element of its historical appearance, but their uneven surface creates mobility challenges for individuals using wheelchairs, strollers, and other assistive devices.
To address this, two specialized enterprises equipped with professional stone-processing tools were engaged to cut and grind the cobblestones. To further accelerate the work, the city acquired a specialized stone-cutting machine and installed it at a local production facility, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing project timelines.
Inspired by Freiburg, Germany, the methodology was structured into key stages. First, spatial research was conducted to analyze the area’s characteristics and explore accessibility solutions from other historic cities. Multiple accessibility models for Rynok Square were then developed and evaluated. Stakeholder meetings—including municipal departments, contractors, and community representatives—were organized to refine the concept. Finally, a detailed improvement plan was finalized and implemented, with continuous adjustments to stone-processing techniques as needed.
The construction phase involved removing the old pavement, cutting the upper curved portion of the cobblestones to create a smoother surface, and laying the processed stones in a way that ensured both accessibility and historical authenticity. This approach allowed Lviv to enhance urban mobility while preserving the city’s cultural heritage.
To address this, two specialized enterprises equipped with professional stone-processing tools were engaged to cut and grind the cobblestones. To further accelerate the work, the city acquired a specialized stone-cutting machine and installed it at a local production facility, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing project timelines.
Inspired by Freiburg, Germany, the methodology was structured into key stages. First, spatial research was conducted to analyze the area’s characteristics and explore accessibility solutions from other historic cities. Multiple accessibility models for Rynok Square were then developed and evaluated. Stakeholder meetings—including municipal departments, contractors, and community representatives—were organized to refine the concept. Finally, a detailed improvement plan was finalized and implemented, with continuous adjustments to stone-processing techniques as needed.
The construction phase involved removing the old pavement, cutting the upper curved portion of the cobblestones to create a smoother surface, and laying the processed stones in a way that ensured both accessibility and historical authenticity. This approach allowed Lviv to enhance urban mobility while preserving the city’s cultural heritage.
The core idea of the project can be replicated in other locations and contexts, as the practice of creating barrier-free environments in historic city centers is becoming increasingly relevant. This experience is particularly valuable in the context of post-war reconstruction in cities affected by military conflicts. The principles of the project can be applied not only to the renovation of historic squares but also to the creation of accessible environments in other public spaces such as parks, courtyards, streets, and buildings. Accessibility is essential not only in historic city centers but also in all places where people live, work, and spend their leisure time.
One of the key transferable elements of the project is its comprehensive approach, which includes not only the physical adaptation of spaces but also ensuring informational and communicational accessibility. This means that when implementing similar projects in other locations, it is crucial to consider the needs of different groups of people with limited mobility, providing them with access to information, services, and opportunities for interaction.
Additionally, the methodology used in this project—combining urban planning solutions with inclusive design principles—can be adapted for various contexts, including modern urban developments, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. The technology and processes involved in implementing smooth surfaces and clear signage can be standardized and applied in different environments. Moreover, the lessons learned from community engagement, collaboration with experts, can be shared with other cities and organizations working to enhance urban accessibility.
By integrating these elements, the project serves as a scalable and adaptable model for improving accessibility and social inclusion in various geographic, social, and cultural settings."
One of the key transferable elements of the project is its comprehensive approach, which includes not only the physical adaptation of spaces but also ensuring informational and communicational accessibility. This means that when implementing similar projects in other locations, it is crucial to consider the needs of different groups of people with limited mobility, providing them with access to information, services, and opportunities for interaction.
Additionally, the methodology used in this project—combining urban planning solutions with inclusive design principles—can be adapted for various contexts, including modern urban developments, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. The technology and processes involved in implementing smooth surfaces and clear signage can be standardized and applied in different environments. Moreover, the lessons learned from community engagement, collaboration with experts, can be shared with other cities and organizations working to enhance urban accessibility.
By integrating these elements, the project serves as a scalable and adaptable model for improving accessibility and social inclusion in various geographic, social, and cultural settings."
This project addresses the global challenge of urban accessibility by providing a local solution that balances the preservation of cultural heritage with the creation of an inclusive environment. Across the world, historic cities face the challenge of adapting public spaces for people with limited mobility without compromising the authenticity of architectural landmarks. Lviv’s Rynok Square serves as an example of how barrier-free infrastructure can be integrated while maintaining the historical character of the space.
On a local level, the project solves the problem of social isolation for people with disabilities by ensuring equal access to administrative, cultural, and tourist sites. Thanks to the smooth surface, individuals with mobility impairments can move freely, promoting their social integration and active participation in city life.
On a global scale, this experience can be adopted by other cities seeking solutions for creating barrier-free environments in historic areas. The project supports the development of inclusive tourism by attracting more visitors with disabilities, which also benefits the economy. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 – 'Sustainable Cities and Communities,' demonstrating how urban spaces can be adapted to blend cultural heritage with modern accessibility standards."
On a local level, the project solves the problem of social isolation for people with disabilities by ensuring equal access to administrative, cultural, and tourist sites. Thanks to the smooth surface, individuals with mobility impairments can move freely, promoting their social integration and active participation in city life.
On a global scale, this experience can be adopted by other cities seeking solutions for creating barrier-free environments in historic areas. The project supports the development of inclusive tourism by attracting more visitors with disabilities, which also benefits the economy. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 – 'Sustainable Cities and Communities,' demonstrating how urban spaces can be adapted to blend cultural heritage with modern accessibility standards."
The project to create a barrier-free space in Rynok Square, Lviv, has given significant results and positive outcomes for both direct and indirect beneficiaries.
Achieved Results and Impact:
In 2023-2024, 750 square meters of barrier-free pathways were installed in front of the City Hall. In 2024, the work continued on the northern side, adding another 460 square meters of accessible pavement. By 2025, the western side will be completed, contributing an additional 429 square meters. Altogether, this will account for over 13% of Rynok Square, significantly improving mobility for people with disabilities, individuals with limited mobility, parents with strollers, and the elderly.
Impact on Direct Beneficiaries:
People with disabilities can now navigate the city's main square without obstacles and access historical landmarks, administrative services, cafes, and shops.
Local businesses and establishments in Rynok Square have reported an increase in visitors, particularly among people with limited mobility, which positively affects local economic activity.
Tourists and Lviv residents now experience greater comfort when moving through Rynok Square, enhancing the city's overall appeal.
Impact on Indirect Beneficiaries and Society as a Whole:
The project has become a strong catalyst for developing barrier-free infrastructure in Lviv and raising public awareness of accessibility needs.
A new approach to adapting historic spaces has emerged, balancing the preservation of the city’s authenticity with the necessity of inclusivity.
Public perception of accessibility has shifted from skepticism about modifying historical spaces during wartime to an understanding of its importance.
Collaboration and Future Prospects:
Lviv City Council is actively working with investors and business owners in the area to continue developing an inclusive environment. This project demonstrates Lviv’s commitment to creating a more accessible urban space.
Achieved Results and Impact:
In 2023-2024, 750 square meters of barrier-free pathways were installed in front of the City Hall. In 2024, the work continued on the northern side, adding another 460 square meters of accessible pavement. By 2025, the western side will be completed, contributing an additional 429 square meters. Altogether, this will account for over 13% of Rynok Square, significantly improving mobility for people with disabilities, individuals with limited mobility, parents with strollers, and the elderly.
Impact on Direct Beneficiaries:
People with disabilities can now navigate the city's main square without obstacles and access historical landmarks, administrative services, cafes, and shops.
Local businesses and establishments in Rynok Square have reported an increase in visitors, particularly among people with limited mobility, which positively affects local economic activity.
Tourists and Lviv residents now experience greater comfort when moving through Rynok Square, enhancing the city's overall appeal.
Impact on Indirect Beneficiaries and Society as a Whole:
The project has become a strong catalyst for developing barrier-free infrastructure in Lviv and raising public awareness of accessibility needs.
A new approach to adapting historic spaces has emerged, balancing the preservation of the city’s authenticity with the necessity of inclusivity.
Public perception of accessibility has shifted from skepticism about modifying historical spaces during wartime to an understanding of its importance.
Collaboration and Future Prospects:
Lviv City Council is actively working with investors and business owners in the area to continue developing an inclusive environment. This project demonstrates Lviv’s commitment to creating a more accessible urban space.