Princely Halych: Intriguing Prospects for Archaeological Research

Abstract

According to statistical data, permanent and local archaeological researches have covered
only about ten per cent of the territory of Princely Halych, which opens up endless possibilities for
research at the site of the ancient city. The chapter highlights the importance of the scientific and
popular works by Antin Petrushevych, Lev Lavretskyi and Izydor Sharanevych, who in 1882
initiated the archaeological research on the mighty Principality of Halych (Galicia) and its capital,
and the excavation of the first Christian church in Halych – the Church of the Holy Saviour
mentioned in the Kyivan Chronicle. The little-known works of these scientists, which were
published in Lviv newspapers in the 1880s, clearly show that Lavretskyi and Sharanevych’s
findings received international acclaim and were a significant factor in rousing national
consciousness and stimulating social activity of the Galician Ukrainians. It is difficult to explain the
lack of interest in carrying out excavations outside the perimeter of the foundations of the Church,
which could have enhanced the social, historical, topographical analysis of the monument and its
surroundings. A particular fact that proves the importance of such research is the discovery of
pendant seals, which modern sphragistics attributes to Prince Volodymyrko Volodarevych (1141-
1153). This conclusion is in good agreement with the Kyivan Chronicle and the findings of the
archaeologists who excavated the Church of the Holy Saviour. All these facts provide grounds for
the hypothesis concerning the location of the State Chancellery and the mysterious Palace of the
12th century Lords of Galicia.