INTONATION OF PLACE: THE CHURCH OF SAINT BASIL THE GREAT IN KYIV AS AN ARCHITECTURAL EXPRESSION OF GENIUS LOCI

Abstract

Purpose. To identify and analyze the presence of Genius loci in the architectural language of the Church of St. Basil the Great in Kyiv as a form of spatial and artistic expression of the site’s unique intonation. The research aims to reveal how the church not only harmoniously responds to the cultural and historical context of its environment but, through a subtle interplay of architectural techniques and symbols, shapes and conveys the distinctive spirit of the place, embodying its multi-layered essence in a contemporary architectural image. Methodology. The research applies an interdisciplinary approach that includes the analysis of historical sources and archaeological materials from the Kopyriv Kynets area to clarify its cultural and historical context, a review of excavation results on the church site to reconstruct its historical fabric, the study of architectural forms of the Church of St. Basil the Great in the context of the traditions of Kyivan Rus’, the Halych-Volhynian Principality, Carpathian bell towers, and Kyiv watchtowers as components of local architectural identity. A spatial analysis of the building’s interaction with the landscape and terrain is also conducted as a means of architectural interpretation of Genius loci. In addition, an interpretative analysis of architectural elements as symbols and artistic means of expressing the unique intonation and spirit of the place is performed. Results. The architectural concept of the Church of St. Basil the Great in Kyiv is based on a profound comprehension of the historical and archaeological context of the area, which serves as the foundation for the architectural interpretation of Genius loci. The natural terrain and spirit of the place determined the formation of a unique terraced structure that organically integrates into the slopes of the ravine, creating a holistic spatial image. It has been established that the architectural forms of the church synthesize the traditions of Kyivan Rus’ and the Halych-Volhynian Principality, reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary architectural expression, emphasizing the building’s deep connection to Genius loci. Scientific novelty. For the first time, a comprehensive interdisciplinary analysis of the Church of St. Basil the Great in Kyiv has been conducted through the prism of the Genius loci concept as a spatial and symbolic category. A new interpretation is proposed of the interaction between architectural form and the historical-cultural context of Kopyriv Kynets, and mechanisms of conveying the site’s intonation through architectural means of expression have been identified. Practical relevance. The research results can be applied in contemporary sacred architecture design, in teaching architectural composition and architectural history. The material will be useful to architects and researchers striving to preserve local identity in design practice and cultural policy.