Prosecutor’s Office Takes Legal Action to Force Protective Agreement for Kyiv’s Zhytniy Market

Preserving Kyiv’s Zhytniy Market

According to Главком: In a move to safeguard a key cultural landmark, Ukraine’s prosecutor’s office is going to court to compel the facility’s custodian to sign a protective agreement for the Zhytniy Market in Kyiv. This legal step follows the custodian’s persistent refusal to meet its legal obligations, leaving the heritage site vulnerable and without proper security. Since July 2025, the market has been listed among Kyiv’s newly discovered cultural heritage sites, underscoring its importance to the capital’s identity.

History and Significance of Zhytniy Market

Located in the historic Podil district, the Zhytniy Market boasts a centuries-old legacy. It has operated since the times of Kyivan Rus, and by the 15th century, it had become the city’s primary trading hub. The current building, constructed in 1980, spans over 11,000 square meters and offers 1,350 stalls, making it Europe’s largest covered market. Its facade features a metal panel titled ‘From the Varangians to the Greeks,’ created by artist Anatoliy Domnych.

Plans for a lease auction in 2024, originally scheduled for March 25, were cancelled. The starting bid was set at 2.5 million hryvnias per month. Restaurateur Yevhen Klopotenko raised the issue with Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko, but the auction never took place. This failure has further complicated efforts to secure the protective agreement.

The Kyiv City Prosecutor’s Office stated: 'Meanwhile, the custodian has long evaded its legal duty to sign a protective agreement, making it impossible to properly ensure the security and preservation of this cultural heritage site.'

The situation at Zhytniy Market extends beyond heritage conservation, impacting urban development and local business. Without a protective agreement, the historic structure faces increased risks, while plans for leasing and future use remain stalled. This could hinder cultural life in the capital and dampen economic activity in the Podil area.

The ongoing challenges surrounding the Zhytniy Market highlight broader issues of heritage preservation in Kyiv, similar to recent concerns about unauthorized construction in historic areas. As authorities push for compliance with protective agreements, the need for robust regulations to safeguard the city’s cultural landmarks becomes increasingly evident.