UOC appeals court decision on Dormition Cathedral in Volodymyr

Holy Dormition Cathedral in Volodymyr. Photo: Anga Travel

The religious community of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) has filed an appeal against the decision of the Volyn Regional Commercial Court to return the Holy Dormition Cathedral in Volodymyr to state ownership. This was reported to Suspilne by Andriy Bokoch, a member of the regional council's temporary oversight commission.

The appeal has been submitted to the Northwestern Appellate Commercial Court.

The Holy Dormition Cathedral is a cultural heritage monument of national significance. The complex includes the cathedral itself, built in 1156, a bell tower from 1494, and walls with gates dating back to the 17th century. The site is state-owned.

Previously, on April 11, 2023, the Volyn Regional Council voted to ban UOC activities in the region and recommended terminating lease agreements with the religious community. A similar decision was made by the Volodymyr City Council on April 21.

The free-use agreement for the cathedral expired on July 1, 2024, with no plans for its renewal.

As reported by the UOJ, in November 2024, the Volyn Regional Commercial Court ruled to return the cathedral to state ownership.

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