On May 9 at 12:00, in the Navodnytsky Park of the capital, near the monument to the founders of Kyiv, the opening of the “Love Alley” will take place. During this event, the families of the fallen Heroes of Ukraine will plant 30 blooming cherry trees and other ornamental trees as a tribute to those who gave their lives for the freedom of the country, for their loved ones.
This information was shared by the initiator of the “LIVING” project, Olena Sokal’ska.
Details about Love Alley in Kyiv
The organizers chose the cherry blossom for its deep symbolism in Japanese culture. Its short-lived but vibrant blooming serves as a reminder of the value of each moment, the fragility, and the unyielding strength of life, teaching us to cherish beauty even when it is fleeting. These qualities make the cherry blossom a central symbol of the new Alley.
What is the “LIVING” project?
The “Love Alley” project was initiated by the community of wives and mothers of fallen Heroes called “LIVING”. This association includes over 300 members from 25 cities across Ukraine. For more than two years, women, along with professional artists, have been transforming their pain into art through art rehabilitation workshops and participation in exhibitions of love story paintings titled “Painting with Heart”, finding mutual support and healing for their wounded souls.
The cherry trees and other flowering plants for the “Love Alley” were cultivated by the team of the “ECO-COUNTRY” nursery. This team also experienced the bitterness of loss, as their main nursery in Bakhmut was destroyed. However, they did not give up.
“We could say we lost our life’s work. But we will say it differently: we preserved the team. We fought back. And we will grow even more. Each of our workers evacuated not only personal belongings but also plants they grew themselves. Today these plants continue to live — and help others,” the representatives of “ECO-COUNTRY” share.
The team is also actively involved in supporting the Ukrainian military, directing 10% of their income to the needs of special operations forces.
About Love Alley in Navodnytsky Park: Main Information
The location for the Alley — Navodnytsky Park — was chosen deliberately. It is here, near the monument to the founders of Kyiv, where residents have confessed their love, celebrated weddings, and made vows for decades. The participants of the “LIVING” project also have their touching stories connected to this place. From now on, every spring, trees will bloom here, symbolizing a love that, according to the authors’ intention, is capable of overcoming death and will remain in the heart forever.
“Kyiv is a city of love. Especially in May, when everything around blooms. Despite the ruins and destruction caused by the war, we want to cultivate life. And beauty. Beauty that grows from memory, pain, and hope,” the organizers note.
The “LIVING” project gifts this “Love Alley” to the city, and the city authorities promise to take care of the planted trees.
