If you find yourself in Kyiv, be sure to visit Hordytskoho Street. There stands the first building in the modern style, constructed in the current capital of Ukraine. However, it is remarkable not only for this. The house astonishes with its ancient architecture, and all decorative elements are united in a single story.

On the facade, an ancient myth about Chronos and Zeus is encoded. The pediment is adorned with an image of Chronos, from which the narrative begins. In Greek mythology, the god Chronos symbolized time and devoured his children to maintain power. One day, his wife Rhea hid their youngest son Zeus, and her assistants, the Curetes, made noise to conceal the baby's cries. Thanks to this, Zeus survived and became the supreme god. This legend is what the architect sought to embody in architectural forms. Additionally, above the windows of the building, you can see an ornament stylized as ancient: garlands of oak and laurel leaves.

The house was built in the late 19th century and was originally intended for rental as residential and commercial spaces. Due to its unusual architecture and vivid storyline, it was nicknamed 'The Spirit's Cradle' in Kyiv. In the 1920s, the income-generating house, like many others, was nationalized and converted into communal apartments.

Unfortunately, the building suffered greatly during World War II. In 1941, during fierce battles, the house nearly burned down, and some decorative elements that distinguished it from other buildings in Kyiv were lost. Restoration began only in 1948. During the Soviet era, the building was recognized as an architectural monument. However, despite this status, it is currently in a deplorable state.