It’s one of the most photographed places in Ukraine – or at least it was before Russia invaded the country. Interestingly, the origins of this amazing place frequented by lovers go all the way back to the tensions and secrecy of another war – the Cold War.
The Tunnel of Love is a breathtaking sight and is (was) very popular with tourists. In Autumn, it turns into the Tunnel of Colors. Photo: Myroslava Rakovets
Just outside the city of Klevan in western Ukraine, a two-mile-long section of private railway has turned into an enchanting natural tunnel.
The picturesque surroundings make for a lovely stroll for couples and singles alike. Only three times a day does a train plod along the tree tunnel, transporting wood to a nearby fiberboard factory. Otherwise, it’s all quiet and the setting is indeed romantic – just like the ‘Tunnel of Love’ should be. The place is also called the Green Mile Tunnel, named after the bright leafy branches arching over the railway.
Three times a day a train plods through the tunnel on its way to a nearby fiberboard factory. It’s rather slow but still… Couples should not totally lose themselves in each other here. Photo: Serhei
Not surprisingly, the tunnel is at its lushest during the spring and summer, but the colorful foliage of fall and the snow-covered branches of winter are also captivating sights.
According to local legend, the couples who walk through the tunnel will be granted a wish, given their intentions are sincere.
The first few hundred meters of the railway line are perfectly ordinary, looking much like any other railway track in the world. Soon after, however, the trees close in towards the rails. Why? According to local journalist Alla Sadovnyk, the story can be traced all the way back to the Cold War.
Near the fiberboard factory, the railway splits and the track to the left runs to a military base hidden in the forest. Of course, photographing military sites is unwise even in peacetime, let alone in a bloody crisis Ukraine has recently endured. Nevertheless, a glance at Google maps shows large numbers of military vehicles stationed on the base. Sadovnyk explains that during the paranoia of the Soviet era, trees were deliberately planted alongside the track to conceal the transport of military hardware.
The promenade of lovers is a legacy of war. Photo: Дядя Саша
So this beautiful place to worship love has sprouted in the shadow of war. What a paradox of life. And unfortunately, that shadow is there again and is more menacing than ever.
You know what? Anybody considering starting a bloody and useless war should walk along here first. Because who knows? The love thriving here amidst all the darkness of the world might as well change their minds before it’s too late.
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