The UNESCO protected Changing lights of Дзеркальний струмінь (Dzerkalʹnyi struminʹ)

When you surf into the UNESCO's encyclopaedia, you wouldn't be surprised to stumble upon this fountain.
Previously known in Russian as the Zerkalnaya Struya, the natural fountain was founded in 1947. It is one of the most remarkable, and recognizable monuments in Kharkiv, earning its place in the encyclopaedia, and on the metro card.

The fountain used to have an alley with the busts of WW2 heroes, but it was removed way before I stepped foot in Kharkiv, Ukraine.

The mirror stream is absolutely phenomenal. I'll go as far as to say it is a "must visit" location if anyone comes by Kharkiv.
The architecture is mouth opening, no wonder it is under the protection of UNESCO.

The stream overlooks the Opera and Ballet theatre, stands on the Sums'ka street. When it is not winter, the monument is surrounded by dancing water fountains. Making the place that much more magical.

The mirror stream is considered as one of the seven wonders of the city, and a symbol of Kharkiv. Turning back the history pages, it makes sense why the monument boasts such a prestigious reputation.

However, the architecture isn't unique. It is believe the fountain is a recreation of the Atlanka. Albeit it was created to commemorate the victory of WW2, it is believed there was a soviet official who had it built for his young lover.

oooh scandalous!

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For as long as I remember, the changing bight lights have been there. I believe it makes the fountain that much more majestic.

In winter, when the sunlight reflects on the monument and bounces from the snow, the entire monument shines like the moon. At night, the lights make it dance. And the rhythm is in your heart.

In less colder seasons, when the fountain is working, the pavilion has a beautiful stream of water flowing; which gives it the "mirror stream" name.

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The structure is mind blowing. So simple, yet so much complexity. From the inside you truly appreciate the execution.

Looking up will almost put you in a trance with the changing bright lights and the geometric pattern.

Standing inside the monument is a different experience. Engulfed with the lights and the reflective walls. It feels so different since this sort of experience only takes place within a closed space.

But here, you are in the open. And yet, it feels breath-taking.

In my experience I haven't come across anyone in Kharkov who hasn't had pictures taken with the mirror stream. It is next to impossible to leave the place without wanting to document the experience.

I did a photoshoot myself. The pictures turned out great. Click on my face and get redirected to the entire collection!

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The monument is surrounded by a small garden with plenty of seats. There also is a pond behind. The place is one of the favourite hangout locations for locals.

There is a beautiful fountain, a majestic church in the back, birds flying and a fresh atmosphere to spend an afternoon.

Go there for a date, end of shift release or just a walk. Disappointment isn't on the table.

The sumskaya street, where the mirror stream is located, is one the longest streets in Kharkiv. It stretches to over 4.2km long and contains some of the most notable spots of the city. It also bridges to major districts (rayon) of the city.

The mirror stream is somewhere around the small red circle. Let me take you to the big red circle where some decorations from the new year are still awaiting us.

Sumskaya street, especially this part of it, is never shy when it comes to celebrations. The area is as lively as it can get. The night life over here is unmatchable.

From being one of the main transit roads between 2 major districts, it also is a hub to some of the best night-pubs, restaurants and antique stores.

During the weekends it is such an energetic place to be in. No nights are dull in here. Especially with those bright lights brining color to every dark night.

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So the next time someone asks you:

"Hey, have you been to the mirror stream?"

You can say:

Yes, I have!

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