Sights of Belarus - a tidbit for those who collect vivid impressions. The identity of this country lies in the uniqueness of national traditions, in a rich culture. Traveling to Belarus will present many fascinating acquaintances with historical and cultural monuments.
What to see in Belarus first
To make the trip bring only positive emotions, it makes sense to plan the route in advance, and the guides in Belarus will help you find your way around the area . Please note that some monuments of nature and architecture are located in the same city or in neighboring settlements - this will allow you to see as much interesting as possible in one visit.
1. Brest
If you think what to see in Belarus, then the legendary city of Brest should be the first item. This is a quiet and calm city, which is lost in the southwestern part of the country. The cultural life of Brest is saturated, and its economy is developing dynamically.
A geographical feature is the fact that Brest is at the confluence of the Western Bug and the Mukhavets. Historians have established that the first mention of this city dates back to 1019. It was then that a new type of elm spread in Russia - birch bark, which gave the name to the city.
Brest has a heroic story. Attacks of enemies and raids of nomads many times destroyed the architecture of the city. Currently, the Brest Fortress is of great interest to tourists, which witnessed the heroic battles during the Great Patriotic War. The feat of the people is captured here in stone.
Official website: http://www.brest-fortress.by/
2. Nesvizh castle (Nesvizh)
The city of Nesvizh comfortably settled almost next to Minsk. This is a small provincial town, which once was a major Lithuanian principality. Nesvizh Castle is a reflection of the luxury of the Lithuanian nobility. He is big, ambitious and very strict. The architectural structure was built in the sixteenth century.
Initially, the project was built of wood. Later, the building was modernized many times. In the facing of its facade, as well as in the construction of internal partitions, stone has already been used. The palace complex is decorated in a restrained style. The tan facades contrast with the terracotta roof. Rounded grating windows have a direct reference to the style of the old days, when each window must be protected from unwanted intrusions.
The castle was planned as a fortification. Its architecture is subordinate to the idea of protection. For example, it is known that ancient architects fortified earthen ramparts with a brick wall of 4 m. Around the castle, deep moats dug, which filled with water from the local river Osh. In the 16th century, getting into some kind of fortification was possible only through a collapsible bridge. In this castle a few secret passages were arranged.
As a defensive structure, the castle was fully justified, since it was protected by 30 guns. Those tourists who decide for themselves what to see in Belarus should definitely get acquainted with this castle and its main attraction - the Golden Hall.
Official website: http://niasvizh.by/ru/
3. Mir Castle (Mir)
In the Grodno region there is an amazing architectural structure - Mir Castle. From the side, it looks like a holiday cake. Creamy brown tones in the facade and peaked turrets make it festive and elegant. But in fact it is a powerful fortification. The towers of the castle have a height of 25 m. Mir Castle has everything for those tourists who think what to see in Belarus.
It is interesting that the underground part of the castle significantly exceeds its ground component. The dungeon has an extensive system of transitions in which it is easy to get lost without an escort. Filmmakers of adventure films often use the castle as a backdrop for their films.
For tourists, the castle is also interesting because, according to legend, ghosts live in it. Who knows, maybe it's true. The tour group must be informed that at night the clang of weapons and groans are heard in the dungeon. The courtyard of the castle is lined with large paving stones, which further enhances the impression of the ancient structure.
As for the functions of the fortification, they were reinforced with water protection. Now the castle has access roads so that it is more convenient for travelers to inspect it.
Official website: http://mirzamak.by/
4. Church of Saints Simeon and Elena (Minsk)
Minsk Church of Saints Simeon and Helen was built of red brick. It is visible from different points of the city, since the building is quite high. An amazing feature of this monument is that it fills with kindness and bright thoughts of everyone who visits it. The church was built at the beginning of the last century.
It retained its original architecture, although Minsk was exposed to destructive effects many times during the war. The temple is dedicated to the dead children of Minsk nobleman Voinilovich. In 1910, the temple was consecrated. It has a second name by the color of the stone - Red Church.
Voinilovich is a prominent political figure in Belarus at the beginning of the 20th century. The church received the name of the saints who were the patrons of his children.
Soviet power caused the destruction of many historical sights of Belarus. This church was no exception. However, the authorities cherish the culture of the country, so the church was restored at different times. The remains of Edward Voinilovich were reburied in it in 2006.
5. St. Sophia Cathedral (Polotsk)
Looking for what to see in Belarus? St. Sophia Cathedral in Polotsk should not be left without your attention. The Christian shrine, built in the eleventh century, initially served as a fortification. State power has had its iconic symbols at all times. In the 11th century, Sophia Cathedral was such a symbol. It was on the territory of this cathedral that ambassadors from other states were received.
It housed cult shrines. The cathedral has been rebuilt or reconstructed many times since the 11th century. But its architectural appearance underwent a global change in the 18th century. The cathedral was blown up so that an even more luxurious structure could be built in its place. Nevertheless, the elements of 11th century architecture in the new building have survived to the present day. For example, here you can see the remains of ancient frescoes.
The cathedral is a masterpiece of architectural sights of Belarus. The decoration and geometry of the towers is such that visitors experience a real aesthetic shock. The optical perspective gives the impression of a lacy outline of the towers resembling a crown.
The architectural style in which the cathedral is made meets the baroque criteria. Among the many relief compositions, the “New Testament Trinity” is best known. Her performance style is Rococo. Sightseeing in Belarus, tourists invariably admire the St. Sophia Cathedral.
Official website: http://sophia.polotsk.museum
See the beautiful places of Belarus in this wonderful video!
6. Khatyn
The Khatyn memorial complex is a symbolic symbol of the hot pain of the Belarusian people. Khatyn itself is not on any map of Belarus. The tragedy of a small village scorched by the Nazis is immortalized in a memorial complex. The events of the war are captured here in harsh and expressive architectural solutions. The memorial complex is executed in black and gray tones, which enhances the feeling of grief.
The village was completely destroyed in 1943 on March 22. Of all the inhabitants, only 3 were saved. Many architects claimed the right to capture the Khatyn tragedy in stone, so a professional competition was held among them in the sixties in Belarus. Architects Gradov, Levin and Zenkovich, as well as sculptor Selikhanov, got the right to work on the project.
Means of the image used the most concise and realistic. The monument is very emotional, which is ensured by sound and special architectural plastics. The surviving blacksmith I. Kaminsky carries in his arms his dead son to the sound of the bell. There are no architectural excesses. But the sorrow of the suffering people is conveyed unusually deeply.
Official website: http://khatyn.by/ru/
7. Bobruisk fortress (Bobruisk)
Bobruisk fortress was built at the behest of Emperor Alexander 1 . The author of the project was K. Opperman, who has the count title. In the professional luggage of the graph by that time there were already several similar works, since by profession he was a fortification engineer. The start of work is June 4, 1810. The citadel in Bobruisk had the first class of fortifications.
In total, the fortress occupied an area of 120 hectares. Protection was provided by earthen ramparts 10 meters high, and the fortress was also surrounded by water. To protect the fortress put 300 guns with different calibers. Ammunition was delivered for about a year. It was the Bobruisk fortress in 1812 that was the first to take the blow of the Napoleonic army.
The work was completed only in 1855, when the Bobruisk fortress became truly fortified. In addition, by this time the style of classicism was fully embodied in it. Among the attractions of Belarus Bobruisk fortress occupies a special place. This is a whole city with its cultural and social infrastructure. On the territory of the fortress there was even a cobbled Botanical Garden and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral . Since 2002, the fortress is on the state list of cultural values of Belarus.
8. Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve (Vitebsk)
If you have not decided what to visit in Belarus, be sure to pay attention to the Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve. Excellent conditions for ecotourism and professional hunting are created here. In addition, the fertile nature of the Berezinsky Reserve is the key to a good holiday with young children.
For guests, there are many options for relaxation: from a guided tour to complex ecological tours. Several guest houses are equipped with civilized amenities.
In 1983, an international seminar on biosphere reserves was held here, attended by representatives of 50 countries. As for the historical significance of the reserve, it will be interesting for tourists to know that a medieval path "from the Varangians to the Greeks" passed through its territory.
Official website: http://www.berezinsky.by/ru/
9. Cathedral Church of St. Francis Xavier (Grodno)
Sights of Belarus leave an indelible impression on everyone who is closely acquainted with them. Church of St. Francis Xavier has become a prominent monument of architectural architecture of the 17th century. It was once considered the most luxurious in Poland. In the seventeenth century, the church occupied an entire residential quarter. The interior of the church was pretentiously expensive, as Catholics had a penchant for expensive decorations in architecture.
The interiors of the church are decorated with expensive decorations, mosaics and paintings. As for the fresco painting, the church is full of a wide variety of compositions from them. Fresco painting smoothly passes from wall to wall inside the church. At the same time, the authors of the project tried to adhere to some specific plot compositions in the paintings.
The church looks elegant and festive. The facades are finished with white soft plaster. The highlight of the church was the peaked turrets of emerald green. Below them are the most ancient European tower clocks. They still go, despite the fact that they were constructed in the 15th century.
10. Belovezhskaya Pushcha
When deciding what to visit in Belarus, one should not forget about Belovezhskaya Pushcha. This is a conservation site, which in 1992 was included in the UNESCO World Heritage. The natural complex is located in the Brest and Grodno regions. There are extremely many species of animals, and many of them are in the Red Book of Belarus. It is believed that the Belarusian bison is the owner of the Bialowieza Forest.
Tourists from all over the world come to see bison. Unique flora and fauna are maintained here in pristine freshness and strength. The ecological situation in the reserve is impeccable. The national park is serviced by specialists whose main task is to maintain at the proper level both rich vegetation and wildlife.
The Museum of Nature is one of the iconic objects of the Bialowieza Forest, where you can find out literally about every blade of grass that grows here. In addition, in the halls of the Museum there are realistic stuffed animals of all animals inhabiting the reserve.
In the immediate vicinity of the Museum are animal enclosures. Some of them lived here initially, and some species were introduced and, over time, underwent acclimatization. In addition, it is in Belovezhskaya Pushcha that the estate of the Belarusian Grandfather Frost is located. All the children of Belarus dream of visiting here, and this can be done year-round.
Official website: https://npbp.by/
Sights of Belarus: what else to visit while in Belarus
In fact, there are much more places that can interest travelers, therefore, if popular excursions in Belarus do not suit you, there is always the opportunity to find an alternative. The main thing is not to forget that the time spent in the country is not unlimited, so you should choose those attractions whose descriptions impressed you the most.
11. Lake Svityaz (Valevka, Grodno region)
Lake Svityaz is rightfully considered one of the sights of Belarus . It is located on the Novogrudok Upland and has amazingly beautiful panoramic views. The crystal clear water of the lake is surrounded by green velvet on the sloping shores. For those who love outdoor activities, a trip around the lake will be truly fascinating.
Only here you can see the centuries-old oaks giants. And only here you can see the sandy bottom through the depths of many meters, the water is so clear. The lakes are unique: it has a lot of alkaline compounds, so the water is endowed with special softness.
Of course, such a beautiful place should be surrounded by many legends. One of them tells about the mass deaths of citizens in protest against enslavement. The townspeople decided to die all together so as not to get to the conquerors. The city, according to legend, fell into the abyss.
However, soon the souls of the dead citizens were revived by flowers, which rapidly grew along the shores of the lake. Locals believe that in clear weather in the middle of the lake you can see the cobbled pavement of the city, which was once at this place.
12. The Palace of the Rumyantsev-Paskevichs (Gomel)
The palace of Field Marshal Rumyantsev was built in the 19th century. The best Russian architects of that time worked on the project: Blank, Moscepanov, Alekseev. The main advantage of the palace is its magnificent panoramic views that open from its magnificent terraces. The fact is that the palace is located on a beautiful hill on the banks of the local river Sozh.
Being the property of the Field Marshal, the palace was an ordinary residential building, which was distinguished by pretentiousness in decoration and special luxury. In addition, the palace was surrounded by a park ensemble, where rare plants are collected in amazing compositions.
Unfortunately, the palace was looted during the war. However, the individual units stored here returned later. Currently, the palace complex is a modern museum. It contains many early printed books belonging to the Paskevich family.
In addition, the museum’s archives contain many rare archaeological finds and coin collections. When asked what sights in Belarus can be visited, local residents immediately call the Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace.
Official website: http://www.palacegomel.by/
13. Lida Castle (Lida)
Lida Castle complements the sights of Belarus with interesting history and special parameters. The castle was built in 1323 by order of Prince Gediminas. This is a common fortification of the time. Its functional purpose was originally to provide owners with protection from enemies.
In the process of construction work, rubble stone and brick were used. The castle has the shape of a quadrangle disproportionately elongated in one direction. Two corner towers made it possible to survey the surroundings. A two-meter ditch served as another way to protect against the crusaders.
In the 18th century, the fortification was strengthened, an artificial lake was broken right in front of it. On the territory of the castle is an Orthodox church and many social facilities. There are living quarters in the castle, they are located on the upper levels of two corner towers. The history of the castle has many attacks. At different times, Crimean Tatars, crusaders, and Swedes besieged him.
The castle was damaged in 1891, when Lida was almost completely destroyed by a fire. The city authorities began to sell castle buildings in order to somehow support the residents. However, later the castle was partially restored.
14. Narochansky National Park (Naroch)
Sights of Belarus related to eco-tourism include the resort village of Naroch. All conditions are provided here for lovers of horse riding, fishing and hunting. Lake Naroch attracts with beautiful landscapes with impeccable ecology. Rest here promises real pleasure to those who appreciate the natural beauty of nature.
Near the lake there are many historical monuments. For example, tourists are interested in the sites of ancient people. Nearby there is also the equally beautiful Miastro Lake, famous for the fact that in its center there is a 11th century fortification. On the shore of Lake Miastro stands the Church of the Most Holy Virgin Mary.
The blessed Belarusian nature is interesting for those who love outdoor activities and appreciate the pristine freshness of dense forests and clear lakes. The tourist routes passing through the Belarusian Lake District are attractive for tourists because they are accompanied by organized excursions. Professional guides will talk about the features of the Narochansky National Park and the diversity of historical monuments in this area.
15. The historical complex "Stalin Line" (Loshany, Minsk region)
What to visit in Belarus? First of all, the “Stalin Line” is an open-air museum. The complex is built on the basis of restored fortifications. Its grand opening took place in 2005, it was dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the Victory. The initiative to create a historical and cultural complex was approved by Alexander Lukashenko.
With maximum realism, the authors of the idea managed to recreate the trenches, machine-gun pillboxes, command and observation post. Engineering equipment was recreated according to real pre-war drawings. In the exposition you can see trenches, trenches, anti-tank ditches. There are also dugouts for soldiers, wire holders, metal or wood.
In addition, the open-air museum presents military equipment during the Patriotic War, as well as one of the monuments to Joseph Stalin. History shows that not a single fortification structure played its role to the end. Nevertheless, they performed some kind of strengthening function. The Stalin Line is the unfading memory of Belarusians about the victims of the war. This is one of the most visited complexes in the republic.
Near Belarus is a small but very beautiful country - Lithuania. When traveling in Belarus, think about visiting this country. Read about the sights of Lithuania and be inspired to continue your journey through Eastern Europe!
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