The main sights of Belarus in English. Sights of Belarus

The Republic of Belarus is located in the center of Europe. It borders on Latvia, Lithuania, the Ukraine, Russia and Poland. Its territory is much larger than such countries as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Greece and a number of others. Its present population is about 12 million people. Belarus is a land of vast plains and picturesque hills, thick forests and green meadows, deep blue lakes and flowing rivers. Forests cover 2/5 of Belarus, they are scattered all over the country. There are a lot of rivers and lakes in our country. The Dnieper, Pripyat, Beresins, Sozh, Zapadnaya Dvina, Neman are the biggest rivers with more then 500 kilometers in length. The largest lake in Belarus is Lake Naroch which stretches 13 kilometers from West to East. It is a very popular recreation area in our country. Belarus has a moderately continental climate due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean with a warm winter and warm summer.

To most of the world, Belarus is thought of as a relatively new country in Central Europe. For Belorussians, it "s an ancient land. The history of Belarus goes back to ancient times beginning with the Polotsk Principality in the 10th century.

From the 13th century until the 16th centuiy the territory of present -day Belarus was the core of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in which Belarussian was the official language. It was one of the largest, most powerful and flourishing states, in Eastern Europe. The 16th century is considered to be the Golden Age of Belarussian history. This period was marked by prolific growth and foundation of many new cities and towns. There was significant progress in the development of culture and economy of the Belarusian people. As Belarus is located in the center of Europe many wars took place on its territory.

One of the worst wars was in 1812 when French emperor Napoleon attacked Russia and as a result, Belarussian lands became a major battlefield arena. A great number of Belarussians took part in this war against Napoleon.

In the 20th century alone Belarus survived three revolutions and three bloody wars. The Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 was one of the most heroic and tragic periods in the history of the century. For three years the territory of Belarus was occupied by the Nazis.

The country lost more than 3 million people (every third citizen fell in the fight against fascism), many towns and villages were ruined. Belarus lost more then half of its national wealth.

Today Belarus is a developed industrial state. Industry makes up 70% of the Gross National Product. The main industries are engineering, chemical industry, wood-working industry, light and food industries. The major industrial centers in Belarus are Minsk, Gomel, Vitebsk, Mogilev, Soligorsk, Zhodino, Brest and others. Belarussian goods are exported to many countries and are known all over the world. Belarussian agriculture specializes in milk and meat production, flax, vegetables (especially potatoes) and fruit (especially apples). The Republic of Belarus has a well-developed science and educational system.

The Academy of Sciences founded in 1929 is one of the largest centers of science in our country. Its research-institutes work on various important problems in such fields as mathematics, optics, genetics, biology, etc. The demand for higher education remains high. State institutions are the centers of both education and scientific research. Nowadays in Belarus there are 43 universities, academies and institutes which provide training in various fields of science and humanities.

At present Belarus actively participates in an effective international partnership with the governments of different states and international organizations. As a co-founder of the United Nations, Belarus cooperates with various institutions and organizations of the United Nations, World Bank, World Health Organization, International Labor Organization, UNESCO, the European Union, etc. Belarus has a friendly working relationship with such countries as Germany, Denmark, France, Canada, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, Great Britain, The USA and many others.

Get ready to your next trip: take a car, train or bicycle and go explore Belarus. Together with guide to Belarus Vetliva we made up a list of the main reasons to ride all over the country: from springs with healing water and ecological routes to impressive objects of military tourism, chamber museums and manors, that haven’t lost their greatness.

BREST REGION

1. Kosava Castle

Ivatsevichy district, Kosava

2. The Palace Complex of the Sapegas in Ruzhany

Pruzhany district, Ruzhany

Travel guides call the castle ruins ‘belarusian Versailles’, but it’s not spectacular views or glamourous interios that you should come here for (there is not so much of them left), but strong energy of the place. Just imagine: in the beginning of the 17th century there was founded a castle and the chancellor of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania Lew Sapega took part in it. So as to make life there not only comfortable, but also secure, three massive defensive towers were added to the complex. Important state issues were discussed in here, top managers of those times used to organize balls, also the Sapegas archive and the state treasury were kept in the castle. After the uprising of 1831 was defeated, the Sapegas left the residence and the castle turned into a textile factory. During the WWI the ensemble was set to fire, but after the WWII the idea of restoration was forgotten completely.

3. Brest Hero-Fortress

Brest

It is a massive defensive construction and an open-air museum of Soviet heroic monumental art. The fortress was built in the 19th century and its histiry is pretty impressive. In 1596 Union of Brest was announced here, much later there was signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovs k that ended the participacion of the Soviet Russia in the WWI. But the fortress became really famous after the heroic events of the WWII.

4. Olmanskiye Moors

Stolin district

It´s the only naturally preserved complex of the raised, transitional and lowland moors, which occupies 75% of the territory of Stolin district. That's the dream of any ecologist: 687 spieces of plants, 151 species of birds, and 26 species of mammals live there. It’s interesting that in the 60s there was an aviation range, that is why there are still unexploded bombs and shells in the moors.

An ecological route of almost 2 km is of a special interest. It goes along the Vyalikaye Zasominaye lake, which is the natural border with the Ukraine. Another route leads to 40 m high tower, which gives an excellent opportunity to look around the territory and biodiversity. Ask locals where More Gerodota (Gerodot’s Sea) is - it’s Vyalikae and Malaye Zasominaye and 23 lakes more.

Foreigners will have to pay €114 in advance for a visit. More information about the.

How to get? The classics: a bus or minibus from Minsk to Stolin.

5. Belovezhskaya Pushcha Nathional park

It’s the largest and the oldest forest in Europe protected by UNESCO that Belarus is really proud of. Here the agreement that put an end to the Soviet Union was signed. It’s right here where belarusian Ded Moroz lives (his residence is open even in summer, he just wears lighter outfit then). Here you can breathe in relict air, ride a bike, feed a bison and go see Kamyanetz Tower , which is already more than 700 years old.

How to get? We recommend going to Brest by train, and then a bus to Kamyanetz. There are also direct minibuses available for the most impacient travelers.

6Jesus Collegium

Pinsk, 1, Leninskaya vulica

Pinsk is the second after Hrodna belarusian town with the most landmarks preserved. The building of collegium deserves a special attention. Talented students were accepted there regardless of their families' income. If you walk around the building, you’ll notice that it looks so much different: like a fortress from the river and like an open book from the backyard. Now it is a nice museum of belarusian Polesie where you can see stuffed animals or have a sit on a wooden bicycle. Then along Lenina Street there is the Franciscan monastery with the Madonna of Pinsk and cool magnets, Palace of Butrimovich, House of Orda and the University of Polesie campus. The river front in town is 2.5 km long, enough space for walks with beautiful view.

How to get? You can go by minibus : the ride takes 3 hours and costs € 3. Two days a week there is also a train; it leaves from Minsk at 17.37 and comes to Pinsk at 22.55.

7. Polesie

Brest region

The largest European moor territory that occupies almost 30% of the map of Belarus. Terra incognita has the size of a small country; there are isolated villages and local inhabitants who even speak their own language. To feel all the beauty of living in Polesie you should wait for the spring spate of river Pripyat. A perfect option is to rent a boat and swim along the flooded belarusian countryside from Turau to Pinsk.

How to get? You already know how to get to Pinsk.

HRODNA REGION

8. Mir Castle

Mir, 2, Chyrvonaarmeiskaya vulica

9. Kalozha Church

Hrodna, 6, Kalozha vulica

Kalozha Church, or the Church of Sts. Boris and Gleb, appeared on the pagan temple at the Castle Hill in Hrodna already in the 11th century. It's an Ancient Rus period building, although it was reconstructed. The church is not plastered, so you can look at all engineering solutions of those times. The church stands on an abrupt bank of the river Neman.

How to get? By train (from any belarusian town), bus or minibus (€ 7).

10. Trinity Church in Gervyaty village

Astravets district, Gervyaty village

It’s the highest cathedral in Belarus - 61 m (24 floor building!) and the only one created according to the all neogothic canons. It was erected at the site of a wooden church of the 16th century. A brick works was organized for construction purposes only, and also eggs were collected from all over the neighborhood (they were added to the grout to make it stronger. The slate was brought from Germany. Here you can learn how arc-boutant looks: it’s
a semi-arch that distributes load from the main wall and stands separately (remember Notre-Dame de Paris), which is not typical for Belarus. Make sure to attend the service, it's in Belarusian, Polish and Lithuanian, and go for a walk in the park, which is probably even cooler than the church.

How to get? The best option is to drive, of course. If there’ no such opportunity, go to Astravets and then to Gervyaty (through Varnyany).

Hrodna district, Nemnava

A navigable canal was built in the 19th century to connect the Black and Baltic seas. There are just two constructions in the world that were built so long ago and so elaborately and that are preserved in so good condition: in Great Britain and in Sweden. The length of the canal is 101 km, 22 km goes through the belarusian border territory with the lightened visa control. Locks, opening bridges, columns - everything is so well-coordinated and thoroughly thought through. You can get on a boat called Neman, walk along on foot, visit the museum, go kayaking, see a survived manor in Svyatsk built in the 18th century according to the project by Italian architect Giuseppe de Sacco.

How to get? Start from Minsk by car (Valozhin - Lida - Skidzel direction, 327 km). From Hrodna you can take a bus (Hrodna - Garachky, Hrodna - Nemnava, Hrodna - Kalety, the stops Augustousky Canal or Sonichy) or drive.

12. Slonim Synagogue

Slonim, 1, Savietskaya vulica

The baroque synagogue of 1642 is one of the most ancient in the country. The half-ruined building has remained gorgeous inner finery. The synagogue was gravely damaged during the Napoleonic War, but was reconstructed quickly due to the Jewish community that was one of the most powerful in the country. There were 21 synagogues, and 70% of the population was Jewish in the end of the 20th century. In 2000 the building was brought back to the faithful but still it wasn´t reconstructed. Be sure to look closely at the Torah ark , fretwork, and painting, which were preserved greatly.

How to get? Catch a minibus. It takes 2.5 hours.

13. Church of Nativity of Virgin Mary, Muravanka

Schuchin district, Muravanka village

The 600 year old church was set to be a place for worship service as well as a defensive building. The church looks like a real castle with two-meter walls in thickness, loopholes, and towers. The church in Muravanka was experienced many wars and was damaged badly during Russian-Polish war. In 1882 there was a great reconstruction and a bell tower was built. It was a good mixture of Gothic and Renaissance, stones, bricks, and rose-window. The bricks were special called “royal lily”, a symbol of Virgin Mary’s purity. Historic facts and legends say there were a lot of underground passages but now nobody can tell where they began and ended.

How to get? Catch the bus Minsk - Schuchin . The church itself is situated at a distance of 3 km from Mazhejkava village.

14. The castle in Navahrudak

Navahrudak

Novogrudok is an ancient Belarusian town that was the first capital of Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The main sightseeing in the town is a ruined castle of 12th century. It was ruined by the Swedes almost to the current state in six centuries after the first mention. Only two walls have remained of the whole building. A charming view opens up on the Castle hill, the best place for a picnic. The memorial house of Adam Mitskevich who was born in Navahrudak is worth visiting. Be sure to visit Transfiguration Church and 500- year old Church of Saint Boris and Gleb.

How to get? Catch a minibus or a bus from Minsk (€2). A train is not the best option

15. Church of Saint Michael

Zelva district, Synkavichy village

It's the biggest defensive church in Belarus. A great impenetrable church was constructed in the 16th century. It looks like a real small castle with towers, loopholes in an inaccessible height, and thick walls. Also pay attention to the gates remained since 1880. Within the walking distance of the church there is a manor house of the 19 th that later was converted to alcohol factory. By the way, there is a legend about the name of the village. The church was built by father and son. One day son fell down from the staging and died. Father desperately cried to him, “Son, son!” (Belarusian: Synku, Synku!). That's how the name of the village appeared. It’s possible to see a ledge above the entrance similar to casket door that was made by father in memory of his son.

How to get? It's easy to go by bus from Minsk to Zelva, than you should take a car.

16. Chetvertinsky Manor

Zeludok village, Schuchyn district

Chetvertinsky Manor is one of the most cinematic places of the country. This explains why the first Belarusian horror “Massacre” was made there. Some cinematic decorations still remained such as laminated-veneer lumber, painted signs of fire on the frontage. Soviet epoch left a movie club with projection cabin and stars images.

From the beginning, the castle was set to be a place for receiving guests of the Chetvertinsky family. The modernistic manor projected by a famous Italian architecture Marconi was built in the middle of a big park in 1908. The building has maintained an authentic staircase, tile, and some wallpaper.

How to get? Find more information.

17. Kreva Castle

Kreva

Kreva Castle is the most picturesque ruins in our guide. The castle was built in the 14th century. Those walls witnessed quite many things during the centuries. Duke Kestutis, father of Vytautas, was killed there in 1382. The union between Grand Duchy of Lithuania and Kingdom of Poland was signed there in 1385. Kreva Castle negated the attack of the Tatars and the Muscovites in the 16th century. However, the castle wasn´t considered as a good fortification and was abandoned in the 19th century. The ruins were preserved in 1929 and weren´t changed till nowadays.

Listen to wind blowing among the walls. Enter to a beautiful Church of Alexander Nevskiy and to Church of the Transfiguration and try to find an ancient pagan temple Although , Kreva is considered to be a village now, there are still witnesses of the previous great times.

How to get? Get on a bus or train Minsk - Smorgon, than catch a green regional bus MAZ with curtains.

MINSK REGION

18. Nesvizh Castle

Nesvizh became a family seat of the Radzivils, the main family in the history of Grand Duchy of Lithuania. For example, the King of Poland was a frequent guest and family members held high position in the country. The series of palaces and gardens in Nesvizh occupy 90 hectares. You can find early renaissance, baroque, neoclassicism, and modernism in Nesvizh Castle . Ask to tell you the story about Bona Sforza´s revenge and golden full-length apostles.

How to get? You can go from Minsk to Nesvizh by Brest route. If you decide to go by bus, here you can find a schedule .

19. The City of the Sun in Minsk

Minsk

Minsk is a victim of imperialistic ambitions of soviet government. You can feel it walking down Independent Avenue (Praspiekt Niezaliezhnasci) , a 15-km straight asphalt shaft that halves the city. Arthur Klinau, a Belarusian writer, called Minsk the City of the Sun for its Stalinist architecture and described the city as a main artery road of Big Communist Dream . Railway station forecourt with “gates”, Lenin square, Marksa, Kirava, Svyardlova streets are massive constructions of an ideal communistic Rome according to the Soviets.

How to get? You can find in .

20. Khatyn Memorial Complex

Lahojsk district, Khatyn village/ Mokrad village

It's an example of good advice documentation. Memorial complex was made on the place of the village burnt by the Nazis during the Second World War. All people were brought to a storehouse and burnt. The same happened with people of 628 villages. Before the trip you can watch the movie Come and see made by Elem Klimov in 1985. Find information about tickets and .

How to get? If you go by car, take the M3 route (59 km). There is no public transport to get on. If you hitch a lift, you'll have to walk 5 km from the route.

21. Naliboki Reserve

Valozhyn district

Naliboki Reserve is the biggest forestland in Belarus, three times larger than Malta! Plant life is very diverse, a quarter is medicinal plants, a plenty of them are in Red List. The same is with wild animals; for example, there are 29 rare species of birds. The reserve is surrounded with three big rivers Neman, Berezina, and Usa. That's why the landscape is very picturesque and not very accessible as Svaneti in Georgia. For example, 20,000 people hidden there during the Second World War. Be brave to make a speed march to age-old forest. Be sure to see Lake Kroman, Lauryshava Monastery built in the 13th century, and the Tyshkeviches’ manor in Vyalae village. Feel free to swim naked, you can let it there.

How to get? The only chance is to go by car that takes you 1 hour.

22. Belarusian State Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Lifestyle

Minsk district, Azyartso village

It’s rural Belarus in miniature, an open-air museum with old-time construction of three parts: Central, Poozerie, and Podneprovie. A church, a parishional school, mills, baths (called ‘banya’), and rural houses can provide you the information for ethnic research. All these spread among picturesque fields, so don't forget to charge your phone. And don't forget to taste ‘krenovuha’ (national drink) in the tavern at entrance.

How to get? All the information you can find.

HOMIEL REGION

23. Homiel Palace and Park Ensemble

Homel

It's better to go to Gomel Palace and Park Ensemble in spring. A huge park becomes green and blossom. The River Sozh is affluent and you can wander around Rumyantsev-Paskevich Residence looking at a grand river. The Palace and Park Ensemble is the biggest historic building remained monolithic. Catherine II, a Russian empress, gifted Gomel to her favorite Count Rumyantsev and he built the castle on the River Sozh. Than the castle went to commander Paskevich who made the whole outbuildings complex: a hunter house, winter garden, and several churches. Landscape park of 24 hectares has been preserved greatly. You can walk there half a day but beforehand you should eat some Gomel chocolate Spartak of 90% cocoa.

How to get? There are 5 trains from Minsk every day. You can also catch a minibus (€6), or drive (300 km).

24. Gerard Manor

Dobrush district, Demianki village

It’s a beautiful manor built in Russian Revival style in compulsory evacuation zone. The construction of the red brick building was funded by Nicolai Gerard, a Russian civil servant and Finland governor general, in the latter half of the 19th century. The manor is situated on the hill crossed with a moat, the bridge decorates the view. The park with rare species of trees has been preserved as a wonderful silence there. If you're looking for a place with no tourists, you should go there. By the way, you can get into the manor legally.

How to get? You can go there without pass on Radunitsa celebration (Day of Rejoicing). If you want to go other day, you have to get a pass in Dobrush. You can go to Dobrush by train Minsk - Homiel and then get on a suburban train or bus.

25. The Museum of Old Belief in Vietka

Vietka, 5, Chyrvonaya Square

In the 17th century Old Believers set their hearts on the town of Vietka. It didn’t bother pathologically tolerant belarusians, that is why Old Beliefs icons, manuscripts and printed books of the 16-19th centuries, textile and household items collections are still preserved in excellent condition. The museum is interactive: e.g., you can learn traditional weaving.

How to get? Go to Homiel, and then take a bus (it's just 22 km).

MAHILIOU REGION

26. Barbujsk Fortress

Babrujsk

This massive fortification was constructed during preparation to the war against Napoleon. To build it almost the whole town, which there had been before, was destroyed. Anyhow the fortress survived the long french siege, and turned into a jail after the war. They say there's an egg-shaped ward in one of the forts where prisoners lost their minds after a couple of weeks of spent there. Not for nothing a famous Russian thinker Herzen wrote that ‘Let it be Siberia, let it be anything but this horrible prison on the river Berezina’. Now it's fun just to climb the remains of the fortress, or visit the abandoned guardroom , which had been a church before. It may seem like aliens landed by the side of the fortress. Actually, it's the Babrujk ice skating arena for 7 thousand people.

How to get? It’s just a half hour form Minsk by a fancy Stadler train (or two hours by a regular one) and you already walk around racy Babrujsk. Another option is to go by bus or a private minibus.

27. Tolstoy Family Manor

Bykhau district, Hrudzinauka village

One of the most beautiful and mysterious places in Belarus is the Tolstoy family manor. Although Leo Tolstoy never got there, it is still worth visiting. There is a two floor manor with cupolas, columns, front stairs and an open terrace with a view on the park. You can wander around 10 hectares park, find a 100 years old Siberian pine, and enter the palace. Recently there was a school and a camp for sick children, that is why you can still see painted green walls and a soviet cloakroom - a weird contrast with the architecture and amazing age-old oaks.

How to get? The easiest way is surely by car (put 53.6343, 30.4775 into your navigator).

28. Bujnichskaya Pole

Buinichy, Mahiliou district

Mahiliou defensive front passed right through Bujnichskaye Pole in 1941. Despite numerical and technical superiority of Germans, Mahiliou people held the line for 23 days. Open air museum and a huge display of military hardware is perfectly looked after, and the chapel is cleaned every day with such care that it seems like each worker lost a relative here. On the other side of the street there's a zoo where you can see a bison.

How to get? A piece of cake: there's a city bus from Mahiluou.

29. Halubaya Krynitsa (Blue Spring)

Slauharad

Unknown but really cool belarusian sight is the biggest spring in Eastern Europe. Take a six liter bottle and go get some healing water. You can even take three dips, but be ready to clatter with the teeth all day long, because the water is freezing even in July. The water is emerald, it's very picturesque, but there are always lots of those wishing to receive communion. On orthodox holidays it's always crowded, so we strongly recommend checking the calendar in advance. By the way, the legend reads that in ancient times the water column was of a human height.

How to get? It's 8 km to the south-east from Slauharad.

30 Lenin Street, Mahiliou

Mahiliou

Once you walk down pedestrian precinct you fall in love with Mahiliou. This street contains two castles of the 17th and the 18th century, museum of Belarusian artist Byalynitsky-Birulya Astrologer square , cinema, theater, and Saint Stanislav Church where the main Belarusian church music festival is held. You can also find there the school where Otto Schmidt, mathematician and Arctic explorer, and Nikolai Sudzilovsky , first Hawaii president, studied (however it’s a shopping mall now). There is a reconstructed town hall on the other end of the street. You should go!

How to get? It takes 2.5 hours to go to Mahiliou from Minsk by minibus and around 4 hours by train.

VITIEBSK REGION

31. Braslau Lakes

Braslau is a huge national park that contains 60 lakes, big forestland and swamps, and hundreds of animal and plant species. Take a bike and make a trip around villages and churches to feel like a Discovery character. It's a good idea to go camping; a national park has 47 encampments for recreation without environmental damage. If you want fishing, you can find free or paid place here; just take a fishing rod, turn out a phone, and enjoy the nature.

How to get? Don't worry and take a minibus , it takes only 3 hours.

32. Saint Sophia Cathedral

Polatsk, 1, Zamkavaya vulica

It’s the first brick cathedral in Belarus built in the 11th century by Usyaslau the Sorcerer , the main character of all Belarusian legends. It was as important as Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kiev and Novgorod that time. However, the cathedral was reconstructed three times. The cathedral was being destroyed by fire and invaders before it was completely destroyed during the Great Northern War by Russian troops in the 18th century.

Vitiebsk, 11, Pakrouskaya vulica

34.St. John Baptist Church

Pastavy district, Kamai village, 1

It's the only church in Belarus that has never been closed for 400 years of its existence. The building dates back to the 17th century and is an example of Belarusian-style defensive Gothic, with massive walls and loopholes. The paintings inside belong to the brush of Alfred Romer , an aristocrat who enjoyed portraying the peasants and painting churches.

How to get? You can get to Pastavy by bus, but then you"d have to try hitch-hike if you don"t have a car.

VETLIVA is a guide to Belarus where all the sights, tours, health camps and farmhouse guest rooms are collected. You can book a tour right on the website. Sincerely recommended!

Text by Nasta Eroha, translated by Alexandra Murashko & Anastasia Ryzhankova

Photo by palasatka, Rodion Kovenkin, YAUHEN BUZUK, firairo, bender, way.by, sportintour.by

Since I am now on a short visit to Belarus, I decided to throw my top list of architectural sights of this country, and I was only in a few of these places, the rest I have long been in mind. The distribution of seats is random.

1. Brest Fortress- one of the symbols not only of Brest, but of the whole of Belarus, largely due to the tragic and at the same time heroic times of the Second World War. The proposal to build defensive fortifications at the confluence of the Bug and Mukhavets rivers appeared at the end of the 18th century. The course of the Patriotic War in 1812 confirmed its expediency and in 1833 the project of the fortress was approved, developed by military engineers Opperman, Maletsky and Feldman. The fortress was solemnly founded on June 1, 1836, and six years later it became operational.

2. Mir Castle- an outstanding work of Belarusian architecture of the 16th century. The era of feudalism found a visible reflection in its architecture: behind powerful walls and towers that could protect the owner from the enemy, there was a rich palace - the residence of the magnate. Made of stone and brick, surrounded by earthen ramparts with bastions and moats with water, the castle, with its monumentality and inaccessibility, personified the strength and unlimited power of the feudal lord.

3. Palace and Park Ensemble of the Radziwills in Nesvizh- on the site of a wooden fortification of the middle of the XVI century. a stone castle was laid. Its construction at the first stage was led by the Italian architect Jan Maria Bernardoni, the author of a number of buildings in the city.

4.Kamenets tower- a mute witness to many pages of history and bloody battles of past centuries. In the XIV century. it was repeatedly besieged by the crusader knights, stormed by the troops of the Polish prince of Mazovia, the Lithuanian princes Vitovt and Jagiello. In the 17th century in Kamenets near the walls of the fortress there were fierce battles between the armies of the Commonwealth and the Muscovite state.

5. Gediminas Castle in Lida- the fortress was built in 1323-1325. Prince Gediminas and for several centuries remained a powerful citadel in the western lands of Belarus. Numerous sieges that the fortress withstood led to damage to the walls, the destruction of the towers and the complete destruction of its buildings inside.

6. Palace complex Sapieha in Ruzhany- an architectural monument of the 17th century, the ruins of the former residence of the magnate family Sapieha in the village of Ruzhany. During the First World War (1914), due to an oversight of factory laundresses, a severe fire broke out in the palace, part of the walls collapsed. During the interwar period, attempts were made to restore, but due to the destruction of the Great Patriotic War, the palace finally turned into ruins. In the summer of 2008, excavations and restoration began on the territory of the palace complex.

7. I decided to unite Polotsk with its two ancient cathedrals - Spaso-Preobrazhensky and Sofia. The Cathedral of the Spaso-Evfrosinevsky Monastery, built between 1128 and 1156 by the architect John, is a six-pillar one-domed building. It reflected the features of the general direction of ancient Russian architecture of the XII century. - small size, simplicity of plan, monumentality of appearance, achieved by meager means, and fresco painting of the interior.

Built on the foundation of the 11th-century Sophia Cathedral (laid between 1044 and 1066), the foundation stones are available for inspection in the lower (basement) part of the cathedral. From the cathedral of the 11th century, an apse consisting of three parts, about 9 m high (on the right side of the cathedral, if you stand facing the entrance to the temple), the remains of walls, a crypt, have been preserved. This apse is the oldest stone building on the territory of Belarus.

8. Boris and Gleb Church in Grodno- a remarkable example of ancient Russian architecture of the second half of the XII century. The composition of the building, its design and decoration are related to the Lower Church in Grodno (mid-12th century). Both monuments confirm the existence of an independent architectural and art school in the Grodno region, where local building materials, ceramics and elements of folk applied art were widely used.

9. Palace of the Puslovskys in Kossovo- was founded in 1838 on the western outskirts of the settlement as a suburban estate ensemble with a large park. The architects F. Yaschold and V. Marconi took part in the construction of the palace and the layout of the park. The palace, having a well-developed composition characteristic of classicism, is endowed with fortress towers and turrets in the spirit of Gothic antiquity, represents a romantic trend in the architecture of the middle of the 19th century.

10. Jesuit monastery in Grodno- a church and a monastery - an outstanding architectural monument of Belarus of the 17th-18th centuries. In the past, the church and monastery were the richest in the Commonwealth. They occupied a whole block in the central part of the city. The development complex included a collegium, a pharmacy, a library and a number of utility rooms.

I will add to these beauties my impressions of the Belarusian cities that I visited.

Belarus borders Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Lithuania and Latvia. Its population is almost 10 million. It is not a tiny country, Hungary, Belgium, Netherlands and Switzerland could altogether fit on the territory of Belarus. For more information, check 50 interesting . One of the main places to visit in Belarus is Minsk, while there is much more to see in the country. So, I will tell you about the best attractions and places to visit in Belarus.

Bialowieza Forest National Park

Did you know that the largest and oldest forest in Europe is located in Belarus, on the border with Poland? It is called Bialowieza Forest National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a great place to visit in Belarus with kids.

If you visit Brest (which I strongly recommend you doing), you can easily get to the Bialowieza Forest situated less than 100 km away from it. There, you can rent and ride a bicycle through one of the numerous bike paths in the national park, go to one of the nature and local lore museums, visit the Father Frost (Belarusian Santa Claus), or simply walk along the forest alleys enjoying the calmness and fresh air. You can even stay in a house in the center of Bialowieza Forest.

To find out more about activities and things to do in the Bialowieza Forest check this article .

Braslav Lake Group

Braslav lakes is one of the favorite places to visit in Belarus among locals. These lakes are also one of the Belarusian national parks.

The lake group includes dozens of small and big lakes, some have a very well-developed infrastructure around them, but some are just hidden in the forest.

Medieval Mir Castle

Another popular place to visit in Belarus in the Mir Castle Complex. It is located in Minsk region and is easily reachable by car or bus.

The castle used to belong the famous rich family of Radzivills and is surrounded by numerous legends that you can find out during your visit. The architecture of it is a combination of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. This blend makes the Mir castle special.

In summer, numerous knight and music festivals are held on the territory of the castle gathering thousands of people.

Brest Hero Fortress

Brest fortress, which is located close to the city of Brest, on the south-west of Belarus, is famous for its heroic defense against German invaders during the World War II. As you might know, the whole of Poland was conquered in just 2 weeks, while the Brest fortress alone could restrain constant attacks of Germans for 1 month.

The fortress is now part of a big complex of monuments and museums. You can visit the Museum of War, the 5th Fort Museum, as well as Defense Museum. Being in this place lets you feel the atmosphere of those difficult times. Entering the fortress gates, you will hear the original announcement about the Fascist invasion. On the walls of the fortress, you can still find the famous inscriptions of the soldiers. The most famous of them is “I'm dying, but I'm not giving up. Goodbye, Motherland!”

Minsk, capital of Belarus

Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is the most visited place in the country. It is a big city with almost 2 million people, but you don't feel the business, dirt and noise of a big city. Minsk is a great place to visit with kids. The city is very convenient for tourists, as most of the main attractions of Minsk are located close to each other, in the city center. They include the Grand Theater of Opera and Ballet, cozy houses and cafes of the Trinity suburb, Upper town with the town hall, the Independence avenue with its chic boutiques and many other places. Just walk around the city center and you will easily find them all.

One attraction worth visiting that is situated not in the center of Minsk, is the Belarusian National Library having a form of a diamond, one of the largest libraries in the world, the roof of which is also a great panoramic point.

Visit Zabrodie Village that Still Remembers the First World War

Other places to visit in Belarus

Belarus has lots of great places to visit. This list could include other beautiful castles, like Nesvizh and Kossovo castles, Pripyat and Berezinsky National Parks, other old cities like Slonim, Novogrudok, Gomel and Vitebsk, numerous museums and places to discover the Belarusian culture. Just come here and find the best places to visit in Belarus on your own!

Author bio:

Roman from Visit-Belarus.com writes about interesting facts, useful information, attractions and places to visit in Belarus. He is also the creator of the RomanRoams.com travel blog which talks about adventurous travel and traveling on a budget.

We'd love if you'd comment and share this post.

If you found this article interesting and enjoyed reading it, join our community and subscribe to Voyager's blog to receive great content delivered right to your inbox.

Belarus cannot be called the most popular country among tourists. However, this attitude can be considered unjustified. Of course, there is no sea here, but there are a lot of beautiful corners, historical places and comfortable sanatoriums, hotels and boarding houses for travelers.

The nature of Belarus is beautiful. The cleanest lakes and rivers, dense forests, green fields - the country is simply created for green tourism and is actively developing this particular direction. Very affordable prices can be attributed to the poles of a trip to Belarus. Compared to Russia, there are very inexpensive products here. You can rent a cottage on the shore of a quiet lake at very modest prices. In addition, the Belarusians themselves are hospitable people who are always glad to see guests.

What you should definitely do in Belarus is to go hunting or fishing, see one of the ancient castles, visit the famous Brest and wander along the modern streets of the center of Minsk. We must not forget about the local cuisine - it is worth trying traditional potato pancakes and the local Zubrovka.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in Belarus?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.

This is the largest relic, truly primeval forest in Europe. Agree, it is very interesting to see what Europe was like before it was thoroughly settled and remade by people. Majestic, dense, with centuries-old trees - Bialowieza Forest always arouses the interest of tourists. Only here you can see bison, oaks that are over 600 years old. Now it is a biosphere reserve, it is better to go here as part of an organized excursion.

Borisoglebskaya Church, located in the city of Grodno, is an old building and surprises precisely with its antiquity. Built back in the 12th century, during the time of Ancient Russia, they retained the power of the walls, majesty and a special unique flavor. Scientists call the Church of Borisoglebsk a separate phenomenon in architecture that has no analogues on the planet.

The main square of the Belarusian capital, its architectural ensemble began to take shape back in the 1930s. The main place in the center of the square is occupied by the Victory Monument in the form of an obelisk; there is also a cozy square and residential buildings. In addition, capsules with earth from various hero cities were laid on Victory Square. There is also a hall in memory of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War, so the square fully justifies its name.

Naroch National Park is called the most convenient platform for tourists who want to get acquainted with the beauties of Belarus. Here, travelers have 16 tourist routes, comfortable rooms, comfortable cottages, and budget tourists can stay at the campsite. Blue lakes, the Forest Museum, an apothecary garden, rare herbs and animals - there is something to see and do in the Naroch National Park. And the nature here is just amazing!

This is a technical museum, which is entirely dedicated to the history of the development of railway transport. Here are still pre-war specimens of steam locomotives, perfectly preserved and carefully restored. In addition, in the railway museum of the city of Brest you can see unique steam taps and a whole collection of passenger cars of various classes.

This is a whole complex of six museum objects. The Gomel palace and park ensemble is recognized as the oldest and most authoritative in Belarus, so tourists cannot miss it. The ensemble includes the palace of the Rumyantsevs and the Paskevichs, the Winter Garden, an old park, which is recognized as a monument of landscape gardening art, the Khaletskys' estate and a number of other interesting objects.

This museum is the largest collection of works of art and works of Belarusian artists and craftsmen from other countries in the country. The collection of the museum is impressive - in order to expose all the wealth of the collection, its area had to be expanded several times and branches opened. The museum has restoration workshops, and the collections are constantly replenished.

This is, of course, the saddest attraction in Belarus. It is dedicated to 149 residents of the village of Khatyn, who, in 1943, were burned and shot by the Nazis. Khatyn has become a symbol of the victims of the Great Patriotic War among the civilian population. The memorial impresses with its poignant sculpture “The Unbowed Man”, evidence of Nazi crimes and the general atmosphere.

The complex is dedicated to traditional crafts and folk technologies. It has been operating for more than 17 years and is a real open-air museum. People go to Dudutki to see with their own eyes a real village from the times of Ancient Russia, with a functioning windmill and houses in which things created by ancient masters have been perfectly preserved. In addition, in Dudutki you can see how real homemade cheese is made and visit the zoo.

A real pearl of Belarus, a castle complex founded in 1520. Included in the UNESCO list, today it is a castle museum. Mir Castle has 39 expositions, a pond and picturesque parks. But the most interesting thing is that you can rent a room or hold a festive event in the Mir Castle - there is a hotel and a restaurant serving dishes of ancient cuisine. The castle has a conference room and a souvenir shop with products of local craftsmen.

This is the most famous Catholic church in Belarus, located in Minsk. The church surprises tourists with its grandeur, red brick walls and rich interior decoration. The Church of St. Simeon and St. Helena is relatively young - its construction began in 1905. Travelers can admire the stained-glass windows and bas-reliefs, as well as attend worship services that are held here regularly.

This amazing building is included in the list of the most original buildings on our planet. The National Library of Belarus, the main library of the country, was built in the form of a rhombicuboctahedron. The height of this cube reaches 23 meters, and the weight, excluding the collection of books, is 115 thousand tons. This building, somewhat similar to a diamond, looks especially original in the evening, when the backlight turns on, finally turning it into a gem.

A really large castle, a whole complex, in the courtyard of which there is a real square. The construction of this castle began in the 15th century, then it was rebuilt and perfectly preserved to this day. Today, this residence of the Radziwills has become a museum-reserve where you can get acquainted with the life of an old aristocratic family. In 2012, the Nesvizh Castle was reconstructed and today it receives thousands of tourists - there are queues here on weekends.

Great Patriotic War began for the USSR in Brest. Today, the fortress has turned into a memorial that immortalized the feat of the Soviet soldiers who managed to delay the advance of the fascist invaders. The Brest memorial has become the largest monument of the Second World War in the CIS, a whole complex that includes battlefields, sculptural compositions and the ruins of an old fortress.