belarus. castles, fortresses, towers

Islands of inviolacy and puissance in the ocean of the centuries-long history

www.belarustourism.by

Castles, Fortresses, Towers

Hospitality beyond borders

Islands of Inviolacy and Puissance in the Ocean of the Centuries-Long History

Mir Castle, XXI c., photo: Belarus National Tourism Agency archives

Castles. Fortresses. Towers: Relation of Epochs

Mir Castle, XIX c., picture: Napoleon Orda

The Castle and Park Ensemble in Nesvizh, XIX c., picture: Napoleon Orda

Novogrudok Castle, XIX c., picture: Napoleon Orda

Lida Castle, XIX c., picture: Napoleon Orda

The Castle and Park Ensemble in Nesvizh XXI c., photo: Belarus National Tourism Agency archives

Novogrudok Castle, XXI c., photo: Belarus National Tourism Agency archives

Lida Castle, XXI c., photo: Belarus National Tourism Agency archives

ear travelers!

Unexpected discoveries and revelations of medieval

mysteries, spectacular impressions and plenty of positive emotions

are waiting for tourists going for a trip to ancient castles of

Belarus. For your convenience, we tried to collect under one cover

information about the most interesting monuments of defensive

architecture.

From this publication, one may learn about outstanding Mir

and Nesvizh castles included into the UNESCO World Heritage list,

discover unique Belaya Vezha "guarding" the state borders for already

seven centuries, read the history of Brest Fortress full of tragedy.

In ancient times, Belarus was called "Country of Castles".

Even now, it justifies its "title". Feast your eyes with masterpieces of

talented architects!

The National Tourism Agency of the Republic of Belarus

Location of Places of Interest

Lithuania

Latvia

Ukraine

Poland

Brest region

Vitebsk region

Gomel region

Grodno region Minsk region

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A

B

2 3 4 5 6 7

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

Grodno

Brest

Мinsk

2

3

5

69

10

11

1213

14

15

16

17

18

19

7,8

1

Russia

Gomel region

Mogilev region

7 8 9 10

Gomel

Моgilev

Vitebsk

ORDERING OF PLACES OF INTEREST WITH REFERENCE TO REGIONS

index number of sightseeing

administrative region/ name of sightseeing

page

Brest region

Brest Fortress

Kamenets Tower

Vitebsk region

Kamai Roman Church

Smolyany Castle

Gomel region

Mozyr Castle

Grodno region

Golshany Castle

Grodno Fortress

Grodno castles

House-Fortress in Gaityunishki

Krevo Castle

Lida Castle

Lyubcha Castle

Malomazheikovskaya Church

Mir Castle

Novogrudok Castle

Cathedral-Fortress in Synkovichi

Minsk region

Zaslavl castles

The Castle and Park Ensemble in Nesvizh

Mogilev region

Bobruisk Fortress

Byhov Castle

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5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

location on the map

H1

G1

C4

C8

H7

D4

E2

E2

D3

D4

E3

E4

E3

E4

E3

F3

E5

F4

F7

E8

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2

3

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5

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10

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LEGEND

A numeric character stands for the index number of sightseeing in the publication; a background color shows the reference to a region of Belarus

Gomel

Minsk The capital of the Republic of Belarus

Regional centers

Frame means that this sightseeing is located in the regional center

At the top: a numeric character stands for the index of sightseeing in the publication, the color of the numeric character shows the reference to a region of Belarus; at the bottom: a letter and a numeric character indicate the location at the general map

A footnote stands for an additional tourist attraction or tourist event having the location which differs from the location of the main sightseeing

191

For the sake of construction of Brest Fortress, the government of the Russian Empire went the length of unprecedented step, i.e. the ancient city of Brest was destroyed to the grounds, and the citadel was founded on its place. The city was rebuilt not far from the fortress.

The Fortress turned to be truly powerful. Mighty walls (about 1800 m long), bypass channels and numerous forts, there was no army in the world that could crack such a "nut".

In 1918, the Separate Peace with Germany was signed in Brest, and on June 22, 1941, the citadel was the first one in the USSR to face the attack of German fascist troops.

Almost entire month, in complete isolation, without food, water or ammunition, 4-thousand garrison of the Fortress fought the battle. Ancient walls still keep thousands of scars left by bullets and other ammunition. The invaders failed to take one of the forts by assault. After several fruitless attempts, they stifled the defenders by gas.

In times of peace, Brest Fortress was awarded with the title "Hero Fortress", a memorial complex and a museum were created there. There are weapons, shell fragments, personal possessions and even defenders' letters in the exposition.

Brest Fortress

4 | Castles, Fortresses, Towers

The Cathedral of St Nicholas (formerly known as the Garrison Church of St Nicholas)is located on the territory of Brest Fortress.

The main sculpture composition of the memorial "Hero Brest Fortress".

Brest

Address: Brest region, Brest.Distance from Minsk totals to 350 km

DO NOT MISS:

An event for true connoisseurs of theatre arts, i.e. the international theatre

festival "Belaya Vezha", is held in September in Brest. Stage managers, actors,

musicians and artists from many countries of the world submit their best works

to the audience for approval. It is an interesting fact that both appraised masters

and young talents participate in the festival.

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Crowned with significant scallops, Kamenets Tower (Kamenets Column, Belaya Vezha) amazes with its peaceful power. Constructed in the XIII century, the tower is located at the edge of the old-growth forest – Belovezhskaya Pushcha.

Vezha was constructed during severe times, when the Teutonic Knights and the Tartars rushed towards the Slavic lands. Similar donjon towers protected many medieval cities of Belarus, including Brest, Vitebsk, Grodno, Novogrudok, but only one of them was preserved, i.e. the tower in Kamenets. The height of the fortification totals to 30 m, and the width of the walls reaches 2.5 m. In early Medieval times, the Vezha was surrounded by high embankments and deep ditches. The citizens could find refuge from enemies there and maintain defense for long time even after the city itself had been already conquered.

It is surprising, but the tower built of red brick was always red. It received it's name "Belaya Vezha", which means "White Tower", only in the XIX century, when an opinion that the construction had been whitened in the past spread out.

Today, the affiliate of Brest Local History Museum is located in the Tower, it stores suits of armor, ancient clothes and weapons.

Kamenets Tower

Kamenets Vezha at the edge of Belovezhskaya Pushcha overlooks the city for over seven centuries. The miniature of Kamenets Tower exhibited

in the museum located inside.

Brest

Address: Brest region, Kamenets district, Kamenets.Distance from Minsk totals to 340 km, from Brest - 37 km

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DO NOT MISS:

If you come in Kamenets at the end of June, you can visit the festival

of Medieval culture "Kamenets Vezha". www.kamenec.brest-region.by

WORTH SEENING:

Not far from Kamenets, in Belovezhskaya Pushcha, there is an all-year-

round residence of Belarusian Santa Claus [21]. www.npbp.brestobl.com

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21

The Roman Church of John the Forerunner has never been closed in the course of its 400-year history. The Cathedral-Fortress, the construction of which was accomplished in 1606, was built upon the order of Yan Rudomin Dusyatsk, the hero of the Battle of Hotin against the Turks. Two high towers enabled defenders to sweep the fire over the territory for far away at the same time remaining behind thick walls protected from enemies. During the years of the Northern War, the sacred Church was attacked by fire by the Swedes, but it withstood. To commemorate that event, several Sweden cannon balls were immured into the walls of Kamai Church.

The unique organ (one of the oldest in Belarus) is located in Kamai Church, it was that organ that Bronislaw Rutkowski, a famous musician of the XX century, used to place. Another famous sacred item is the icon "Jesus Christ with an orphan", the last work of Alfred Romer, a famous painter of the XIX century.

Stone cross rising in front of the church represents a great interest as well. Experts believe that it is 500-700 years old, and that it was possibly cut out of the pagan symbol. And, according to local folks, the cross protects the village against misfortune and fires.

Kamai Roman Church


Kamai Church underwent plenty of wars and besiegements in the course of its history.

The stone cross is older of Kamai Church itself.

WORTH SEENING:

Postavy. Ancient houses and rural sense of peace attract tourists to

Postavy city. Look over the Palace of the Tizengauzes (the XVIII century),

the Church of St. Antonio of Padua (the end of the XIX century) and the

house of craftsmen (the XIX century).

DO NOT MISS:

Traditionally, the international festival of folk music "Cembalo and

harmonica sound" is held here in June. www.kultura.by

Address: Vitebsk region, Postavy district, Kamai village.Distance from Minsk totals to 175 km, from Vitebsk - 259 km

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Vitebsk

As if it were a guardian of relentless time, half-destroyed tower of Smolyany Castle rises over flood lands. Small wallows and bogs surrounding it - all that is left from the system of ponds once protecting the citadel against its enemies.

The Castle was constructed in the XVII century upon the order of the Duke Semen Sangushko-Kovelskiy. The fortress was of square design with oversailed towers at corners and the powerful entry gates. Combination of West European techniques and Belarusian folk architecture made that Castle truly unique. Elegant frames, wonderful moldings and luxurious fireplaces are distinctive features of the interior decor.

Before dying, the Duke Sangushko ordered to ornament the chambers with religious paintings, and to plaster the walls of all constructions and paint them with white color, that is how, the Castle was called "Belyi Kovel" (White Kovel).

During the Northern War, upon the order of the Russian Tzar Peter I, the citadel was blown so that the Swedes would not enjoy it, and in the middle of the XIX century, Senator Semenov, a new owner of Smolyany, sold the Castle by bricks.

Smolyany Castle

The ruins of the five-sided tower is the only part of Smolyany Castle preserved until present times.

The traces of the spiral stairs inside the tower.

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WORTH SEENING:

Not far from Smolyany, there is one of the oldest cities of Belarus -

Orsha [41]. One should for sure see The Epiphany Friery of Kutein. Founded

in the XVII century, it still functions. It was here, where Spiridon Sobol, a

printing pioneer, published the first ABC book in Belarusian language.

Address: Vitebsk region, Orsha district, Smolyany village.Distance from Minsk totals to 207 km, from Vitebsk - 103 km


Vitebsk

41

Judging by ancient documents, the stone castle in Mozyr (at the place of older wooden one) appeared in the XV century. It had three protective towers giving its protection to the castle of feudal lord, dwelling and household premises, and the Church of the Holy Savior.

In 1576, the castle was significantly reconstructed and, when two more towers were added, it obtained truly threatening appearance. Nevertheless, in the XV-XVI centuries, the fortress was destroyed by the Tatars multiple times, the uprising of the Prince Glinskiy took place there as well, and in January, 1649, the citadel was taken by assault by the Duke of Vilnya Yanush Radziwill. Upon his order, the fortress was set in fire, whereupon it has never come alive again…

Modern Mozyr Castle is a unique project recreating the ancient city. Wooden fortifications at the castle mountain is a true copy of the historical Castle, just scaled down. Concerts of classic music take place there, souvenir shops and museums operate, and children's city-castle with "live" fairy-tale characters is created for the youngest visitors.

Mozyr Castle


Reconstructed Mozyr Castle.

Children especially like wooden towers with shot holes.

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DO NOT MISS:

Coming to Mozyr in April, one can become a visitor of the international

festival of young talents "The Earth under White Wings". Over 500 talented

children from dozens of countries from all over the world fight for victory

in the competitive vocal and choreographic marathon. www.mymozyr.info

Address: Gomel region, Mozyr district, Mozyr.Distance from Minsk totals to 335 km, from Gomel - 130 km

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Gomel

The most mysterious castle of Belarus is Golshany Castle. It is enlisted along with Bermuda triangle in the "Encyclopedia of the mysterious places of the world".

Someone Golsha, who started to refer to himself to as the Duke Golshanskiy, founded a fortification in Golshany location. Later Sophia Golshanskaya at the age of 16 years old married the 73-year old Polish King Yagailo and gave birth to Kazimir becoming the founder of the Yagellon dynasty.

In the XVI century, Pavel Sapega became a new owner of Golshany, it was him to erect luxurious residence estate. The contemporaries called it "the flower of Lithuania" for its beauty and splendor. Sapega also built the Franciscan monastery mentioned in one of the legends. As the legend goes, one of the walls used to break all the time, therefore the builders sacrificed a human life, they immured a girl alive. Tragic Belaya Panna (White Lady) has been walking the halls of the monastery ever since …

The Northern War (1700 – 1721) significantly destroyed the most outstanding and the most beautiful castle of Belarus. But even now it is still able to surprise and attract connoisseurs of antiquity from all over the world.

Golshany Castle

The Roman Church of Saint John the Forerunner. According to the legend, it is here that White Lady appears most often.

The ruins of "the flower of Lithuania" look very picturesque even today.

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DO NOT MISS:

One of the annual medieval festivals "the Castle of Golshany" is held in

Golshany in summer, when tilting matches take place, cavalry tournaments

are held here and ancient music flies in the air. www.h-t.by

Address: Grodno region, Oshmyany district, Golshany village.Distance from Minsk totals to 125 km, from Grodno - 185 km

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Grodno

The last fortress of the Russian Empire (this is how Grodno Fortress was called) was built in the XIX - the beginning of the XX centuries. It ensured safety of the railway track from Saint Petersburg to Warsaw

Grodno Fortress

Some remnants of fortifications are "scattered" over agricultural farms. The photo was provided by the Administration for Physical culture, Sports and Tourism of Grodno Regional Executive Committee.

The Augustow Canal. The gateway was reconstructed based on the original technological designs.


WORTH SEENING:

Augustow Canal [71] is the unique hydro-technical construction

connecting Visla basin and Neman, consisting of a complex system of

water ways, rivers, lakes and gates, it is one of the three canals of the

type existing in the world (Caledon Canal in Great Britain and the Canal

of Got in Switzerland). It is convenient to observe the Bastilles of Grodno

Fortress travelling along the Augustow Canal (the XIX century). Some of the

remains of the fortifications of Grodno Fortress are located exactly on the

picturesque banks of the Canal.

DO NOT MISS:

Annually in August, close to the Augustow Canal in the area of

Dombrovka, a festival "the Augustow Canal in the culture of three

nations" is held, when Belarusian, Polish and Lithuanian bands give their

performances, and different trade shows for arts and crafts are organized.

www.rik.by

Address: Grodno region, Grodno.Distance from Minsk totals to 280 km

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and it included 13 Bastilles and 19 special and 23 base points. The ventilation system deserves special attention, even now, in the preserved premises, there is no must, air is fresh and dry.

It is interesting to know, that all the Bastilles were blown in 1915 by retreating Russian troops, only one Bastille close to Strelchiki village remained intact. During the years of the First World War, the solders refused to blow the fortification and to retreat under the fire, they did not want to betray 150 injured fellows. As a result, only 7 defenders survived…

The Bastille of Naumovichi village has gained notoriety. During the Second World War, the German invaders executed peaceful citizens there. Today, the monument representing Mater dolorosa mourning for her sons reminds of that event. Not far from there, one can find permanent fire positions of the 40-s of the XX century, so called "the line of Molotov".

Grodno71

Grodno is one of the oldest cities of Belarus, it is known for its castles.

The Old or Upper Castle was constructed in the XIV-XV centuries by the legendary Duke Vitovt and it became known as a secure stronghold. Mighty walls, 300 meters long and 3 meters wide, five high towers, ditches and embankments had frightening impact on enemies. In 1410, the Duke Viotvt left from here for the famous Battle of Grunwald, when the Order of the Teutonic Knights was defeated.

The Old Castle suffered greatly in the course of the Northern War, and in the XVIII century, a new Castle was built with royal luxury for August III, the King of Poland and Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Built in Rococo style, it resembled Zwinger-Dresden Gallery in terms of its architecture. Here, in 1793, "silent" Seym was held that approved the second partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the last Polish King (and the favorite of the Russian Empress Catherine II) Stanisław August Poniatowski vailed his crown two years later.

Today, the regional library named after E. Karsky is located in the New Castle, and historical and archeological museum is opened in the Old Castle.

Grodno Castles

The Old Grodno Castle was reconstructed at the place of the old Russian fortification founded in the XII century. The New Castle was known for its luxurious interior.

The Senator's and the Round Halls decorated with artistic moldings and carvings especially stood out.

DO NOT MISS:

Concerts of contemporary songs, humor contests, a brass bands

parade and many other things are waiting for guests of Grodno during

the festival of national cultures. The festival is held on annual basis in

the middle of June and it gathers representatives of over 30 nationalities.

www.rik.by

Address: Grodno region, Grodno.Distance from Minsk totals to 280 km

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Grodno

One should for sure see the amazing house-fortress built not far from the Lithuanian-Belarusian border. It is the only monument of architecture of the type preserved in Belarus.

In 1613, Peter Nonhart, a Holland emigrant, an engineer, who managed royal premises in Vilno, built the house for himself. Notwithstanding its modest size (only 15 m for 34 m), that construction may be considered a true castle. Thick walls (about 1.5 m), four round towers, earth rampart and deep ditches made the residence of the Nonharts a difficult bag of an enemy. Special well made in the basement of the construction provided possibility to survive through even the longest siege. It is surprising, but the Swedes failed to conquer the house-fortress during the years of the Northern War.

After the death of Nonhart, artist Shretter, who painted the chambers with hunting-scenes, became an owner of the miniature castle. Later the Khreptovichis, Sakkens, Rimshis were the owners. Maria Vereshchaka, the beloved of Adam Mitskevich, lived here for some time, and the great poet often came to Gaityunishki from Vilno.

The House-Fortress in Gaityunishki


Once ditches surrounded the fortress, now it is surrounded by flowers.

The house-fortress has been wonderfully preserved until present days.

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WORTH SEENING:

Zhemyslavl [91]. In Zhemyslavl village, an estate of the Dukes

Umestovskiys (the XIX century), the exact copy of "Lazenky" - a residence of

the last King of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth August Ponyatovskiy -

was preserved in its entire luxury and glamour.

Address: Grodno region, Voronovo district, Gaityunishki village.Distance from Minsk totals to 195 km, from Grodno - 154 km

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Grodno 91

Bloody intrigues, grievous crimes and decisions changing lives of entire nations brought glory to that Castle. The powerful citadel in Krevo appeared in 1330s. It was constructed from big boulders in Roman style upon the order of the Lithuanian Duke Olgerd.

Later, the Duke Yagailo ordered to choke to death his uncle Kiejstut claiming for the authority in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in the Prince Tower. By miracle, Vitovt, the son of the killed heir, who, as legend goes, ran away disguised in women's dress, managed to avoid the same destiny.

In 1385, the conditions of the Union of Krevo were developed here. It united the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the Kingdom of Poland under the ruling of Yagailo, turning them into the most powerful country, i.e. into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

During the Northern War (1700-1721), Krevo Castle faced terrible attacks. And it happened to be at the front line during the years of the First World War.

Today, this once the most beautiful castle lies in picturesque ruins covered with small trees and wild herbs; but looking at them, one can see the steps of the history.

Krevo Castle

Numerous wars turned the oldest castles of Belarus into ruins.

According to the legend, the Catholic Church of Lord's Transfiguration was built at the place of the ancient heathen temple.

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WORTH SEENING:

Boruny [101]. The monastery of the Basilians (XVIII century) was

preserved in this village. The Roman Church of Saint Peter and Paul at the

monastery built in Baroque style has extraordinary and luxurious appearance.

Its absolute asymmetry is a characteristic feature of the cathedral.

Address: Grodno region, Smorgon district, Krevo village.Distance from Minsk totals to 108 km, from Grodno - 215 km

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Grodno

101

Lida Castle


Knights' "Castel", a special square castle able to hide behind its wall the entire garrison, served as prototype for Lida fortress.

One of the towers of Lida Castle was preserved intact.

11

DO NOT MISS:

At the end of August, amateurs of motorcycles and everything that

relates to them rush to Lida to the grandiose bike festival. Thousands of

bikers from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Switzerland and other

countries, plenty of contests, performances of rock-musicians, fire shows

and numerous pleasant surprises are waiting for viewers and participants.

www.lida.info

WORTH SEENING:

Not far from Lida, in Berezovka [111] settlement, there is the oldest

in Belarus glass factory "Neman" (1891). In the XIX century, crystal glass

produced there used to be highly appreciated in Europe. One can not only

see original contemporary products, but to buy them as well.

Address: Grodno region, Lida district, Lida.Distance from Minsk totals to 170 km, from Grodno - 111 km

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Lida citadel is one of the oldest castles of Belarus. In 1323, the Grand Duke Gedymin built it at the place of confluence of Lidea and Kamenka rivers. The walls made of large boulders had significant thickness, up to 3 meters, and the citadel became

a powerful outpost for the protection against the Teutonic Knights. There is a legend, that Dmitriy Karibut, a brother of the King Yagailo, left a handful of soldiers in the besieged castle, while he flew away himself. All the warriors died and their ghosts have been wondering the medieval corridors ever since.

An amazing fact is that since 1396, the douar of Tuqtamış, a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, stood by the walls of the Castle. Having lost the war to Timur, the Mongol famous by ancestry ran away to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania counting for the support of the Duke Vitovt in the fight for the throne of the Golden Horde.

After the wars of the XVI – XVII centuries occurring all over Belarus, the Castle lost its defensive value.

Today, Lida Fortress is under restoration. Soon, a new house of the headman, barracks and a well will appear here. It is interesting to know that the experts from the UNESCO consider possibility of enlisting the protective line Lida-Krevo-Medniki-Troki into the World Heritage List.

Grodno

111

Lyubcha Castle stands out with its chiseled silhouette on a high Neman bank. As the legend goes, it was here, where the Duke Mindovg met a beautiful girl and fell in love at first view. The name of the location, i.e. Lyubcha, took its origin from that event.

Yan Kishka, an owner of these lands at the time, built the first fortification in the XVI century. He was an extraordinary man, as well as one of the wealthiest barons. Lyubcha was granted Magdeburg right and received its coat-of-arms mainly due to his efforts.

At that time, the Castle was almost completely made of wood, and only the entry gates were made of stone. Threatening and inaccessible with four levels of shot holes, it was the main element of the protection of the citadel. At the end of the XVI century, Nikolai Radziwill, a new owner of Lyubcha, significantly reconstructed the fortress. It was turned into stone fortress with three towers. And in the XIX century, the last owners of Lyubcha built a Palace in English Neo-Gothic style with small faceted towers at the corners in the close proximity of two preserved towers.

Lyubcha palace did not lose its force of attraction with time; even now, it amazes numerous guests with its powerful skyline.

Lyubcha Castle

Lyubcha Castle. One can still feel the power of the fortification even though only two towers were preserved.

Autumn makes the ancient Castle especially attractive.

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WORTH SEENING:

Shchorsy [121]. In this small village located 15 km away from

Lyubcha, there is an estate of the Khreptovichs, where the biggest library

in Europe was once located and where famous scientists and writers Adam

Mitskevich, Jan Czeczot, Vladislav Syrokomlja worked at different times.

Address: Grodno region, Novogrudok district, Lyubcha urban type settlement.Distance from Minsk totals to 150 km, from Grodno - 180 km

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Grodno

121

Murovanka is one of the oldest castles of Belarus.

Whitewashed ornamental niches decorating the walls of the construction add some "airiness" to the construction.

Malomazheikovskaya Church (Murovanka) is one of the most incredible monuments of Belarusian architecture. That sacred place was founded in the first half of the XVI century. Features of Gothic and Renaissance styles are fancifully interwoven in the image of the Cathedral. Some scientists seriously suppose that architects were inspired by … Byzantine minarets.

Unusual and belligerent appearance impressed Karl XII (when the Sweden King passed by the village in the years of the Northern War) so much, that he ordered to outshot the Cathedral. After that event, that sacred place was abandoned for a long time, and it was reconstructed only in 1822.

From the beginning, the church had four towers at corners, each of which had a spiral stair leading to shot holes. 2-meter wide walls were out of reach of enemies' ammunition, while the iron door strengthened with metal frame securely closed the entrance.

Reconstruction of the XIX century slightly changed the architecture of the Cathedral, i.e. front towers were turned into bell-towers, spiral stairs and some shot holes disappeared. The Church was abandoned for a long time, but as from 1990, it operates again. Museum is also expected to appear soon at the attic of Murovanka.

Malomazheikovskaya Church


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WORTH SEENING:

Shchuchin [131]. The Palace of the Drutskoy-Lyubetskys (the XVIII-

XX centuries) in Shchuchin will complement wonderful impressions from

Malomazheikovskaya Church.

Address: Grodno region, Shchuchin district, Murovanka.Distance from Minsk totals to 216 km, from Grodno - 65 km

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Grodno

131

The Castle "enjoys" its reflection in Miryanka river.

Mir Castle was rebuilt multiple times becoming bigger and bigger resembling more and more a Palace. View from the yard.

Mir Castle resembles a picture from a book of wonderful fairy tales. Five of its towers are decorated with numerous niches and bars, which is a distinctive technique of architects of the XVI century. Nevertheless, there are no analogs to this wonder of medieval architecture in Europe.

The Dukes Ilinichys began the construction of the fortress in the XVI century. Later, the Castle was transferred to the Radziwills, who added features of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The last owners, the Dukes Svyatopolk-Mirskys mainly took care of restoration works. They are associated with a legend heating the imagination.

According to the legend, upon the order of one of the Svyatopolk-Mirskys, a pond was made at the place of a garden in blossom. In the course of the works, the witch's son died and the witch cast a curse upon the Dukes, "The pond will take as many lives as there were trees in the garden". Actually, many people had sunk in that water basin until the "bad place" was sprinkled with holy water. There is one more legend saying that a sheep was sacrificed during the foundation of the citadel. One can see the stone resembling sheep's head in one of the walls.

In 2000, Mir Castle was included into the UNESCO World Heritage list. At the time, restoration works are being held there, and tourists may visit only one of the towers, the gallery and the basement.

Mir Castle

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DO NOT MISS:

"Musicales in Mir Castle" is an annual open-air art festival ("live" music,

performances of famous groups, colorful fireworks). www.mirzamak.by

Address: Grodno region, Karelichi district, Mir urban type settlement.Distance from Minsk totals to 100 km, from Grodno - 197 km

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Grodno

Picturesque ruins - all that was left after the biggest castle of Belarus. Over 500 years ago, the legendary wedding of the Polish King Yagailo and the Princess Sophia Golshanskaya was held in Novogrudok Roman Cathedral (against its background). The Medieval Festival held in

Novogrudok.

Novogrudok Castle was once the biggest castle on the territory of Belarus. The construction of the Fortress started in the XIII century, but it had obtained its final appearance only by the XVI century.

Novogrudok became the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. In 1253, coronation of the famous Duke Mindovg took place in the Castle; having received his crown from the hands of Papa Innocentius IV himself, he united lands of Lithuanian and Slavic tribes under his ruling.

The Crusaders were totally defeated by its walls in 1314; during the XVI century, the Crimean Tatars attacked the Fortress more than once. However, most of all it suffered in the course of the Northern War (1700-1721).

The ancient walls remember steps of Adam Mitskevich, the most prominent and the most mysterious Belarusian poet. It was here, where he spent his childhood and teenage years.

Modern Novogrudok Castle consists of two half-destroyed towers overlooking the high steep. It is a wonderful place for amateurs of romantics and ancient history. Walking along the very edge of the bank of the Fortress, it is pleasant to imagine the course of life of the medieval city that was here hundreds of years ago.

Novogrudok Castle


15

DO NOT MISS:

At the festival of Medieval culture held in Novogrudok in the middle

of the summer, one can see tilting matches, cavalry battles, treat himself

with dishes prepared based on ancient recipes. www.novogrudok.grodno-

region.by

Address: Grodno region, Novogrudok district, Novogrudok.Distance from Minsk totals to 148 km, from Grodno - 190 km

15E3

Grodno

Synkovichi Church of Saint Michael the Archangel is a true masterpiece of Medieval architecture. In famous times, local villagers not only attended sermons there, but also found shelter from enemies. Along the creasing of the cathedral-fortress there, was a chain of round shot holes, while mighty 1.5-meter wide walls could withstand any attack.

Researchers still debate on exact time of its construction. Some scientists say it was constructed in 1407, others name date it by the end of the XV century. There is also an opinion, that the Duke Vitovt himself founded the church in consideration of his salvation.

In 1377, after the death of Olgerd, the son of deceased Prince Yagailo on the one hand and his brother Keistut with his son Vitovt on the other hand laid claims to the authority in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Yagailo traitorously enticed his uncle and cousin into Krevo Castle, where he ordered to kill his relatives. Keistut was suffocated to death, while Vitovt managed to escape. Historical resources say that Vitovt actually lived for a long time in Synkovichi calling up his strength for a new fight.

During the years of its existence, Synkovichi Cathedral happened to be Orthodox, Catholic and Uniate. It still operates.

Cathedral-Fortress in Synkovichi

The main façade of Synkovichi Cathedral. Two front towers are eighteen-sided, and the other two are round.

From far away the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel resembles a small fortress most of all.

16

WORTH SEENING:

Slonym [161] is one of the oldest cities of Belarus (the XI century),

it is located not far from Synkovichi. One should see for sure the unusual

luxurious Bernardine Church (the XVII century), the magnificent Cathedral

of Saint Andrew (the XVIII century) and the ancient Synagogue (the XVIII

century) that had operated all the way until 1940.

Address: Grodno region, Zelva district, Synkovichi.Distance from Minsk totals to 210 km, from Grodno - 130 km

16F3


Grodno

161

Two historical époques crystallized at once in the ancient castles of Zaslavl.

In 985, Vladimir the Red Sun, a future christianizer of East Slavic lands, founded a wooden fortification at the border of his dominion. The Duke became known for that he married the Polish Princess Ragneda against her will having killed her father and brothers. Once, in the middle of a night, disobedient wife tried to kill her husband with a knife, but Vladimir woke up. In a violent temper, he wanted to kill his wife, but 5-year old son Izyaslav came to the defense of his mother. Then the Duke exiled proud Ragneda and young heir to a distant fortress, later called Izyaslavl (Zaslavl).

At the place of the ancient settlement of the X-XI century, protective embankments have been preserved in good condition, in 1988, a monument to 1000 anniversary of Christianity appeared there.

One can see embankments and ditches of the second castle (the XVI-XVII century) not far from here. It became one of the first bastion fortifications in Belarus. In the center of the fortress, the Calvinist church was built, which was turned into the Savior and Transfiguration Orthodox Church in the XIX century. Its 35-meter 5-layer bell tower served as a watchtower during the wartimes.

Unfortunately, only small fragments remained from the walls of the Castle, while the cathedral still operates.

Zaslavl Castles


The view of the Savior and Transfiguration Church built inside the protective embankment.

The Catholic Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Zaslavl was founded in 1774.

DO NOT MISS:

At the end of August, ancient Zaslavl invites true gourmands to

"Zaslauski kirmash", a traditional festival of bread, flowers and honey. One

can try dozens of types of fresh aromatic bread baked based on ancient

recipes, as well as to treat oneself with sweet honey. www.zaslaue.by

Address: Minsk region, Minsk district, Zaslavl.Distance from Minsk totals to 27 km

17E5

17 Мinsk

Uncrowned kings of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, this is how the contemporaries used to call the powerful Radziwill royal family, whose residence was located in Nesvizh. Nesvizh Palace constructed in the XVI century has been preserved in wonderful state until the present day.

Nikolai Radziwill Sirotka started the construction of the Castle in 1584. And the last members of the Radziwill family left it only in 1939, when Nesvizh became part of the USSR.

Several centuries in succession, the Castle-Palace was destroyed and rebuilt, and today, it fancifully combines features of the Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic and Classicism styles.

The legend about mysterious treasures of the Radziwills hidden in the premises of the castle in 1812 still does not give piece to the adventurers. They say, that among the treasures, there are 12 legendary Apostles (gold full-scale statues). Another legend tells us about the desolate poisoned Queen Barbara Radziwill, whose restless spirit cannot find piece and is doomed to walk the corridors of the Palace forever.

In 2005, Nesvizh Palace was included into the UNESCO World Heritage list. At the moment, restoration works are being performed here, tourists may see the archives and the library of the Radziwills, certain elements of Slutsk belts, medieval suits of armor exhibited in 4 open halls.

The Castle and Park Ensemble in Nesvizh

The Cathedral Church or the Catholic Church of Corpus Christi is a family resting place of the Radziwills. There are over 70 preserved depositions. Different architectural styles harmonically complete

each other in the appearance of Nesvizh Castle.

18

DO NOT MISS:

Annually, the best Belarusian and Russian symphony orchestras

gather together in May in order to perform world classic masterpieces

at the chamber music festival "Muses of Nesvizh". www.nesvizh.minsk-

region.by

Address: Minsk region, Nesvizh district, Nesvizh.Distance from Minsk totals to 110 km

18F4


Мinsk

Bobruisk Fortress is associated with many wonderful events. The biggest citadel in Europe had been under the construction for over 30 years; the Russian Empire truly valued it as it was a very powerful fortress on the newly merged lands.

The project was developed by Karl Opperman, a talented military engineer. By 1812, the builders had barely raised banks, prepared ditches and reduits, and had only constructed five Bastilles, military barracks, a hospital and wharehouse constructions. But Napoleon failed to conquer even incomplete Fortress and preferred to live it behind. By the way, there is a legend that countless treasures of the French Emperor are hidden in the giant labyrinth of the underground passages of the citadel.

In 1825, revolutionary noblemen wanted to arrest the Tsar Alexander I in Bobruisk Fortress, but the Emperor did not come then.

Only in 1836, the construction of the fortress was completed. It got 17 new Bastilles and towers.

Four constructions of the fortress had been wonderfully preserved until present days. Take a walk there and you will feel as if historical events come to life in front of your eyes.

Bobruisk Fortress

The ruins of Bobruisk fortress. Protective aircraft shelter.

The Church of St. George (1905 – 1907) in Bobruisk.


19

DO NOT MISS:

In the middle of the summer, Bobruisk hosts the international festival

of folk arts "the Wreath of Friendship". Folklore and amateur bands

from over 10 countries of the world show their artistic talents.

www.bobruisk.by/art/venok

Address: Mogilev region, Bobruisk district, Bobruisk.Distance from Minsk totals to 145 km, from Mogilev - 115 km

19F7

Mogilev

Ancient Byhov Castle became a bright example of a city-fortress. It was first mentioned in the Chronicles in the XIV century and in 1542, the Hodkevichs, a powerful royal family, owners of the city of the time started the construction of stone fortifications. In the XVII century, Lev Sapega, a new owner of Byhov, completed the construction.

The amazing Palace and Park Ensemble was turned into a real masterpiece of Medieval Architecture. It combined features of Baroque and Renaissance styles, while its luxurious arcade gallery was considered to be its main decoration. An interesting fact is that there were only two stone buildings in the city - the castle and the synagogue, all the way until the XVII century.

A high bank of Dnepr river from the one side and huge 800-meter embankments with bastions and ditches from other three sides securely protected Byhov against enemies. Nevertheless, it had to undergo numerous destructions. In 1590, the fortress was conquered by the "lower Cossacks" of the Hetman Matyusha of Don. And during the years of the Northern War, unified troops of the King August II and Peter I attacked Byhov twice, and finally took it by assault.

Modern Byhov is a nice and peaceful city, and the ruins of the fortification add it unique local color.

Byhov Castle

Byhov Palace was known for its luxury and magnificence among its contemporaries.

The huge 800-meter embankment with bastions and frightening towers securely protected the castle. The photo was provided by www.globus.tut.by

20

DO NOT MISS:

Byhov is a venue of the major festival of Orthodox culture "Kladez"

(Pit) (July). The program of the festival includes exhibitions of icon

painters' works, master classes on icon painting, performances of the

puppet theatre "Batleika", prayers and thematic film exhibitions.

www.bykhov.mogilev-region.by

Address: Mogilev region, Byhov district, Byhov.Distance from Minsk totals to 222 km, from Mogilev - 47 km

20E8


Mogilev

Official name of the countryThe Republic of Belarus. Unitary democratic social law-based state.

Official languages: Belarusian, Russian.

Administrative division: 6 regions with the centres in Minsk, Brest, Vitebsk, Gomel, Grodno and Mogilev. There are more than 100 cities in Belarus, including 12 of them with the population more than 100,000 inhabitants.

Geographic positionBelarus is bordered by Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest, by Ukraine to the south, by the Russian Federation to the east and north and by Poland to the west. North to south extent makes up 560 km (350 miles), west to east extent is 650 km (460 miles).

Territory207,600 kmFertile lowland and hilled plainland with about 11,000lakes and about 20,000 rivers and streams.

Longest riversDnepr, Pripyat, Neman, Berezina, Western Dvina.

Largest lake: Naroch 79.6 km2.

Highest point Dzerzhinskaya Gora (bald mountain) 345 m above sea level.

ClimateThe Belarusian climate is a moderate one, marked by seasonality (winter, spring, summer, autumn). Winters are snowy with the average January temperatures of -6оC (21оF). Summers are warm with the average July temperatures +18оC (64оF). Annual rainfall is about 550-700 mm.

Population: 9,7 million.

Major CitiesMinsk (capital) — 1,8 million inhabitantsBrest — 316.400 inhabitants Vitebsk — 346.900 inhabitants Gomel — 486.300 inhabitants Grodno — 332.000 inhabitants Mogilev — 371.300 inhabitants

Ethnicity Belarusian — 81,2%Russian — 11,4%Polish — 3,94%Ukrainian — 2,4%Jewish — 0,3%Others — 1%

Local timeGMT+2hrs. At noon in Belarus, it's 11:00 in Paris, 10:00 in London, 5:00 in New York, 2:00 in Los Angeles, 13:00 in Moscow.

Currency: Belarusian Ruble (BYR)

Country Dialing Code: + 375

Weights & Meaures: Metric

Voltage: 220V 50Hz

National holidays when all offices are closed1 January: New Year 7 January: Orthodox Christmas 8 March: Women's Day 9th day after Orthodox Easter: Radonitsa 1 May: Labour Day 9 May: Victory Day 3 July: Independence Day 7 November: October Revolution Day 25 December: Catholic Christmas.

Hints to Belarus

Arriving in BelarusBy plane

Belarus has good flight connections with many countries. You may choose National Air Company BELAVIA http://belavia.by or other airlines (see flight timetable at http://www.airport.by).

By train, by coach

You can get to Belarus by train, see timetable at http://www.rw.by (in the Russian language) or by coach http://www.minsktrans.by from many European cities.

By car

Arriving in Belarus is easy. At the border you will have to fill out a declaration on your car and buy Belarusian auto insurance. For driving in Belarus you will need the international driving license. The quality of the roadway covering in Belarus is rather high. Speed limits for cars 60-90-110km/h (37-56-68mph), buses 60-70-90km/h (37-43-56mph), motorcycles 60-90-90km/h (37-56-56mph) in towns, country roads and highways respectively.See more about arriving in Belarus at http://eng.belarustourism.by/info/arrive/

VisaNormally foreigners except for some countries are required to apply for the Belarusian visa in the country of their residence. However you can also get visa on arrival to the National Airport. See more at http://mfa.gov.by/en/consular/airport-visas/.

Information on obtaining visa to Belarus can be found at http://mfa.gov.by/en/consular/, the whole list of Diplomatic Representations of the Republic of Belarus abroad see at http://www.belembassy.org.See more about visa at http://eng.belarustourism.by/info/visa/.

CustomsThere are some things that cannot be imported or exported to/from Belarus by tourists and visitors. The list of such things is rather common with other European countries. More information at http://www.mfa.gov.by/en/consular/customs/ and http://gtk.gov.by See more about customs at http://eng.belarustourism.by/info/custom/

ClothesIn summer it is recommended to wear light clothes. In autumn it is recommended to wear jackets, cloaks, umbrellas are also necessary. In winter when it's freezing and snowing we wear fur coats, sheepskin coats and warm shoes.

FloorsBelarusians consider the ground floor to be the first floor, and so on.

Communication, official languagesThe majority of staff in hotels, restaurants, big stores speaks at least English. People in the streets even if not speaking any foreign language would be delighted to help you find the way.

MoneyBanknotes come in denominations of 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 rubles. Exchange offices dealing in major currencies operating 24h can be found in the hotels, airport, railway stations and in the streets. ATMs are widely used. Most hotels, stores and restaurants accept credit cards.

SafetyThe crime rate in Belarus is relatively low. Belarus is considered to be one of the safest tourist destinations as the crimes against foreigners are rare. Of course, there is no need to walk alone in the dark suburbs in search for troubles. ToiletsPublic toilets can be found in the streets. You can also use those in restaurants for free. Sometimes toilets can be marked M for the Gents' room, and Ж for the Ladies'.

TippingTipping is entirely discretionary in Belarus and service charges are not automatically added to the bill.If you want to tip in a restaurant or cafe, give about 5% of the total amount. Taxi drivers and hotel staff don't generally expect tips, although they are always gratefully received!

Traveling for disabledIf you are travelling in a wheelchair and willing to visit Belarus, you'd better consult the organizers of your tour whether there are the facilities needed for your visiting of several places. The most convenient city for the tourists travelling in a wheelchair is Minsk and the regional centres. Small towns and villages are unlikely to have the accommodation needed. On the whole, the Belarusian hotels and tourist infrastructure objects don't have the substantial experience of working with disabled people. However, they will do everything possible to make your stay comfortable.

Useful phones (free calls)101 — rescue service 102 — militia 103 — first aid

More information at http://eng.belarustourism.by/info/

Basic Information About the Country and Useful Information

State Emblem and Flag

______________________________________________________________CONTRIBUTION and TEXT: © UE “National Tourism Agency”, 2010. PHOTO: © Archive UE “National Tourism Agency”,© www.globus.tut.by, © UFKSiT Grodno regional executive committee. 2nd page of the cover: Belarus at the prints and drawings Napoleon Orda.CONCEPT: Valery Boldyrev, 2010. LAYOUT: Alena Zmitrovich, 2010. TRANSLATION: PE “Translation Studio”, 2010.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: - For help in the preparation of textual material - E. Guseva- For help in the selection of photographs - A. Dybowski, www.globus.tut.by and UFKSiT Grodno Regional Executive Committee

Edition released 2010, commissioned by the Ministry of Sports and Tourism of the Republic of BelarusPUBLISHER: UE "National Tourism Agency"Address: Republic of Belarus, Minsk, 19 Pobediteley Ave., tel. + 375 17 203 92 98.Lic. #02330/0552828 issued 25/03/2010 by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus.

ISBN 978-985-6871-44-6 Format 60X841/8.Quire 3.26. Editor sheet. 3.95Order number 13757. Circulation of 6000 copies. Printed at LLC TM “Argo Graphics” Lic. #02330/0494139 issued 03/04/2009

This book or any part of it cannot be copied or published in any form, including electronic and mechanic, without the written permission of the Publisher.

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Castles, Fortresses, Towers

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