Sightseeing in Vitebsk - what to see. Complete travel guide

The first settlements on the territory of modern Vitebsk appeared in the Stone Age. Archaeologists have discovered ancient cities, barrows, as well as household items and tools of labor of the first settlers. The very first principality which arose on this territory is Polotsk. It was located in the basins of the Western Dvina; partially Neman and Berezina. Due to its favorable geographical position, the city actively developed. The center of the principality was at that time the city of Polotsk, and the first prince was Rogvolod, the founder of his family dynasty.

Vitebsk was founded in the year 974 by the Kiev princess Olga, but in the annals it is mentioned for the first time much later, in 1021. Vitebsk and Polotsk teams participated in many legendary historical battles. In the period of feudalization of the IX-XI centuries, individual cities grew and grew, new states were formed, among which the Grand Duchy of Russia, Lithuania and Zhemtoy. By the end of the 13th century, many Belarusian lands became part of it, including Vitebsk. In the 15th century it and Polotsk were important cultural and commercial centers. Trade was carried out not only between different areas of the Grand Duchy, but also with Czech Republic, Germany, Italy and many other states.

The unification of these lands played a very significant role in the development and formation of the Belarusian ethos. It was after it that an original culture began to form and the life of the indigenous population acquired its unique characteristics. In the 16th century, architecture developed actively, which was able to embody all the national peculiarities and traditions of the Belarusian people. During this period, powerful fortresses, beautiful palaces and castles were of great worth, and newly constructed temples began to be painted with frescoes. The population of Vitebsk province was mainly Orthodox. Vitebsk suffered severe trials during the war of 1812, and in the 19th century, numerous liberation movements were constantly influencing public life. During the Second World War, the city was inhabited by more than 100 thousand people; Vitebsk was considered one of the largest industrial cities in the Western Region. Now Vitebsk is a beautiful modern city, which is known for its unique cultural and spiritual traditions. It is very popular among tourists who are interested in history and prefer to rest in dynamically developing cities. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Among the most interesting attractions of Vitebsk, Zdravnevo Manor is worth being mentioned. It is built of wood and has a great value from an architectural point of view. The manor is also famous for belonging to artist I. Repin in the late 19th century. He purchased it in 1892 and then even restored it. The most extraordinary element of the building is a high tower with terraces and balconies. It is distinguished by its unusual interior. Now, the manor is located on the territory of the beautiful park. Here, you can see age-old lindens planted by the artist.

The unique religious monument is the Church of St. Prince Alexander Nevsky. If you look at the wooden church now, you will suppose that it was built several centuries ago. Actually, the church was built in the late 20th century. It was opened when the Church of Annunciation was closed for reconstruction. Then, it was decided to reserve the new church, so, today, it is considered one of the most beautiful wooden churches in the country.

Walking across the historical Suvorov street may turn into an exciting sightseeing tour. Here, you can see a lot of beautiful old constructions. The main value of the street is the Temple of the Resurrection of Christ. Today, many historic buildings serve as prestigious restaurants, cafes, and interesting shops.

In the historical center of the city, you can see the City Hall built in 1775. This spectacular building with light walls and a high clock tower the guests can see now was built at the site of the former one. The present City Hall was constructed in accordance with the best traditions of the baroque style. It stopped being used as intended several decades ago. Now, the historical building serves as a local history museum where you can see unique exhibits of the 13th-19th centuries.

The beautiful architectural monument is the Church of St. Barbara. This Catholic temple in the Romanesque Revival style was built in 1785. At the end of the 19th century, it was reconstructed for the first time. The historical church is one of the few in the city that has been preserved in the Soviet period. After the Revolution of 1917, the building of the church served as a warehouse.