When in Minsk, visitors are sure to discover a fantastic range of exotic places, valuable architectural spots, and cultural venues which combine to create Minsk's unforgettable landmarks. Do not hesitate to experience the deep culture of Minsk.
1) City Gates
Just near the railway station, overlooking the station square, one will find the city gates of Minsk. The gates are easily recognizable due to the two nearly identical buildings. One of the buildings is affectionately called "The time of Minsk", because of the clock situated on its wall, while the other is named, "Coat of arms of Belarus". Their architecture and beauty is only a prelude to the city's other attractions.
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2) Independence Square
The central and the largest square in Minsk is the Independence Square. The impressive Government House, monument of V.I. Lenin, Belarusian State University, and the Red Castle are all located on Independence Square. Every tourist should visit this amazing square.
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3) General Post Office Building
One of the most beautiful architectural spots in Minsk is The Post Office Building. Since 1946, when it was established, the post office is considered an important city landmark. It's big and extremely impressive. Check it out while in Minsk.
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4) Palace of Republic
The Palace of the Republic is a modern and lively place, well known to every citizen and to many guests of the city. Most important social and political events take place at the Palace of the Republic, as well as numerous presentations, exhibitions, and concerts open to the general public.
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5) City Hall
The history of the City Hall dates back to the 16th century when it was first established. After being demolished in 1857, the famous hall was restored and opened once again to the public in February of 2004. City Hall is the pride of the citizens, thanks to its architecture, political, and cultural importance.
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6) Holocaust Memorial Yama
The Yama Memorial is located on the street Melnikaite and is dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. At this very location on March 2, 1942, the Nazis brutally murdered nearly 5,000 prisoners of the Minsk ghetto. The obelisk was constructed in 1947 and a bronze sculpture named "The Last Way" was added in 2000.
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7) Island of Tears
The Island of Tears, located on Svisloch river, is a famous city landmark which presents a curved stone bridge leading to the island where a monument is located. The monument is dedicated to the soldiers who died in Afghanistan. One important element of the memorial is the figure of a weeping guardian angel.
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8) Belarusian Opera and Ballet Theatre
The large Belarusian Opera and Ballet Theater is located in an amazing building, on the top of Trinity Hill. Inhabitants of the city can see the theatre from almost every corner of the city. The Belarusian ballet troupe is very popular and considered one of the finest things you can do on an evening in Minsk.
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9) Victory Square
The Victory Square was named The Round Square until 1958. Whatever you prefer to call it, Victory Square is easily considered one of the most important of the city's landmarks. Holiday parades often take place at the square. Also, visitors will admire a 38 meter high granite monument conceived in the honor of soldiers of both the Soviet army and the guerrillas of Belarus.
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10) Yakub Kolas Square
Yakub Kolas Square is situated where the historical Komarovka once occupied and is spread over more than 5 hectares. The square bears the name of the famous poet Yakub Kolas. In the center of the square, tourists will enjoy a multitude of fountains and monuments.
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11) National Academy of Science Building
The National Academy of Science of Belarus was established in 1928 and is the highest scientific state organization of the country. The National Academy of Science Building is a very important element to the culture of Minsk.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Hanna Zelenko