Belarus

A little Eastern European Secret

Belarus is a landlocked nation in Eastern Europe and is not particularly considered by tourists, though it is full of natural beauties, history and cultural peculiarities. Full of magnificent castles, thick forests, Belarus is the land of ancient traditions and the juncture of the time. An explorer, who is in search of a serenity of the rural life or a history enthusiast, who is interested in learning about existing medieval citadels as well as the monuments of the soviet epoch is welcome to Belarus, the country of multiple surprises and discoveries.

To obtain all information about Belarus , look at its Wikipedia site to see its detailed history as well as general information. To get the official resource and news visit the official site of Belarus 

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Geographical Location

Belarus can be found in the middle of Eastern Europe surrounded by Russia on the east, Ukraine to the South, Poland on the west and Lithuania and Latvia in the north. Belarus is the 13 th largest European nation with a land area size of about 207,600 square kilometers. Being on the way between the Eastern Europe and the rest of the continent, it is an essential transit point. Geography: The landscape of the nation is generally flat with very big forests, rivers, and lakes which brings in a calm and calm environment.

Natural landscapes and Features

Nature of Belarus is very beautiful and varied. The nation has extensive forests among which the most famous is Bialowieza Forest one of the last and largest remains of the primeval forest, which covered much of Europe. There are also lakes and rivers in Belarus including the largest lake in the country- Lake Narach and Dnieper River flowing in the south direction. The national parks in the country include Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, a park that harbor bison the national animal and provides a platform to practice eco-tourism and observation of wildlife.

The History: Ancient Times and the Modern Day

Ancient and Medieval Antiquity

Belarus is rich in its history as it can date back to the medieval times when it became a part of a great Kievan Rus and then the great Grand Duchy of Lithuania. In this period Belarus acquired its own cultural and political identity. The territory experienced erection of spectacular castles, temples, and cities which are present even currently as a proof of the medieval era. The Mir Castle and the Grodno Castle are two perfect examples of the monuments of that era, as the symbols of the medieval past of the country.

Independence and Colonial Era

The history of Belarus is the history of conquering by neighboring powers and dividing. The country was parted between the Russian Empire and the Kingdom of Poland in the 18th century. It spent the better part of the 19th century as a possession of the Russians before it joined the Soviet Union towards the end of the 20th century. The fall of the USSR announced independence of Belarus on August 25, 1991. It has since then followed a policy of sovereignty, without however losing close contacts with Russia and other post-Soviet nations.

History and Development in the Modern Times

Belarus has been experiencing different political problems since its independence. Its government is characterized as one that is centralized and since President Alexander Lukashenko took over its headship in 1994. The country of Belarus is one of the few rigorous supervising totalitarian systems just inhabiting Europe, where the main accent is made on the state regulation of the economy and mass media. Nevertheless, Belarus has taken great steps in the building of its infrastructure and economy and its cultural and historical background still has a lot of say in the development of the country.

Cultural diversity and Heritage

Diversity in Ethnicity and Religion

Various ethnic groups are found in Belarus with a numerical majority of the population belonging to ethnic Belarusians. Others are Russians, Poles, Ukrainians and Jews. The religious culture is very rich in the country as the major faith found here is the Eastern Orthodoxy, followed by Catholicism and Judaism. Peculiarities of the architecture, cuisine and traditions of the country show the diversity of religions and cultures and combine Western and Eastern European cultures.

Customs and Cultures

The Belarusian culture is highly affected by rural practices and the Soviet culture. The nation is rich in folklore, lively festivals, songs, and dances in which major share of the community observes in its life. Kupalle Night became one of the most well-known folk festivals and commemorates the summer solstice; it involves fire performance, songs, and sacrificial effigies that were burned. In Belarus there is also a folklore culture, such us elaborate woodcarving and embroidery, which are firmly established crafts even today by numerous artisans.

Primary Festivals and Celebration

Religious Festivals

Important role in the Belarusian culture belongs to religious festivals, particularly, to the festivals of the Orthodox Church. Christmas and Easter holidays are widely celebrated ones, and Orthodox Christians celebrate them with some peculiar rites and food. There are also other festivals that are celebrated like St. Georges day and Day of the Holy Trinity which are also marked by processions all over the country and prayers.

Special Days and National Holidays

Among the most significant national holidays, it is possible to note Independence Day, which is celebrated on the 3rd of July and is the day of Belarus liberation by Nazi Germany during World War II. Military parades together with concerts and fireworks mark the day. Another event that is celebrated by Belarus is the Constitution Day that marks the founding of a constitution in the country back in March 15th.

The Economy: Agrarian Economy to Industry

Agricultural Sector

Agriculture is extremely important part of Belarus economy and the state is one of the biggest producers of potatoes, flax, and cattle in Europe. Dairy products and poultry farming are also known major export products of Belarus. Most of the agricultural sector is under the control of the state, so the sector is dominant in the national economy. The country Belarus is also a cradle of large timber industry due to its forests.

Manufacturing and Industrial Growth

Belarus has well developed industry and major industries in Belarus are machinery manufactures, chemical, and electronics. One of them, the tractor and automobile industry, is especially significant, and Belarus, in turn, is famous due to its BelAZ trucks and MAZ buses. Moreover, textile and the food processing industries in the country have also grown during the past few years.

Economic Development

Belarusian government has been concentrating on ensuring a high state control and powerful strong centralized economy. Nonetheless, the country has its challenges as it has high reliance on Russia as a source of energy and has not diversified its economy. Nevertheless, Belarus has not been affected by these impediments, and it has been experiencing a relatively low unemployment rate and a high rate of industrial production.

Belarus Essential Sights

Belarus is the land of historical monuments and nature, which provide a great number of activities to the tourists. These are six places that you must visit and get to explore cultural and natural heritage of the country.

1. Mir Castle

Mir Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most emblematic buildings in Belarus which is located in the town of Mir. It is a wonderful medieval castle built in the 16 th century it is the work of renaissance and the Gothic architecture. The castle is enclosed in a beautiful park and must visit by the history and architecture lovers.

2. Białowieża Forest

Bialowieza forest is the last primeval forest and UNESCO world heritage site in Europe. European bison and other wild animals live in this dense forest. It provides picturesque nature tracks, bird watching and a glimpse of what much of Europe looked like before.

3. Grodno Castle

The impressive medieval building is the Grodno Castle situated in the Grodno city on the border with Poland. The castle complex is divided into two sections, the Old Castle, erected in the 12th century and the New Castle, erected in the 16th century. The castle offers breathtaking panoramas over the surrounding and is of significant cultural heritage of Belarus.

4. Nesvizh Castle

Nesvizh Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most significant architectural objects of Belarus. The castle, which belongs to the Radziwi mil family one of the most influential families of the whole country, was constructed in XVI century and was surrounded with the gorgeous park. Tourists can visit the castle rooms and know about the history of the castle and Radziwills.

5. Lake Narach

The body of water that encompasses this fairy story is Lake Narach, the biggest lake standing in Belarus. This water site is a tourist attraction because it is a water sport, boating, fishing and swimming area. The surrounding environment is a peaceful atmosphere and offers calm beaches and forests and thus this can be an ideal place to stay that is peaceful and relaxing to nature lovers.

6. Belarusian National Arts Museum

The Belarusian National Arts Museum in the capital city of Minsk offers a large array of Belarusian art; medieval and contemporary religious icons up to contemporary art and artifacts. It is a requiring destination in the matter of understanding the artistic history of Belarus and its culture as it changed through history.

Healthcare System

In Belarus, there is a well-developed system of healthcare that is universally covered. A huge improvement in the healthcare infrastructure has been realized in the country although rural developments still pose a challenge. Belarus has a reputation of relying on preventive care and the level of life expectancy is relatively high as compared to other states in the region.

Education System

There is a well developed education system in Belarus and all children receive free primary and secondary education. The nation boasts of some of the best universities, one such university is the Belarusian State University in Minsk. The government has also been concerned with getting more people to access better education and come up with vocational and technical training in support of the industrial development of the country.

Transport and Infrastructure

Transport Network

Good transport networks exist in Belarus through a network of highways, rail and airports, which are highly developed. Transportation is effective in the country that links major cities such as Minsk, Brest, and Grodno to other countries. The main airport of entry to the country is Minsk National Airport.

Urban Development

The capital Minsk is quickly becoming modern and new structures and infrastructure development are being built throughout the town. The capital combines the buildings of the Soviet period and the new buildings, continuously strengthening the improvement of green areas, transport system and environmental friendliness of the city.

 Best time of year to Visit

Ideal Seasons

Spring and summer, which are between the months of May and September are regarded as the best timings under which one can be in Belarus as at this time the weather is very comfortable and one would enjoy most of the activities that take place outdoors. The fall seasons are no exception, and they also present an incredible chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the country with its colorful leaves.

Special Events and Festivals

To get the best out of your experience in Belarus visit it during Kupalle Night, Independence Day or during the Minsk International Film Festival which features the global cinema and therefore it will attract world filmmakers.

Conclusion: What the future of Belarus is going to be.

Belarus is a state with many historical and cultural values, the feeling of its national identity. Even in its further economical and cultural development, it is an attractive place to visit by people who want to discover Eastern Europe. Searching for natural beauty or historical monuments, or just cultural impressions, Belarus provides something to any traveler.

A list of the Frequently Asked Questions

When is the most appropriate time to visit Belarus?

It is better to come to Belarus in spring and summer (At the end of May and during September) as this is the period, when the weather is favorable outside.

Which are the best things to do in Belarus?

Some of the significant places of attraction are Mir Castle, Bialowieza forest, Grodno Castle and Nesvizh Castle.

Which are the spoken languages in Belarus?

The two official languages are Belarusian and Russian of which Russian is dominant.

Which are the major industries that lead Belarus economy?

The manufacturing industry, agriculture, heavy industry and state controlled industries guide the economy of Belarus.

Is Belarus tourist-safe?

Yes, Belarus is relatively safe tourist destination with low degrees of crime and people as well.

What are the cultural festivals to be experienced in Belarus?

Among the most popular cultural events that can be attended, there are such events as Kupalle Night, Independence Day celebrations, and the Minsk International Film Festival.