Belarus

INTRODUCTION

Belarus is located between Russia and the rest of Europe. There are many many sites to see in the country, which blends the two cultures together. Minsk is an old capital like other cities in Europe, but has landed on hard times recently.

Major cities include:

Minsk

HISTORY

Archaeological evidence points to settlement in Belarus at least 10,000 years ago, recorded history begins with settlement by Baltic and Slavic tribes in the early centuries A.D. Distinctive features have crept in by the ninth century and the emerging Belarusian state was absorbed by Kievan Rus. The Grand Duchy of Belarus was born here and in part is owing to the strong flowering of Belarusian culture during the Renaissance. Belarus was the site of the Union of Brest in 1597, which created the Greek Catholic Church, for long the majority church in Belarus until suppressed by the Russian empire, and the birthplace of Thaddeus Kosciuszko, who played a role in the American Revolution .

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Rail

All trains arrive and depart from Minsk Central Railway Station located in the center of Minsk. There are several lines from Berlin via Warsaw and Brest with connections to Minsk. Another line runs from Vienna via Warsaw and Brest. Further direct trains are available from other cities, including Kaliningrad, Moscow, Odessa, Riga and Vilnius

Road

Visitors are advised to stay away from military establishments. Tourists may drive their own cars or may hire cars from some larger hotels. Those entering by car should have their visas registered at the hotel, motel or campsite where they stay for the first night and must insure their vehicle with a Belarusian insurance company at crossing points.

Language

The official languages are Belarusian and Russian.

Mobile telephone

Coverage is limited to main towns. Handsets can be hired at the airport (Belcel office) and in Minsk.

Electricity

220V, 50Hz. Adapters are recommended.

Internet

There are a few Internet cafes in Minsk. Access is also available at some post offices.

ATTRACTIONS

The Mir Castle

The ruins of the Palace of the mMgnate Sapega

Brest Fortress