Sights enough for everyone

Excursion through Brest Region’s Ivanovo District should prove popular with those interested in Polesie history

By Anastasia Yanushevskaya

The route begins in Ivanovo — known for its ancient architectural sites: the Protection of the Holy Mary Church and the Roman Catholic Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross among them. In addition, the district boasts unique wooden buildings and 18th-19th century churches. One in the village of Molodovo boasts the oldest Belarusian bell (cast in the 16th century).

The Geodetic Struve Arc — stretching 2,820km and included on the UNESCO World Heritage List — passes through the Ivanovo District, with three of its points located there. Meanwhile, Dostoevo agro-town is gaining popularity among tourists, being home to the forefathers of the great Russian writer Fiodor Dostoevsky three centuries ago. A monument to Dostoevsky has been erected in the town, which also features a literary folk museum. This focuses on the history of Dostoevsky family and comprises over 3,000 exhibits. Their former manor is to also be reconstructed in Dostoevo in the nearest future.

The route is also to pass through the village of Varatsevichi, where 19th century composer, musician and artist Napoleon Orda was born. A museum is being established in the village, with the first picture gallery already welcoming guests. Local authorities plan to open exhibition halls and an arts school, while restoring Orda’s family manor. Interestingly, Ivanovo has the only monument to the composer in Europe.

Tourists are sure to enjoy Strelno’s Museum of Folk Medicine, which showcases healing herbs and offers healing tea to visitors. The tour concludes in the oldest village in the Ivanovo District: Motol. Here, the first Israeli president, Chaim Weizmann, was born, as were some other outstanding figures. Motol annually hosts a unique Belarusian folk cuisine festival, called Motol Delicacies, and is soon to gain a museum of Jewish culture.

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