Belarusian diplomats returned valuable publications from Khreptovich library to Belarus from Germany
The Book Museum of the National Library of Belarus first displays unique exhibits: books returned to their homeland from the Khreptovich famous historical book collection
“Valuable publications from the Khreptovich library returned to Belarus from Germany in 2023 thanks to the activities of the diplomatic mission for the return of historical and cultural values,” noted the Research Department of Book Science at the National Library of Belarus.
The Khreptovich library existed from late 18th century to early 20th century in the Shchorsy estate (now the Novogrudok District). It was founded by Chancellor Joachim Litavor Khreptovich. The book collection was considered one of the richest in Eastern Europe already in the 18th century. The library included works by ancient authors, French and Italian classical literature, works on the history of different countries, and manuscripts.
Two editions of the late 18th-19th centuries in French, dedicated to events related to such famous historical figures as the first Emperor of the Russian Empire Peter I and the English commander and politician John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough, will replenish the stock of the National Library of Belarus. The editions bear the marks of the former owners: the Khreptovich seals and ex-libris.
The books were handed over to Belarus by German citizen Marion Schwesinger.
