Marathon of Unity went to President Lukashenko’s former school in Alexandria

The distance between Alexandria and Minsk is about 250 kilometres. It’s a small, cosy town; its history traces back to the 17th century. Even back then, it already featured a market, a flour mill, and a tavern.

Alexandria’s key point of interest is the secondary school President Lukashenko studied at. The old, wooden school building that is now a museum still stands on the school grounds. Almost nothing changed there in all those years: wooden desks, a globe, a portrait of Lenin on the wall, everything there is reminiscent of the Soviet era school life.
The most popular exhibit is the desk the future Head of State used to sit at; it now has a plaque with his name. If you believe the legend, sitting down at it brings career success.

Music blogger Ulka Pulka told sb.by she’s taking part in the Marathon of Unity for the fourth time.

According to blogger Katerina Zalynskaya, locals don’t think of Alexandria as just another agro-town. It’s a symbol of memory and the point where the sovereign Belarus’ history started.

“I’m so excited! I’ve always wanted to come here; seeing that I’m a teacher, the place is doubly fascinating for me. It was important to see where our President used to study, and the conditions that shaped his personality and politics. It’s amazing how the beautiful nature and the mood here seem to be inspiring kids to grow and improve. I was especially impressed by the school desks. I’ve never seen desks like that in any other school, only in this historical and symbolic one. The Unity Marathon is a monumental initiative that brings together people, cities and regions. The mood here is so positive for both locals and us, the Marathon participants,” Katerina explained.