Free-visit Castles

Free-visit Castles

Travelling on a budget in Belarus is easy. Saving options are available almost everywhere: ranging from shopping to using public transport. But when it comes to viewing the real architectural masterpieces that number at least a couple of centuries, economizing becomes a real pleasure.

The top list of free attractions in Belarus is opened by Belarusian castles. Scattered all around the country, they become especially abundant in western regions of the republic. Combining various architectonic and constructive elements and traits of different epochs and styles, they become a great touristic opportunity not only for those interested in history and culture, but actually for everyone. And paying nothing for this wonderful sightseeing adventure makes it even more a must, than an opportunity.

Check out our list of Belarusians castles that are free to visit and start planning an itinerary:

Holszany Castle, the ruined residence of the Sapieha magnate family, which in due time was the seat of one of the largest land estates in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. It is also remarkable that the residence formerly rivaled Mir Castle as the most elegant private estate of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Nevertheless currently, the castle is crumbling away.

Novogrudok Castle was one of the key strongholds of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the likely location of Mindaugas's coronation as King of Lithuania. The castle was a great many times stormed by enemy troops, survived but was heavily damaged. Attempts to preserve the ruins from further decay were undertaken in the 20^th century, however nowadays it is still in ruins.

Krevo Castle, one of the most important scenes in the history of what is today Belarus, is also free to visit. Stone walls of the castle, preserved up to the present moment, in 1385 witnessed The Act of Krewo, the first step towards the Commonwealth of Poland-Lithuania, to be signed. Now some parts of the castle are planned to be restored by the local authorities, however the complete reconstruction is impossible.

Kosovo Castle is a neo-Gothic architectural monument that numbers almost two hundred years. The former magnificent residence of the Puslovsky princely family, now the castle, alongside with other Belarusian manors, shares the tragic destiny of being almost ruined. However the restoring activities are being fulfilled, and are expected to come to an end in 2015.

Lubcha Castle is already known for more than 400 years. It began its life in 1581 as a fortified residence of Jan Kiszka, a powerful Calvinist magnate, later becoming a residential castle of the Radziwill family. Having suffered much damage during both world wars, now the estate is being restored by a team of volunteers.

Unfortunately, most castles are ruined or at the best have been preserved partially, but that on no account diminishes their cultural and historic value, as well as touristic interest. They are still a part, a very significant part of the country’s heritage and an exciting destination for travelers.

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