Minsk

Introduction

Minsk: October Square

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Minsk, the capital and largest city in Belarus, is home to about 2 million people. During World War II, the city was virtually obliterated during heavy fighting, leaving much rebuilding to be done under the ensuing Soviet rule. Stalin's taste has left its mark on the city, with grand buildings, broad avenues, wide square and large apartment blocks making up the city's skyline. Aside from being the capital of Belarus, Minsk is also a headquarters of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Neighbourhoods

There are 9 administrative districts in Minsk:

• Frunzenski
• Kastrychnitski
• Leninski
• Maskouski
• Partyzanski
• Pershamayski
• Savetski
• Centralny, or "Central District".
• Zavodzki, or "Factory district" (so named due to the major plants that were once located there).

Sights and Activities

Mirsky Castle Complex

Mirsky Castle Complex (Мірскі замак) is an amazing sight located just outside of Mir or a day trip from Minsk. Construction of the castle was begun in the 15th century with a Gothic architecture style. Around 1568 the castle got a new Lithuanian Duke as owner who decided to finish the castle in a renaissance style. It was abandoned for about a century then it was restored in the 19th century. When the Nazi's took it over they turned the castle into a Jewish Ghetto. Today it is a very popular tourist sight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other Sights and Activities

• Holy Spirit Cathedral - Was built in 17th century and is one of only a few historic buildings remaining in the city.
• Museum of the Great Patriotic War (Location: pr Francyska Skaryny 25A, city centre. Tel: (017) 277 5611. Open: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm).
• Palats Mastatsva (Art Palace) - Has several exhibition halls showcasing modern art. (Location: vul Kazlova 3, city centre. Tel: (017) 213 3549. ).
• Victory Square - Located in Minsk is an excellent public square with several public structures and monuments.
• National Library of Belarus - Check out this space age building in Minsk.

Weather

Minsk has a continental climate with generally warm sunny summers and cold winters with regular snowfall. Daytime temperatures in summer (June to September) are around 25 °C (with a record of around 35 °C), in winter (December to February) around -3 °C. Nights are 15 °C and -10 °C respectively but can drop below -25 °C sometimes. Precipitation is fairly even during the year, although July and August are somewhat wetter. Winters have snowfall.

Getting There

By Plane

Minsk International Airport (MSQ) is located 42 kilometres east of the city. The national carrier Belavia operates from the airport and several international carriers have flights as well including Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines and Alitalia. Belavia theoretically flies to and from Minsk, Brest, Homel, Hrodna, Mahileu, Mazyr and Vitsebsk.

NOTE. Unless you are on a UK passport you will need to buy a local medical insurance policy (US$ 2-5) for a short-term visit. This is particularly an issue at MSQ Airport where you cannot cross the border without a local policy.

By Train

Belarus Railways operates an extensive rail network with frequent departures to and from Minsk from most major cities and towns, as well as smaller regional places.

Sleep

Minsk has very few budget sleeping places that are advertised online. One of these is the Hostel of International Relations Center located in central Minsk.

Budget

Keep Connected

Internet

A lot of places are appointed with WiFi hotspots but you have to buy a card and go through the login routine to get online. There are several Internet cafes in central Minsk that are worth a visit. Three main ones are: 1) Maxicafe in Vokzal, to the far left from the train station and across the street near the new glass building; 2) House of Red Army Officers - Souyz Online that also has a pizzeria; 3) Head Post Office - the building across the street from the Minsk Hotel.

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls