Minsk

The memorial sits on the Minsk-Moscow highway, a 30 minute car ride from Minsk. The monument itself was built in 1969, 25 years after the liberation of Belarus from the Germans, to honour the soldiers that fought against the Nazis in World War II and those who lost their lives. The view from the top of the hill makes the climb worthwhile.

Down from the Old Town by the riverbanks is the evocative Ostrov Slyoz, or “Island of Tears”. This is a memorial to Belarusians who lost their lives in battle, but particularly in remembrance of those that died in the Soviet Union’s war in Afghanistan in the 1980’s.

Standing defiantly on a small hill is the Holy Spirit Cathedral, one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks of Minsk. This two-towered Orthodox cathedral is situated in the Upper Town. It was once part of a Polish Bernadine convent. The monastery buildings nearby are now a music academy.

The trendy space and "cultural incubator," as the creators have aptly referred to it, ok16 regularly hosts art markets showcasing artwork by contemporary Belarusian creators, among other events like exhibitions, theatrical performances, lectures, and more. The entire street is a showcase for Minsk's alternative art scene, with murals and graffiti adorning the walls of Soviet-era block buildings and trendy coffee outlets neighbouring on (fully operational!) factories with "Emplyees of the Month" billboards out front.

Across the road from the Museum of the Great Patriotic War lies a delightful little park that stands on the site of a 19th century marketplace. You often see people playing music here.

North-west of Independence Square is a yellow neo-classical block, which houses the KGB building. On the other side of the street is a park, where you can find a bust of Felix Dzerzhinsky, founder of "Cheka" (the pre-KGB establishment of the Soviet Union).

The Palats Mastatsva is a stylish and trendy hangout – well compared to the dour museums that tend to make up Minsk’s cultural scene. Palats Mastatsva is an arts institute where you will find galleries and book stalls.

This is one of the most beautiful places in Minsk. The Botanical Garden is a leading scientific institution and home to more than 1,000 different plants. It is a tranquil place with a beautiful lake and the perfect spot to have a picnic at on a sunny day.

Few outings in the Belorussian capital can be as entertaining and amusing as going to the circus. Various performances are put on at the Belorussian State Circus - you should certainly try to catch one.