Source of healing water in the village of Vishnevo

A Legend That Started It All

According to local legend, everything began with an apparition of the Virgin Mary in the 14th century. This miraculous event took place near a cherry tree, which later inspired the village’s name – Vishnevo (derived from “vishnya,” meaning cherry). The Virgin Mary appeared with a message to build a church on that very spot, and soon a spring of pure water emerged – one that would become known for its healing properties. People began to settle around it, and over time a small village was born.

The first church was built here in 1424 – a wooden structure that became the spiritual heart of the community. Later, after a fire, it was replaced by a stone church, which has survived to this day. The locals believed the water from the spring had healing powers – and this belief was passed down through generations.

A Spring That Survived the Centuries

In the 19th century, cases of healing were documented at the spring. People came not only from nearby villages but also from afar to wash in the holy water or take it home. There were numerous reports of improved eyesight and relief from joint pain. But in the 20th century, the spring’s fate took a darker turn: during the Soviet era, as religious practices were suppressed, the spring was buried and disappeared from view – but not from memory.

Locals continued to share stories about the miraculous water. Based on elders’ recollections, a group of enthusiasts began searching for the lost spring in the early 2000s. As if by divine will, they found it. The water still flowed from the earth – just as pure as it had been centuries ago. This discovery became a milestone not only for Vishnevo but for the spiritual community as a whole.

Consecration and Revival

On October 3, 2009, the spring was officially consecrated. The ceremony brought together many believers, local officials, and both Catholic and Orthodox clergy. It was led by Metropolitan Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, Archbishop of Minsk-Mogilev. That day, young cherry trees were planted near the spring – a symbolic gesture linking the legend to a new beginning.

The first Saturday of October is now celebrated as a special holiday in the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Vishnevo. On this day, pilgrims gather at the holy site with prayers, gratitude, and hope.

The Spring Today

The holy spring has been lovingly restored. A stone arch houses a statue of the Virgin Mary, creating a sense of sacred presence. Below, a pipe delivers a steady stream of crystal-clear spring water – cool and pure, as if alive. A cross stands nearby, along with benches for rest and a well-kept path leading to the spring. Plans are underway to build a baptismal font so visitors may participate in ritual ablutions.

The spring lies at the foot of a hill topped by the church. The picturesque view – the white and blue temple, green slopes, and murmuring water – creates a serene atmosphere that draws people back time and again.

Vishnevo – More Than Just a Village

Vishnevo is the birthplace of notable historical figures, including Symon Budny and Shimon Peres. The village combines Belarus’s spiritual, cultural, and historical heritage. Walking through its streets, visitors will see an old Catholic church, a functioning Orthodox church, remnants of industrial buildings, and scenic views of the Olishanka River.

And at the heart of it all is the holy spring – like the village’s beating heart, enduring through trials and time.

Why Visit the Holy Spring in Vishnevo?

• A unique place with over 600 years of history
• Healing natural spring water
• A legend of the Virgin Mary's apparition
• Peaceful, spiritual, and natural surroundings
• A chance to combine pilgrimage with cultural exploration

If you're looking for a place where history and faith intertwine, where nature whispers through a spring, and hearts are open – come to Vishnevo. The holy spring is waiting. Perhaps here, you’ll feel the true touch of a miracle.

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