Day two: Molodechno
Among them is the memorial complex "Stalag-342". The complex is a stylized barracks made of concrete for holding prisoners of war. The remains of 33,150 people tortured in this concentration camp are buried here. In July 1941, on the territory of the former Molodechno Teachers' Seminary, the occupiers set up a camp for Soviet prisoners of war. Over 80 thousand Soviet citizens passed through this camp during the war.
The concentration camp was ravaged by epidemics and hunger. The stronger ones were driven to work, and the weaker ones were either starved or killed outright. The prisoners of war slept on the floor, in the attics. At night, to go to the toilet, you had to walk right over human bodies. But the worst thing began with the arrival of winter. The barracks where the prisoners were located were not heated. An epidemic was raging. And they were fed bread with sawdust. People ate their 100 grams and died, writhing in terrible pain.
The memorial, which immortalizes pain and suffering, is a symbol of fortitude and memory of those who died in the name of saving our Motherland. This is a memory that can never be forgotten!
Another interesting facility is Molodechno Central Library named after M. Bogdanovich. Today it is a modern bookstore, which has become one of the cultural centers of the district. The exhibition hall regularly hosts exhibitions of graphics, painting, photography, decorative and applied arts of Belarusian and foreign authors. The Forum participants were told about the project "Come and See". Its main idea is to openly talk about significant events of the past. The project includes excursions to memorial sites and museums, aimed at fostering patriotism and respect for history.
The Forum participants visited Molodechno District Crafts Center, where they learned the talented works of local craftsmen, and CJSC “Dilis Cosmetic”.
The participants of the Republican TIC Forum were cordially received by Minsk Regional Museum of Local History. It features a permanent exhibition that tells the story of Minsk region from ancient times to the beginning of the 20th century. Its main feature is the design of the hall, which combines traditional and unusual design of the exhibition showcases. The non-standard color scheme attracts attention. All this together creates a special emotional background.
The funds of Minsk Regional Museum of Local History impress with their collections. Unique materials are put together here, including a hoard of Arab silver dirhams from the 9th-10th centuries, a gold-woven kontusz belt from Slutsk manufactory from 1760-1776, early printed books from Nesvizh and Moscow, and much more.
They also visited the TIC in Molodechno. This tourist information center is not just an information desk. It is a center that helps guests navigate the region, turning their stay into the most comfortable and fulfilling journey. The main goals and objectives of the tourist information center are to inform tourists, create an attractive image of the district, promote infrastructure development and help in organizing tourist routes. The TIC actively cooperates with local entrepreneurs and organizations to offer guests high-quality services and unique products.
In the tourist information center you will find up-to-date information on all tourist opportunities: from excursions and tours to festivals and cultural events. Here they actively work on promoting agroecotourism, event and ecotourism, which is especially important for preserving Belarusian nature and traditions.
Molodechno is famous for its cultural traditions and architectural monuments. There are many interesting places to visit in the area:
The results of the III Republican TIC Forum were summed up at a dialogue platform that took place in Molodechno with the participation of the Deputy Director of the National Tourism Agency Anna Voshchinchuk.
Participants in the dialogue supported the idea that a modern tourist information center is multidisciplinary in its understanding: on the one hand, it unites tourist traffic around itself; on the other, it is a generator of activities that will attract tourists.
Not only tourists, but also city residents should be involved in this interaction process. This will stimulate interest in the history of the native land and at the same time form and develop a sense of patriotism. Here, a tour guide plays one of the key roles. This is not just a person who introduces a landmark – this is the face and image of the region.