Date :
Thursday, November 16, 2023
The city of Mozyr, located in the Gomel region, is known for its unusual contrasting relief formed as a result of the Dnieper glaciation, which existed about 300 thousand years ago.
In 1986, a nature reserve was established in the Mozyr district to preserve the landscape and biological peculiarities of the region in their natural state. In 2007, the reserve underwent reorganization, with some areas situated in the western and central parts of the city being excluded from its jurisdiction.
The "Mozyr Ravines" National Landscape Preserve covers an area of about 80 hectares and boasts steep hilly slopes covered in dense vegetation, deep ravines - some reaching depths of 60 meters, eroded by boulders and ancient forests. The preserve also houses rare hornbeam forests indigenous to this region.
Within the preserve, one can find rare plant species including the snowdrop anemone, white peony, woodland anemone, and the relic European orchid. The fauna is represented by rare species, such as the raccoon dog, marten, and ermine. Rare insects like the carpenter bee, marble rose chafer, and sea buckthorn hoverfly also inhabit the area.
A unique feature of the Mozyr preserve is that it almost completely covers the city boundaries. Some residential streets run right through the bottom of the ravines. The ravines also possess a distinct microclimate, with temperature differences between the highest and lowest points reaching up to 12°C. Due to the significant elevation changes, uncharacteristic of the Belarusian landscape, man-made tree terraces had to be planted to prevent landslides.
The "Mozyr Ravines" nature reserve is not just a conservation site but also a recreational area. Residents of Mozyr and city guests enjoy spending time here, as the hilltops offer scenic views of the Pripyat Valley.
Two ecological trails, spanning 3 and 6 kilometers, run through the Mozyr ravines. Along these trails, informational stands have been set up detailing the fauna and flora of the area. Walking these routes offers a chance to familiarize oneself with the diverse flora and fauna of the preserve, appreciate the unique terrain, and simply enjoy a stroll along the beautiful forest paths. One can explore these eco-trails independently or as part of guided tours. The Mozyr ravines are especially picturesque in the fall when colorful foliage adorns the hilly slopes. Within the preserve, there's also an ancient settlement dating back to the early Bronze Age. Traveling to Mozyr from Minsk is possible by bus, minivan, or personal car.