There are about 1,400 religious sites in Belarus. Almost all the shrines are included in various tourist routes: 460 in Grodno region, 400 in Brest region, 123 in Minsk region, 69 in Mogilev region, 50 in Gomel region and 20 in Minsk City. More information about these sites can be found at this link.
In 2023, more than 7,000 excursions were conducted at religious tourism sites, and about 130 excursion routes on this topic were developed (updated).
During the month of religious tourism, seminars, round tables, excursions, exhibitions and other events in various sectors will be held, which will increase interest in Belarus as a tourist destination, as well as stimulate the development of tourism in different regions of Belarus.
These days, Polotsk Sophia Cathedral is hosting the International Organ Music Festival "Bells of St. Sophia" (it will last until November 17, 2024). On October 16, 2024, a visiting workshop will be held in Vitebsk region «Development of religious tourism in Polotsk and Polotsk district». Welcome to participate.
We have compiled a checklist of holy places for you that are a must-see during the month of religious tourism. These sites are included in the preliminary list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Temples that will touch everyone`s feelings:
Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior and St. Sophia Cathedral in Polotsk;
Boris and Gleb (Kalozha) Church in Grodno;
St. Nicholas Convent in Mogilev.
Defensive religious buildings:
Church of St. John the Baptist in Kamai village, Postavy district;
Church-fortress of the Holy Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Murovanka village, Shchuchin district;
Church of St. Michael in Synkovichi village, Zelva district.
By the way, in 2023, the Holy Dormition Zhirovichi Stavropegic Monastery became the winner of the National tourism competition “Discover Belarus” in the nomination “Religious Tourism Object of the Year”.