Belarusian Sights

1. Let’s talk about Belarus. What ancient places in Belarus do you know? Which of them have you been to?

Belarus is famous for its unique cultural, architectural, and historical heritage. Many Belarusian towns and cities have preserved ancient temples, palaces, castles, and parks which are noteworthy. The oldest monuments include the Sophia Cathedral in Polotsk with unique frescos dating back to the 11th century, the Kolozha Church of Sts. Boris and Gleb in Grodno. During restoration works, some fragments of 12th-century frescos were discovered there. As for me, I am greatly impressed by the ancient castles in Mir and Nesvizh. The Mir Castle is unique monument of Belarusian architecture. It was owned by Dukes Radziwils. Despite numerous destruction's this red brick castle survived till now; and at present Mir Castle is being successfully restored. One tower and the courtyard are open to visitors. One can have a pleasurable time there visiting a beautiful lake, a village and an Orthodox church nearby. This monument is under UNESCO's supervision. Nowadays the Nesvizh castle is the most beautiful in Belarus. Its erection was started at the order of the Grand Duke Mikhalai Radzivil Sirotka, costruction works were carried out under the supervision of an Italian architect Jiavanni Bernardony. The Radzivils have reconstructed their family nest many times, adding to in new architectural details, which transformed it into a palace-and-castle complex. The Nesvizh castle contains a valuable library, a portrait and picture gallery, a collection of ancient weapons, Slutsk belts, Karelian and Nesvizh wallpaper.

2. Which places are greater fun for you to visit: museums or historic sights? Why?

In my opinion, it’s equally important to visit various historic sights as well as museums, because they bring history alive, enrich you intellectually and broaden your cultural horizons.

3. Imagine that you are on a trip to Minsk. What questions would you ask your guide? (Ask 3 questions.)

1) What places of interest in Minsk can give a visitor a good idea of the historic past of the city? 2) What is the most convenient way of getting about Minsk? 3) What possibilities for entertainment does Minsk offer to young people?

4. What places of interest will you recommend your British friend to visit? (Topic 12 “Belarusian Sights” Questions 1, 5)

A typical Belarusian atmosphere one can experience near the sleepy, dusty village of Dudutki. There is an open-air museum. Traditional crafts, such as carpentry, pottery, handicraft-making and baking are on display.

5. What things are you proud of when you are talking about your country?

Belarusian cities and villages create a magic atmosphere that excites one's passion for knowledge and adventure. Here you will find references to the early Rus principalities, the Great Duchy of Lithuania, the Soviet period, numerous wars and battles, and other historical events. You will discover that Belarus is a native land of Francysk Skaryna, Marc Chagall, Adam Mickiewicz, Kazimir Malevich, and other outstanding people. Numerous World War II memorials including Brest Fortress, Khatyn Memorial, Mound of Glory, and Museum of the Great Patriotic War in Minsk hold a special place in Belarusian history. There are more than 6,000 libraries, 189 museums, and 12 professional theaters including the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theater and the Philharmonic Society.

Дата добавления: 2015-10-30