Happy TravellerWelcome to Byaroza, a historic town located in the Brest Region of Belarus. Formerly known as Byaroza-Kartuzskaya, this charming destination is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. With its stunning ruins, fascinating landmarks, and vibrant culture, Byaroza is a must-visit for any traveler looking to explore the hidden gems of Eastern Europe.
History:
The village of Biaroza was first mentioned in 1477 as part of the Slonim paviet. In the 15th century, the village probably received the town charter. Between 1538 and 1600 it was an important centre of Calvinism. Later the town became the private property of the Radziwiłł family. In the 17th century, the village belonged to Sapieha family, who founded a fortified monastery and a palace here. In 1648, the monastery was presented to the Carthusian monks. They came from the Italian town of Treviso and settled here. In gratitude for this deed, Pope Alexander VII granted the title of a prince to Lew Sapieha. The monastery was also expanded and became one of the biggest charterhouses (Carthusian monasteries) in the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. After the partitions, the town and the monastery were annexed by Russia in 1795. After the November Uprising of 1831 the town was captured by the Russian armies and then looted. The monastery was closed by tsarist authorities and in 1866, after the January Uprising, the whole complex was partially demolished, and the bricks were used for construction of a Russian prison and barracks nearby. The baroque church was destroyed in 1868. In 1939 the town was captured by the Red Army and incorporated into the Byelorussian SSR. During World War II, a ghetto was created in the town for Jews who fled there from the surrounding areas. Under the Nazi German occupying administration — which had merged Byaroza, along with most of western Polesia, into the Reichskommissariat Ukraine — more than 8,000 people were killed in mass executions or were starved to death. Numerous pro-Soviet and pro-Ukrainian partisan units were active in the area around Byaroza before Red Army troops finally liberated the town on 15 July 1944. Repopulated with Belarusian and Russian peasants, the town was rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. After a minor building materials factory was opened in the town, another period of fast growth followed. During the postwar period a Soviet aviation military base was placed close to Biaroza. In 1958-1967 a hydroelectric power station was built in the Biaroza Raion. In 1991, after the dissolution of the USSR, the town became part of the independent Republic of Belarus.
Landmarks:
Although the 17th-century monastery was mostly destroyed in the 19th century, there are some ruins remaining. Among them are: Historical gateway with a decorative façade Parts of fortifications surrounding the monastery with several towers partially preserved Ruins of the octagonal church tower Ruins of the hospital Several buildings later incorporated into the tsarist prison.
People from Byaroza:
Jakob Klatzkin, Jewish philosopher Kadia Molodowsky, Jewish poet and writer Kseniya Koçyiğit, Belarusian-born Azerbaijani professional volleyball player
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply exploring new destinations, Byaroza has something for everyone. So why not book your trip today and discover the magic of this enchanting town for yourself?
