The History and Development of the Town Hall
The history of Nyasvizh Town Hall began in 1586 when the city received Magdeburg rights. Around 1596, the construction of the town hall on Market Square was completed, with trade rows on both sides. During the Great Northern War, the town hall was severely damaged by fire. In 1752, the complex was rebuilt in the Baroque style, with new trade premises added to the back side of the building. In 1784, the building was renovated in honor of King Stanislaw Poniatowski’s visit.
Russian Empire Period and Restoration
After the city magistrate was abolished, the city council met in the town hall. In 1806, Dominik Jerzy Radziwill introduced an alcohol tax to maintain and repair the building. However, in 1836, a major fire destroyed the upper tier of the tower and damaged the town hall. Renovation resumed only in 1870, and by 1901, the building was partially restored: walls were reinforced, the roof and basement were repaired, and the main façade with the tower was updated.
Restoration in the 20th Century
In the 1990s, Nyasvizh Town Hall was restored to its original appearance according to late 16th-century designs and a 1604 engraving by Tomasz Makowski. In 2008, the roof of the trade rows was damaged by fire, but it was quickly repaired. Today, the town hall and trade rows are part of the National Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve “Nyasvizh” and a must-see stop for those wishing to book a tour in this picturesque city.
Nyasvizh Excursions – A Journey into History
Nyasvizh Town Hall is not just a historical building but an important part of Belarusian cultural heritage. Excursions around Belarus, especially tours from Minsk to Nyasvizh, provide a unique opportunity to immerse in history and see this architectural gem in person. You can book a tour from Minsk to Nyasvizh and discover this outstanding architectural monument: Mir-Nyasvizh Tour.
