History of Creation
The palace and park ensemble began to take shape in the first half of the 19th century when the estate became the property of a noble family — the Rdułtowskis. This Polish-Lithuanian aristocratic family was actively involved in the political and cultural life of the region. At the beginning of the 19th century, the family decided to establish a representative manor on the estate, which would serve not only as a residence but also as a cultural center.
The design of the palace was entrusted to the renowned architect Boleslav Tychevsky, who had experience in creating manor and religious buildings in the Neoclassical style. Construction took place on elevated ground near the Snovka River, ensuring scenic views and allowing natural elements to be integrated into the overall composition. Upon completion, the palace became a venue for receptions, balls, and musical evenings. It welcomed members of the nobility and cultural and artistic figures.
Over time, especially following the events of the late 19th and early 20th centuries — when the territory came under the control of the Russian Empire, and later the Soviet Union — the estate lost its original significance. During the Soviet era, the palace was partially repurposed, and later, it was transferred to the control of a military unit and border service. Despite this, the ensemble has remained well-preserved and continues to be a key site in the cultural and historical heritage of Belarus.
Palace Architecture
The architectural ensemble of the Rdułtowski estate is a harmonious blend of symmetry, proportion, and classical design principles. The centerpiece of the ensemble is the elongated symmetrical palace building, approximately 140 meters in length. The central two-story block connects to single-story side wings, which smoothly transition into perpendicular two-story buildings. The layout is completed with single-story wings featuring pavilions, giving the structure a sense of enclosure and compositional completeness. This arrangement highlights the ceremonial nature of the palace and dominates the entire estate landscape.
The interiors of the palace are marked by austerity and simplicity, typical of late Neoclassicism. The ceilings and walls are devoid of stucco or painting, and the halls lack lavish decorative elements, emphasizing space and light. A particular highlight is the large tiled stove, which serves not only a practical purpose but also stands as a central ornamental feature in one of the halls.
The landscape park surrounding the palace was created following the principles of English landscape gardening. An artificial water basin was established on the grounds, connected to a system of canals. These formed several unusually shaped islands, overgrown with various shrubs and trees, creating a romantic atmosphere of seclusion and natural beauty. This location is especially captivating in the warmer months, which is when tours across the estate are most frequently conducted.
Tours with Palace Visits
Visiting the Snov Palace and Park Ensemble of the Rdułtowski Family is included in many tourist routes around Belarus. The tour from Minsk is particularly popular, offering a chance to explore the architectural features of the palace and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Although access to the interior is restricted due to the presence of a military unit, during the tour visitors can view the palace exterior, stroll through the former park, and see the canals, islands, and elements of 19th-century landscape design.
The tour program typically includes a guide’s narration about the Rdułtowski family history, the palace’s construction process, architectural details, and legends associated with the estate. Some tours are complemented by visits to other regional landmarks — churches, manors, natural attractions — making the trip more immersive and diverse.
You can book a tour with a palace visit on our website. We offer day tours from Minsk and other cities, including transportation, guide services, and leisure arrangements. Such tours around Belarus are not only a great way to spend a weekend but also an opportunity to connect with the country’s history, architecture, and culture.
