The history of the fortress and its role in defending the city
Castle Hill in Mstislavl is not just a hill but a place where one of the oldest cities in Belarus originated nearly nine centuries ago. A powerful castle once stood here, surrounded by a ring-shaped rampart and a moat filled with water. The only entrance to the fortress was via a drawbridge, making it almost impregnable. Many invaders tried to seize this citadel, but its walls steadfastly withstood sieges.
Archaeological findings – evidence of the past
In 1959, archaeological excavations began on Castle Hill, revealing valuable 12th-century artifacts. Among them were jewelry, weapons, glass and metal items, and a birch-bark manuscript—one of the oldest in Belarus. A particularly intriguing discovery was a glass goblet with an Arabic inscription, proving that ancient Mstislavl was a crossroads of trade routes and cultural exchanges.
Medieval festivals and historical atmosphere
Today, Castle Hill is not only a historical monument but also a center of medieval culture. The annual "Knight's Fest" festival is held here, featuring spectacular tournaments, battle reenactments, and an immersive medieval atmosphere. This makes the Mstislavl settlement one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belarus.
Kahalny Well – a living legacy of the past
At the foot of Castle Hill lies the famous Kahalny Well, also known as "Zdorovets." For centuries, it provided the city with clean drinking water, as the geological conditions made it impossible to dig wells within the city itself. In the past, water from this source was distributed throughout Mstislavl by horse-drawn carts. Additionally, in ancient times, it helped fill the moat surrounding the fortress, becoming an essential part of the city's defensive system.
Excursions to Castle Hill – the Mstislavl settlement
Excursions from Minsk to Mstislavl offer a unique opportunity to see architectural monuments and uncover the secrets of the ancient settlement where the history of this old Belarusian city began.
Visiting Castle Hill is included in excursion programs dedicated to exploring eastern Belarus. During a journey along the Mstislavl-Pustynki route, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient city and visit one of the region's most famous monasteries. For those who enjoy extensive tours, the Mogilev-Mstislavl (2 days) route offers the chance to explore the majestic architectural monuments of Mogilev and stroll through the historic streets of Mstislavl.
Visiting Castle Hill and experiencing the legends of the past is possible by embarking on an exciting tour of Belarus. You can book a tour that includes a visit to the Mstislavl settlement in advance and discover the fascinating world of this ancient city at a convenient date and time.
