History
The belfry was constructed next to the wooden Church of the Holy Virgin, which was built in 1760. This church once housed a significant spiritual and cultural artifact — the Shereshevo Gospel from the 16th century, which is now part of the collection of the National Art Museum of Belarus. Unfortunately, the church itself has not survived, but the separately standing belfry endured, making it a priceless witness to the past. Since 1990, the structure has been under conservation and state protection.
Architecture
The belfry is a two-tiered square structure with elements of classicism, reflecting influences of Polish, Carpathian, and local architectural schools of the 16th–18th centuries. The lower tier is built using the “dovetail notch” log construction technique, while the upper tier is frame-built. Each level has its own roof: the lower has a hipped roof, and the upper is topped with a shingled tented roof and a hexagonal drum with a dome. One of the most distinctive architectural features of the belfry is the “prichelok” — a decorative element separating the two tiers. The lack of ornate decoration emphasizes the strictness of its form while giving the building a unique elegance.
Excursions
An excursion from Minsk to the Shereshevo belfry is a rare opportunity to experience authentic Belarusian wooden architecture. This site can be visited as part of an individual tour tailored to your interests. You can book a private excursion from Minsk that includes the belfry, and also combine the trip with a visit to Belovezhskaya Pushcha — one of the most famous national parks in the country, located just a few kilometers away. This journey will be a true discovery for lovers of history, architecture, and nature.
