The History of the Monastery
The history of the church dates back to 1624 with the foundation of a Dominican monastery initiated by the magnate Krzysztof Chodkiewicz. Initially, the church was made of wood and dedicated to St. Hyacinth. In 1724, a stone church was built on the site of the wooden structure and named after St. Michael the Archangel. According to legend, St. Michael saved Navahrudak during the war between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Tsardom of Russia, and he has been especially venerated in the city ever since.
Architectural Features of the Church
St. Michael the Archangel Church is a three-nave basilica without a transept. The main façade is executed in late classicism style with elements of the Tuscan order. The central nave is covered with a barrel vault, and the interior is adorned with rich stucco and polychrome paintings. The church preserves ten altars, the main one dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, adorned with his icon in a silver frame.
The Monastery School — Center of Education
Since 1794, the monastery housed a school with six classes, where subjects such as arithmetic, history, mathematics, languages, and other sciences were taught. Among its students were Adam Mickiewicz and Jan Czeczot. In the 19th century, the monastery was closed, and its buildings were repurposed for administrative needs.
Modern Condition and Restoration
In the 20th century, the church was closed and used as a warehouse. In 1992, it was returned to the Catholic community. After a long restoration, it was reopened for parishioners in 1997. Today, the church is an active place of worship and an important site for excursions around Belarus.
Excursions to Navahrudak — A Journey into History
St. Michael the Archangel Church is a popular site for tourist routes in Belarus. An excursion from Minsk to Navahrudak offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an ancient city, learn its rich history, and visit one of the most important architectural landmarks in the country. Book an excursion and visit St. Michael the Archangel Church as part of these tours: Excursion Dorogoy zamkov: Mir — Navahrudak — Lida, Excursion Art and Craft (Navahrudak — Berezovka), Excursion In the Footsteps of Adam Mickiewicz.
