History of Creation
The history of the estate in Zheludok is closely tied to the fate of one of the oldest aristocratic families of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth — the Svyatopolk-Chetvertinsky princes. The village of Zheludok belonged to this family since the late 18th century, but the estate flourished in the early 20th century. In 1907, Prince Vladimir Svyatopolk-Chetvertinsky decided to build a new palace here, which was meant to symbolize the family's wealth, status, and refined taste.
To bring this idea to life, he invited the renowned Italian architect Vladislav Marconi, who worked in Warsaw and Saint Petersburg. He designed the palace in the Art Nouveau style, which at the time was considered the most advanced and prestigious architectural trend. The construction employed the latest technologies and materials, with craftsmen from Poland and Italy involved. As a result, a refined two-story palace with spacious halls, high ceilings, stained glass, and decorative elements appeared on the estate grounds.
After the revolutionary events and the change of power, the estate, like many other noble properties, was nationalized. During the Soviet period, the palace lost its original function. From the second half of the 20th century, an air defense military unit of the USSR was stationed on the complex’s grounds, restricting access to the estate. In 2005, the territory was transferred to the jurisdiction of the KGB of the Republic of Belarus and has remained closed since then. Nevertheless, during excursions around Belarus, tourists can view the palace from the outside, walk around the surroundings, and learn the fascinating history of this site.
Architecture of the Complex
The main feature of the estate ensemble is the two-story palace designed in the Art Nouveau style. The building’s architecture is distinguished by elegant forms, fluid lines, and a wealth of decorative details. The facades are adorned with stucco, balconies with wrought iron railings, arched windows, and decorative cornices. The central entrance is emphasized by a portal with curved columns, highlighting the grandeur of the composition. The palace walls are clad in light-colored stone, giving the building a sense of lightness and airiness.
Inside the palace were spacious halls, grand staircases, drawing rooms with fireplaces, and a study area. Of particular note were the winter garden, the greenhouse, and the exquisite library, which housed hundreds of rare editions.
The wing and utility buildings were functional, yet harmonized with the complex’s overall style. Storage areas and service quarters were located at a significant distance from the palace, preserving the aesthetic of the space. All of this provides a complete impression of the lifestyle of the Belarusian nobility. The architectural integrity and uniqueness of the complex make it an important site on tours around Belarus.
Excursions to the Palace and Park Complex
Visits to the Svyatopolk-Chetvertinsky Palace and Park Complex are included in several tourist routes organized across Grodno Oblast. Excursions from Minsk are particularly popular. During the trip, tourists have the opportunity not only to see the palace but also to learn about its history, architectural features, and to stroll through the park and adjacent utility buildings.
Despite limited access to the interior of the complex, tour guides provide fascinating information about the Svyatopolk-Chetvertinsky family, the construction, and the fate of the estate throughout various historical periods. Tourists can take memorable photos, enjoy the natural landscapes and architecture, and gain deeper insight into the life of the Belarusian aristocracy.
On the portal ekskursii.by, you can book a tour of the complex in Zheludok. It is a great opportunity to spend a day filled with culture and discovery, exploring one of the gems of Belarusian cultural heritage.
