«The Hypation Chronicle» (1019) reported Berestye as large, well-fortified city at the turn of Russian and Polish lands.
In the «Tale of Bygone Years», the city is mentioned in connection with the battle of the Prince Yaroslav, the prince Svyatopolk.
It is believed that the name comes from the local rock elm - bark.
The Settlement of the ancient Berestie was discovered in 1968 on the territory of Volyn strengthening of the fortress. With the help of archaeological excavations in 1969 discovered the remains of 17 dwellings and farm buildings, plank bridges, and various household items.
In 1971 the old fort Berestie the first time was preserved in the field in the Soviet Union. At the beginning of 1982 the archaeological museum «Beresteyskaya mound» is opened under a huge glass dome .