Today, the settlement is a unique museum-reserve that attracts the attention of researchers, historians, and tourists. Here, visitors can see ancient buildings preserved thanks to a special conservation method, as well as artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations. Excursions in Belarus that include a visit to this site allow visitors to connect with history and learn how people lived a thousand years ago.
History of Creation
Berestye was first mentioned in the Hypatian Chronicle in 1019 as a fortified city on the border of Russian and Polish lands. However, its foundation is associated with the military campaigns of Prince Vladimir Svyatoslavich, who in 983 conquered the Yatvingian tribe inhabiting these lands. To secure the newly acquired territories, he built a fortified castle here. Later, the city played an important role in the conflicts between Russian princes, as evidenced by chronicles mentioning battles in this area, including the confrontation between Yaroslav the Wise and Prince Svyatopolk.
The name "Berestye" has several possible origins. One theory links it to the local elm species, which is called "berest" in the Polesie region. Another version suggests that the name comes from a legend about a wealthy merchant who, while traveling with his goods, built a road through a swamp, laying it with birch logs and covering it with birch bark. This place was called "Beresten," and later, Berestye.
Current State
The ancient Berestye settlement was discovered in 1968 on the territory of the Volyn Fortification of the Brest Fortress. During the 1969 excavations, archaeologists uncovered well-preserved remains of 17 residential and household structures, wooden pavements, and numerous household items. The uniqueness of Berestye’s buildings lies in their construction, with up to 12 log layers (venets), making them exceptional among Slavic archaeological finds. For instance, in Novgorod, a structure with five log layers was previously considered unique, whereas in Berestye, structures with preserved roof elements and doorways were found.
Among the discoveries in the cultural layer of the settlement are items that indicate a high level of craftsmanship, including tools, weapons, products made of non-ferrous metals, bone, and wood, as well as women's jewelry. Particularly interesting artifacts include a wooden comb with Old Slavonic letters, an ornate silver pendant, a wheel with a hub and axle, a woolen mitten, and many other items.
In 1971, the ancient Berestye settlement became the first site in the USSR to be preserved in field conditions. In 1982, an archaeological museum-reserve, "Berestye Settlement," was opened at the site. Under a massive glass dome, archaeological finds have been preserved and are now available for study and viewing. A walk through the museum transports visitors to the past, allowing them to see what residential quarters of the ancient city looked like.
Excursions with a Tour of the Settlement
Visiting the ancient Berestye settlement is a popular attraction for tourists and researchers. Excursions here provide insight into the history of Ancient Rus and offer a chance to see well-preserved artifacts. Excursions in Belarus include a tour of the museum-reserve exhibitions, featuring reconstructed houses from the 10th–11th centuries, household items, weapons, and jewelry.
For visitors from the capital, excursions from Minsk are available and can be booked in advance. These tours typically include a visit to the Brest Fortress and other significant sites in the region. Book a tour with a visit to the settlement on our website. Experienced guides will share the history of the city, its role in the Middle Ages, and fascinating facts about the artifacts found here.
A tour of the ancient Berestye settlement is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the past, learn what the ancient city looked like, how its residents lived, and what historical events took place on these lands.
