History
The Bernardine Monastery was founded in 1624 by brothers Andrzej and Jan Kęsowski. Initially, the church was wooden, but it burned down in a fire in 1644. Just eight years later, stone buildings appeared in its place: the monastery wing and the Church of Saint Joseph, the Chosen One of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The complex repeatedly suffered from fires in 1656, 1740, and 1835, but it was rebuilt each time. The most significant transformation occurred in 1752 when the building acquired baroque features. In the 18th–19th centuries, the monastery occupied an entire block, including a school, hospital, brewery, and other utility structures. In 1864, the monastery was closed, and in the 20th century, its interior decoration and burial grounds were destroyed. In the 1980s, the building was restored and later converted into a hotel.
Architecture
The architectural image of the monastery evolved over several centuries. Its core includes the church and the brotherhood building, forming an enclosed courtyard. The complex was surrounded by a massive stone wall with a central gate facing the main entrance. The Church of Saint Joseph was originally decorated with nine gilded altars, carvings, and paintings. There was also a school and a rich library. After renovations in the mid-18th century, the architecture took on distinct baroque traits. Today, the building houses the "Monastyrski" hotel, but its appearance, interiors, and decorative elements remain an interesting subject to explore during tours across Belarus.
Excursions
The Bernardine Monastery Complex is a must-see location on many tours across Belarus. It is featured in sightseeing routes around Minsk and thematic excursions focused on the spiritual and architectural history of the capital. You can book a guided tour of this site both individually or as part of a group. Experienced guides will share secrets of monastic life, legends related to the church, and reveal hidden architectural details. This is a great opportunity not only to learn something new but also to feel the atmosphere of old Minsk.
