Handsome Grodno on the high bank of the Neman has the status of a city - a monument of architecture and urban planning. Miraculously survived during the Second World War, its architectural ensembles of different centuries and styles have remained almost intact. The atmosphere of bygone eras has left marks on every stone. Monasteries, churches and palaces are striking in their beauty at any time of the year, but they are especially good in winter dress. And Christmas in Grodno, in the most beautiful city of Belarus, will seem like a magical dream.
Multinational Belarus can serve as an example of religious tolerance and respect for the traditions and rituals of all its citizens. And although Christmas is officially recognized in it on January 7th, the Catholics of Belarus celebrate it on December 25th. On the same day, Kolyady begins for the Orthodox. The mummers walk the streets singing their traditional songs. A Jew, a goat and a bear must be present in their company. In the absence of animals, someone is dressed up in them. In this rite, Christian traditions are harmoniously intertwined with pagan ones. The ancient Slavs celebrated the days of the solstice with such a ceremony, driving away evil spirits with the noise and ringing of bells. But now, at the head of the procession, they carry a rod with the star of Bethlehem. And the ringing of bells, coming from all churches, announces the birth of Christ. The eve of the Orthodox holiday of Christmas coincides with the Day of the Three Kings among Catholics. And on this day, three kings are passing through the city. In fact, they were magicians, and astrologers, who first saw the sign of the birth of Christ and brought him gifts. But in Grodno, the city of kings and royal palaces, the "holiday of the three kings" sounds somehow more appropriate.
sights
The center of the old city is so beautiful and overflowing with architectural masterpieces of all centuries, starting from the 12th century, that it is impossible to refuse a tour of it. On the main square of the city stands the Cathedral of St. Francis Xavier of the 17-18th century, also known as the Farny Church, the most exquisite church in Grodno, its doors are open to everyone from morning to late evening.
The ensemble of the Brigittock Monastery and the Cathedral of the Annunciation, as well as the Bernardine Monastery and the Church of the Discovery of the Holy Cross are extraordinarily beautiful. And there are many more interesting things in this city that you will certainly want to see:
- Pharmacy Museum
- Great choral synagogue
- Kasya and Basya water towers
- Borisoglebskaya (Kolozha) Church
- Lower Church 12th century
- 16th century old castle
- Nativity of the Theotokos monastery
What to bring from Grodno
The best souvenirs from Grodno are products made of thin Belarusian flax, an exquisite gift that is very consistent with the appearance of the city itself, elegant and noble. Handmade leather goods, notebooks, business card holders, key holders and other accessories are also good.
But the most valuable thing that is taken away from Grodno is an unforgettable image of the proud and aristocratic city of kings.
