Belarus
History
Kievan Rus' appears in Belarus' historical record.
Belarusian lands were drawn into the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The Byelorussian SSR was established under Soviet rule.
Belarus declared independence as the Soviet Union dissolved.
Internationally recognised (dissolution of the Soviet Union).
The current constitution came into force, setting the basic framework for today's Belarus.
Part ofEuropeMore countries, cities and routes.Short facts
RegionEastern Europe
LanguageBelarusian, Russian
Time zoneFET (UTC+3)
Drives onRight
Worth seeing
- Bialowieza Forest: One of Europe's last primeval forests, shared with Poland, home to wild bison.
- Mir Castle: A stunning red-brick UNESCO fortress surrounded by a moat and gardens.
- Nesvizh Palace: A Baroque palace complex and residence of the Radziwill dynasty, UNESCO listed.
Find a city in Belarus
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MinskPlanning questions
What is Belarus known for?Bialowieza Forest, Mir Castle, Nesvizh Palace.
What is the capital?Minsk.
Which language is useful?Belarusian, Russian.
When is the national day?3 July.
Upcoming events
Belarus Independence Day3 Jul 2026 ยท BelarusUse Minsk as the first planning anchor for Belarus, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.
Food & drink
Draniki
KvassKnown for
Bialowieza ForestsharedPolandhome to wild bison.Mir Castlegardens.Nesvizh PalaceUNESCO listed.
Nature & places