State Department Store

Main Universal Store (GUM) is one of the largest and oldest shopping centers in Minsk. It is located in the very center of the city and occupies over 6,500 square meters of retail space. GUM offers a wide variety of goods, including clothing, footwear, accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, souvenirs, household items, and much more. More than 20,000 customers visit the store daily, making it an important center of commerce and city life.

For the convenience of visitors, cozy cafes and bars operate where you can grab a bite while shopping. Additional free and paid services are also available, including gift wrapping, dry cleaning, and clothing repair. GUM is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

GUM is not only a shopping destination but also a landmark of Minsk, interesting from both historical and architectural perspectives. Therefore, tours around Belarus and a tour from Minsk often include it in their programs.

History of Construction

GUM was built in 1951 according to the design of architects Friedrich Geghardt and Leonid Milega. This building became a symbol of Minsk’s post-war reconstruction and one of the first major commercial establishments of the Soviet period.

After World War II, the city was almost completely destroyed, and its reconstruction followed the monumental Stalinist classicism style. The department store was conceived as a central commercial facility that would not only serve as a shopping place but also as an architectural adornment of the city. Since its opening, it quickly gained popularity among residents and visitors of Minsk and has remained significant in the capital’s retail sector for decades.

Architecture of the Building

GUM is a striking example of Stalinist classicism—an architectural style that shaped the appearance of post-war Minsk. This monumental building features a symmetrical composition, massive columns, strict geometric lines, and rich decor.

The main facade is adorned with massive pilasters and stucco moldings, characteristic of mid-20th-century architecture. The interior space is organized to provide maximum convenience for shoppers: wide staircases, spacious retail halls, and high ceilings create a sense of grandeur and openness.

Due to its architectural design, GUM is not just a shopping facility but also a significant part of Minsk’s cultural heritage. That is why tours around Belarus dedicated to architecture and history often include a visit to this building.

Tours with a Building Overview

GUM is one of the key landmarks of Minsk, interesting not only from a commercial perspective but also as a historical and architectural monument. Many tourist routes dedicated to city attractions include this famous department store.

You can book a tour featuring a visit to GUM and learn more about its history, architectural features, and role in Minsk’s life. During the tour, the guide will share information about the building’s construction, its significance in the post-war history of the city, and interesting details of the facade and interior design.

If you are planning a tour from Minsk or tours around Belarus, GUM can be one of the stops on your route, along with other key landmarks of the capital. This is especially interesting for those who appreciate Soviet architecture and want to see the best examples of the monumental style of the mid-20th century.