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National Library of Belarus
The National Library – a symbol of knowledge and modern Belarus. The National Library of Belarus is the country’s hallmark. Today, it is not only the largest book collection but also a multifunctional center combining advanced technologies, modern design, and unique architecture. Guided tours of the National Library offer an opportunity to explore this remarkable "Belarusian diamond" from within.
History of the National Library
The history of Belarus’ main library began in 1922 when it was founded as the library of the Belarusian State University. Initially, its collection consisted of 60,000 items. In 1926, it became an independent institution and received its own building designed by the famous Belarusian architect Georgy Lavrov. During World War II, the library lost a significant portion of its collection, but it began its revival in the postwar years.
Modern Building: An Architectural Masterpiece
The new library building project was selected in 1989 during an all-Union competition. Architects Viktor Kramarenko and Mikhail Vinogradov proposed a unique rhombicuboctahedron shape, symbolizing the value of knowledge. Construction began in 2002, and the grand opening took place on June 16, 2006.
The National Library of Belarus is located in the park area of the Slepyanskaya water-green system. A bronze statue of Francysk Skaryna, the first Belarusian printer, stands in front of the entrance.
Guided Tours of the National Library
The National Library offers a variety of tours for visitors. Popular options include a general tour with a visit to the Book Museum and a thematic tour "Minsk at a Glance" with access to the observation deck. Children’s tours and birthday celebrations at the library are particularly popular.
The National Library Today
Today, the National Library is a modern information and cultural center with a collection of over 9 million items. Visitors have access to printed editions, old books, rare manuscripts, maps, dissertations, and electronic resources.
Group excursions - National Library of Belarus
| Date | Tour | More places | Price adult | Price child up to 18 years | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 19-May (Monday) | Minsk city tour | Available seats: +8 | 1'609 ₽ | 1'475 ₽ | Book | |
| 18:00 20-May (Tuesday) | Evening Minsk | Available seats: +17 | 1'609 ₽ | 1'475 ₽ | Book | |
| 18:00 22-May (Thursday) | Evening Minsk | Available seats: +40 | 1'609 ₽ | 1'475 ₽ | Book | |
| 10:00 23-May (Friday) | Minsk city tour | Available seats: +33 | 1'609 ₽ | 1'475 ₽ | Book | |
| 10:00 24-May (Saturday) | Minsk city tour | Available seats: +15 | 1'609 ₽ | 1'475 ₽ | Book |
Individual and corporate excursions - National Library of Belarus
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Minsk - Dudutki - Mir - Nesvizh - Brest - Belovezhskaya puscha (3 days)
- Dates on request
- Duration: 3 day
- excursions according to the program
- meeting/seeing off at the train station
- certified guide services
- transport services
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Minsk city tour
- Dates on request
- Duration: 3 hours
- certified guide services
- transport services
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Evening Minsk
- Dates on request
- Duration: 3 hours
- certified guide services
- transport services
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Minsk - Dudutki
- Dates on request
- Duration: 8 hours 30 min.
- certified guide services
- transport services
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Minsk - Hatyn - Barrow of Glory
- Dates on request
- Duration: 9 hours
- certified guide services
- transport services
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Minsk - The National Library
- Dates on request
- Duration: 5 hours
- certified guide services
- transport services