Central (Alexander) Square

Central Square, also known as Alexandrovsky Square, is a cozy and significant historical site located in the very heart of Minsk. It is situated between the city’s main transport arteries — Independence Avenue and Karl Marx, Engels, and Krasnoarmeyskaya Streets. Nearby are the metro stations “Kupalauskaya” and “Kastrychnitskaya,” October Square, the Residence of the President of the Republic of Belarus, and the Central House of Officers. The square is an important part of the cultural and architectural ensemble of the city center. Among both locals and tourists, it is a popular place for relaxation, photography, and walks, especially during the warm season. Thanks to its convenient location and rich history, the square is often included in excursions around Belarus.

History

The history of Alexandrovsky Square dates back to the 19th century. In 1836, on the site of the old New Market, Minsk city mayor Leopold Delpac initiated the creation of a public square. This new green corner was named in honor of Saint Alexander Nevsky. Since then, the square became one of the city's first public parks, a place for meetings, strolls, and cultural events. In 1874, the unique city fountain “Boy with a Swan” appeared here, commemorating the launch of the city’s first water pipeline with clean artesian water. Another key historical event was the opening in 1890 of the city’s first theater on the southern edge of the square — today known as the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theater, one of the oldest and most esteemed theaters in Belarus. These features create a special atmosphere that makes the square a must-see destination on excursions from Minsk.

Landmarks of the Square

Central Square is rich in fascinating and memorable landmarks. First and foremost, attention is drawn to the “Boy with a Swan” fountain — one of Minsk’s iconic symbols. Its touching composition and historical value make it a must-see spot for photographs and storytelling by tour guides. Deeper in the square, there is a memorial plaque commemorating the tragic events of World War II — in 1942, Isai Kazinets, the secretary of the Minsk underground Communist Party committee, was executed here. This monument is frequently mentioned in patriotic tour routes.

Among the unusual attractions is the oldest public toilet in Minsk, preserved from pre-revolutionary times. Architects and historians consider it a true architectural curiosity. According to legend, it was built as an exact copy of Count Czapski’s palace as revenge by the architect for unpaid work. Despite its utilitarian function, this structure became a city legend and continues to spark interest among tourists during tours of Minsk.

Excursions with a Visit to the Square

Alexandrovsky Square is a regular stop on excursions around Belarus and the capital. It is featured in excursions from Minsk, including tours focused on architecture, cultural heritage, and city parks. Tour guides often stop here to share stories about the fountain, the underground resistance during the war, and the legend of Count Czapski. The square may also be included in walking tours, bus tours, and custom-tailored excursion programs. For those who want to learn more about Minsk and its history, it’s worth booking an excursion with a visit to Central Square through the Ekskursii.by website — the official portal offering a wide selection of guided tours with experienced professionals.