Historical buildings st. Orzeszkowa

Eliza Orzeszkowa Street is one of the most recognizable and significant streets in Grodno, located in the city center. It connects the Railway Station Square with Lenin Square, stretching for about 1 kilometer. This is more than just a street — it is a true chronicle of the city, filled with architectural landmarks, the atmosphere of past centuries, and names that left their mark on history. The street is named after the famous Polish writer Eliza Orzeszkowa, who lived here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

History

The earliest mentions of this road date back to the 14th century — at that time it led from Grodno through the princely village of Gorodnitsa towards Vertelishki, the ancestral estate of David of Grodno. In the 18th century, the street became the main artery of the Gorodnitsa suburb, and its original names (Raskosha, Ezerskaya, Sadovaya, Basnyatskaya) reflect its rich and layered history. During the rule of Antoni Tyzenhaus, the area saw planned development: typical residential buildings for craftsmen, taverns, a medical school, and other public facilities appeared here.

From the 1860s, after the construction of the Saint Petersburg–Warsaw railway, the street became a major transportation route. Since 1920, it has borne the name of Eliza Orzeszkowa. In the 20th century, the street underwent many changes: it was damaged during the war and partially rebuilt in the 1960s–1980s. However, it still preserves its historical core and a number of unique architectural landmarks.

Architecture

The architectural heritage of Orzeszkowa Street is a blend of eras and styles. Notable landmarks include:

• Bosniak Houses — the first examples in Belarus of typical residential construction from the late 18th century for foreign craftsmen. These buildings combine a wooden structure with a brick facade facing the street.
• Craftsmen’s House (also known as the “master’s house”, built in 1771) — a one-story building with a stone front and wooden walls, constructed under the Tyzenhaus plan.
• Eliza Orzeszkowa House — a modern reconstruction of the house where the writer lived from 1894 to 1910. Unfortunately, the original structure was not preserved.

Excursions

A walk along Orzeszkowa Street is a must when exploring historic Grodno. As part of an individual tour from Minsk to Grodno, you can stroll down this picturesque street, learn about its outstanding buildings, hear stories about the craftsmen who built them, and about the writer whose name it bears. We offer the opportunity to book a private tour from Minsk, tailored to your interests — be it architecture, city history, or literary heritage.

Orzeszkowa Street is part of a route that covers the key landmarks of Grodno, including the Old and New Castles, the Farny Catholic Church, the synagogue, and the Tyzenhaus ensemble. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to experience the unique spirit of Grodno.