Spaso-Preobrazhensky church in Zaslavl

Zaslavl Transfiguration Church is one of the oldest churches in Belarus with a rich history. Founded in the 16th century as a Calvinist cathedral, it has changed its purpose and owners multiple times. Today, the church is active and attracts both pilgrims and tourists, serving as an important landmark of Zaslavl.

History of the Church

Originally, the Zaslavl Transfiguration Church was built in the second half of the 16th century as a Calvinist cathedral at the initiative of the owner of Zaslavl, Jan Hlebowicz. It was located within a fortified castle and had a defensive function. The famous Belarusian reformer Symon Budny preached here, and a school operated at the cathedral.

In 1628, the church was converted into St. Michael the Archangel’s Catholic Church and later handed over to the Dominican monastery. In 1678, a tower was added, the facades were renovated, and the loopholes were replaced with a decorative frieze. In 1833, the building was transferred to the Uniate Church, and in 1839, it became part of the Russian Orthodox Church.

After major repairs in 1864–1865, the church remained active until the 1930s, after which it was used as a warehouse. During World War II, it was damaged, and between 1968 and 1972, it was restored and converted into a museum. In the 1980s, it was returned to the Belarusian Exarchate, and after a fire in 1996, it was restored again. In 2015, the church received the status of the second cathedral of the Minsk Diocese.

Architectural Features of the Church

The Zaslavl Transfiguration Church is a pillarless, apseless, rectangular-shaped building, which is rare for Orthodox churches. Its interior was initially designed as a hall-type space without an altar or iconostasis, as it was originally built as a Calvinist cathedral.

The thick walls are topped with a high arcade frieze that once contained loopholes, emphasizing the defensive nature of the structure. The church itself has a massive, squat appearance, while a 30-meter tower rises in front of it, divided into six tiers, each originally equipped with loopholes.

Externally, the Transfiguration Church is decorated with vertical pilasters with rustication, giving it a strict and monumental appearance. Originally, the church was part of a fortified bastion castle and served as a last refuge for defenders, while the high tower likely functioned as a watchtower.

Legends and Mysteries of the Church

According to legend, the church is associated with the Zaslavsky princes, and for centuries, relics were hidden within its walls. Chronicles mention that underground passages beneath the church may have been used to store valuables during times of war. Those who love mysteries and history will find many intriguing secrets worth exploring here.

Excursions with a Visit to the Transfiguration Church

The Zaslavl Transfiguration Church is one of the oldest religious sites in Belarus, which can be visited as part of excursion tours from Minsk. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore ancient Zaslavl, its historical landmarks, and fortifications.

The church is included in the Ancient Zaslavl tour, dedicated to the history of the fortress town. It can also be visited as part of the Zaslavl – Krevo – Golshany route, which covers ancient castles and religious sites. Those interested in traditional crafts may enjoy the Zaslavl – Radoshkovichi (Ceramic Factory) tour, which includes a visit to the ceramic factory. History enthusiasts may opt for the Ancient Zaslavl – Stalin Line tour or the extended itinerary Minsk – Khatyn – Mound of Glory – Stalin Line – Zaslavl (2 days). Those who wish to learn more about traditional crafts may enjoy the Grinding Millstones: Zaslavl – Zhodishki tour.

Excursions around Belarus, including a visit to the Zaslavl Transfiguration Church, are available all year round. We recommend booking in advance to select a convenient date and route.