Homestead in Zhemyslavl

Zhemyslavl Estate is one of the most picturesque historical sites in Belarus. This magnificent palace and park complex is located in the Grodno region, in the village of Zhemyslavl, and attracts tourists with its refined architecture, mysterious atmosphere, and rich history.

Architecture and Interior Design of the Estate

Zhemyslavl Estate is a two-storey palace with a T-shaped layout and a clearly defined symmetrical composition. The building is crowned with a massive cubic belvedere featuring wide arched stained-glass windows. In the central part of the main façade there is a rectangular risalit with a loggia, while the courtyard side is accentuated by a four-column portico. On both sides of the loggia there are rectangular entrances with balconies above them. Low annexes with open terraces adjoin the main volume from the end sides. Corinthian order columns are used in the façade design.

The palace interiors have not survived to the present day.
From the courtyard façade, its strict symmetry and architectural expressiveness are especially evident.

The palace is surrounded by a partially preserved landscape park laid out in 1883. The project was designed by the French gardener James, invited from the Tyszkiewicz estate in Verkiai.

History of the Zhemyslavl Estate

In 1807, Zhemyslavl became the property of Jakub Umastowski. Throughout the 19th century, members of this family actively developed and expanded their estate. As early as 1828, his son Kazimir supplemented the wooden manor house with two brick wings featuring columned porticos in the Classical style. At the same time, an icehouse barn, an orangery, and a riding arena were built on the grounds (the latter two structures have not survived).

In 1877, at the initiative of Kazimir’s wife, Józefa, a palace was constructed, its architectural design inspired by the Łazienki Palace in Warsaw. Later, in 1885, a distillery was established at the estate.

At the end of the 19th century, their son Władysław Umastowski transferred the ancestral estate for the needs of Vilnius University, where a research base was organized.
During the First World War, Zhemyslavl was occupied by the Kaiser’s army; the Germans set up a sanatorium for wounded soldiers and officers within the estate complex. In the Soviet period, the palace served as an administrative building, housing the management board of a collective farm.

The Park and Surrounding Landscape

An integral part of the estate is the historic park, designed in the English style. Here, visitors can stroll among centuries-old trees, admire picturesque ponds, and enjoy the tranquility. It is an ideal location for nature lovers and those seeking to capture beautiful photographs against the backdrop of historical ruins.

Excursions to the Estate

Excursions to Zhemyslavl Estate offer a chance to see one of the most mysterious noble residences in Belarus. Tourists can join excursions from Minsk to explore the architectural heritage of the 18th and 19th centuries, immerse themselves in the history of the noble era, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the historic park.

During a Belarus tour that includes a visit to Zhemyslavl Estate, visitors can learn about its former owners—the noble Umiastowski family—explore the surviving fragments of the palace and outbuildings, and take a walk through the park with its ancient trees. The itinerary is often complemented by visits to other attractions in the region.

Such excursions from Minsk are a great choice for history and architecture enthusiasts. Booking a tour in advance allows visitors to select a convenient date and program, providing an opportunity to discover yet another historical gem of Belarus.