Zhirovichi Holy Cross Church

Žyrovičy Exaltation of the Cross Church is not just a temple but one of the most unique religious structures in Belarus. Built in 1769, it combines the architectural elegance of late Baroque with profound spiritual symbolism linked to the tradition of pilgrimage to Jerusalem. This Calvary church has become a place of prayer for thousands of believers and continues to amaze visitors with its history and structure.

Main feature of the church

The main feature of the church is a unique staircase, a replica of the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa) from the Lateran Basilica in Rome. This staircase, occupying half of the interior space, led to the altar, creating a visual effect of depth and grandeur. According to ancient tradition, pilgrims ascended its 28 steps on their knees while reciting prayers. Each step once contained relics of saints, which were later transferred to the Dormition Cathedral of the monastery.

Architectural features and frescoes

Despite its small size (12×25 m), the Exaltation of the Cross Church impresses with the harmony of its architectural solutions. Large windows filled the interior with light, while the altar’s end wall was painted with perspective frescoes, creating an illusion of depth. The side walls were adorned with frescoes depicting angels and Gospel scenes. Unfortunately, these frescoes were lost during the Soviet era, but archival photographs preserve evidence of their beauty.

Church history: from monastery to Catholic parish

The Exaltation of the Cross Church was built with funds donated by Eleanor Holovshchyna, a court official from Pinsk, who contributed 8,000 zlotys for its construction. In 1919, after Žyrovičy became part of Poland, the church was taken from the monastery and converted into a parish Catholic church. It was only returned to the Orthodox community in 1945.

Modern state and restoration

In 1999, worship services resumed in the church, and in 2004, a new iconostasis was restored and consecrated. Today, visitors can see three restored frescoes: “Christ Carrying the Cross,” “The Finding of the Life-Giving Cross by Saint Helena,” and “The Resurrection of the Savior.” The church also has its first bell tower, although instead of bells, metal clappers were used.

Excursions with a visit to the Žyrovičy Exaltation of the Cross Church

This church is a rare example of 18th-century architectural and spiritual traditions with no analogs in Belarus. Travelers interested in Orthodoxy, history, and culture will find not only a unique architectural site but also an atmosphere of serenity and prayer.

The highlight of an excursion from Minsk to the Žyrovičy Dormition Monastery is a visit to the Exaltation of the Cross Church – the only church in Belarus with a replica of the Holy Stairs from Rome, which pilgrims ascended with prayers. The interior, featuring restored frescoes, creates a striking illusion of depth.

This journey offers an opportunity to connect with ancient sacred sites and discover new aspects of Orthodox history and Belarusian architecture. Book an excursion across Belarus today and uncover the secrets of Žyrovičy!