Church of St. Michael in Chersk

The Church of St. Michael in the village of Chersk, Brest District, is a monument of wooden architecture from the early 18th century. This main religious building of the village is an active Orthodox church, recognized as a cultural heritage site of national importance and included in tourist routes across the Brest region.

History

The church was built no later than 1701 as a Uniate temple and later became Orthodox. In the 19th century, a narthex and a three-tiered bell tower were added to the main structure. Major renovations were carried out in 1898. After World War I, the church was closed but later returned to the Orthodox community. In the early 20th century, it was included in the State List of Historical and Cultural Values, and regular services resumed after postwar restoration.

Architecture

The building consists of a cube-shaped log structure and a pentagonal apse under a shared hipped roof. The narthex is a later addition with a high arched gallery and a three-tiered tented bell tower, which stands out in the composition. Inside, elements from the 18th–19th centuries remain, including a carved iconostasis and vaulted ceilings, reflecting traditional Polesian architecture.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The church serves as a spiritual center for the residents of Chersk and nearby villages. It reflects the transition from Uniatism to Orthodoxy, preserving a connection to 18th-century traditions. Today, the temple is known among admirers of ancient Belarusian wooden architecture and the religious heritage of the Brest region.

Excursions and Visiting

The church is open for services and external visits. It is included in guided tours around Brest District as an example of one of the oldest wooden churches. On our website, you can book an excursion tour that includes a visit to the Church of St. Michael in Chersk and other cultural and historical landmarks of the region.