Church of «Joy of All Who Sorrow»

The Church of the Icon of the Mother of God «Joy of All Who Sorrow», located in the urban settlement of Sharkovshchina in the Vitebsk Region, is an outstanding example of religious architecture from the late 19th century. It belongs to the group of churches built in the retrospective Russian style and retains a unique atmosphere of spirituality and historical memory. The brick building stands out with its bright appearance, featuring a harmonious combination of red and white decorative elements.

History

Before the current church was built, a wooden one had stood on this site since 1841. In 1898, a new stone church was constructed in its place, preserving the traditional appearance of an Orthodox temple. During the Second World War, the building was damaged, and in the post-war years, it lost its religious function: in 1948, it was repurposed as a community club, and later as a store. Only in 1990, thanks to the efforts of local authorities and parishioners, the sacred site was returned to the faithful, restored, and re-consecrated.

Architecture

The church's architectural design follows the retrospective Russian style. Its structure consists of four main parts: a two-tier bell tower in the shape of an octagon on a square base topped with a tented roof; a vestibule; the main cubic volume covered by a four-pitched roof with a small onion dome on an octagonal drum; and a semicircular apse. Characteristic decorative elements include arcature and keel-shaped arches, which emphasize the historical style of the building.

Excursions

The Church of the Icon «Joy of All Who Sorrow» in Sharkovshchina can be included in a custom private tour from Minsk, which we will be happy to design in a convenient format tailored to your interests. This tour offers an opportunity not only to explore the church’s unique history and architecture, but also to book a personalized excursion from Minsk with visits to other noteworthy locations in the town of Sharkovshchina. During the trip, you'll learn about the church’s complex past, its restoration, and its significance to the local Orthodox community.