Monument K.K.Ostrozhskiy

In the center of the ancient town of Turov stands a monument to Konstantin Konstantinovich Ostrogski—a prominent statesman, prince, and defender of the Orthodox faith. The monument was erected in 1998 and has become a significant site for tourists interested in the history of Belarus.

Konstantin Ostrogski — Patron of Orthodoxy and Education

Konstantin Ostrogski (1526–1608) was one of the most influential princes of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. As the Voivode of Kyiv, he actively defended Orthodoxy during the Union of Brest, contributed to the development of education, and founded the Ostroh Printing House, where the first printers Ivan Fedorov and Pyotr Mstislavets worked. He also supported scholars, established schools, and published books, making him a distinguished patron of his time.

The Prince’s Life Path: From Turov to Historical Events

Konstantin Ostrogski was born in Turov and received a worthy Orthodox upbringing there. His possessions covered vast territories in Podolia, Galicia, and Volhynia—around 300 cities and several thousand villages. Historians claim that he took part in power struggles during the Time of Troubles, supporting False Dmitry I.

The Tragedy of His Final Years

The end of the prince’s life was overshadowed by personal tragedies: his sons Ivan and Alexander converted to Catholicism, while his youngest son was poisoned. Historical sources vary on whether the prince himself contributed to his children’s change of faith.

Description of the Monument to Konstantin Ostrogski

The monument to the prince is made of granite, with an inscription in Belarusian on the plaque: “By the grace of God, Konstantin, baptized Vasiliy, Prince Ostrogski, a faithful son of the Holy Orthodox Church. Born in Turov in 1527. Passed away in Ostroh on 13(26).02.1608.” This monument is an important historical landmark that attracts tourists eager to delve deeper into the history of Turov and its notable figures.