Podorosk homestead

In a picturesque corner of the Vawkavysk District, just 85 kilometers from Hrodna, lies the Podoroska Estate — a rare example of a Belarusian noble residence that has preserved the spirit of its era. The estate complex, surrounded by an old park and remnants of a stone fence, has been gradually reviving in recent years. Thanks to the efforts of new owners, abandoned buildings are gaining new life — a museum, a hotel with a campsite, a roadside service area, and even a restored blacksmith's shop are planned here.

History

The history of the Podoroska estate dates back to the 16th century, when the land belonged to the ancient Belarusian noble family of Klochko. Over time, the estate passed through the hands of various owners: the Dolski, Grabowski, Pukhalski, Chechot, and finally the Bokhvits. One of the most notable figures in its history was Roman Bokhvits — a participant in the Kalinouski uprising and a reformer who freed his peasants even before the official abolition of serfdom and introduced modern agricultural technologies. Under his leadership, a mill and a distillery were built, and the estate became a center of agrarian innovation. The manor housed a rich library, a collection of weapons, and a family archive — all of which made it a cultural and intellectual hub of the region.

Architecture and Exhibitions

The central building of the estate is a one-story house with a mezzanine, built in the late Classicist style according to the design of architect Lubu from Vilnius. It once featured an enfilade layout and a well-designed heating system. The territory is surrounded by a stone fence with preserved wrought iron gates. The old stable, blacksmith shop, service buildings, and even a former cattle shed by the river are gradually being restored and adapted for new purposes. The estate is encircled by a 19th-century park, divided into parterre and landscape zones, with century-old maples, lindens, and birches. In the 1970s, this park served as a filming location for the movie “Rudobelskaya Respublika,” which featured prominent Soviet actors.

Excursions

Today, the Podoroska Estate is becoming an increasingly popular destination for excursions around Belarus. Visitors can explore unique architectural sites, immerse themselves in the history of the local nobility, stroll along shaded alleys of the historic park, visit the restored blacksmith’s workshop, the future museum, or a shop offering authentic goods. Thanks to its convenient location and engaging program, the estate is easy to include in custom excursions from Minsk. It is an ideal place for those who want to book an excursion with a guided tour of living history and inspiring cultural heritage.