St. Dmitriy Church in Shchorsy

Church of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki in the village of Shchorsy is a monument of 18th-century Orthodox architecture and one of the most recognizable churches in the Grodno Region. Built between 1770 and 1776 at the initiative of Count Joachim Khreptovich, the church is a valuable example of the transition from Baroque to Classicism. It is included in the list of regional cultural heritage sites of Belarus and is part of popular tours around the Novogrudok District.

History

The first wooden church on this site was founded in 1386 by the Khreptovich family. It became famous for the miraculous icon of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki. After the temple was destroyed in the 18th century, Count Joachim Khreptovich commissioned the construction of a new stone church, which lasted from 1770 to 1776. The architectural project is attributed to foreign masters Giuseppe Sacco and Carlo Spampani, who worked at the court.

In the 19th century, the church served as a parish center and was renowned for its icon and rich reliquary collection. During the Soviet era, the church was closed and used as a warehouse and gym. In 1988, the building was returned to believers and gradually restored.

Architecture

The church is made of brick and has an elongated rectangular shape with a semicircular apse. The facade style combines elements of late Baroque and Classicism: tall arched windows, restrained decoration, and horizontal cornices. The main entrance is decorated with a high pediment, and above the nave rises a tower with an arched span. The arched gallery and symmetrical division of the facades give the church a resemblance to a “ship” — a motif typical for church architecture of that time.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Church of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki is an important center of Orthodox life in the region. Copies of the icons of the Tikhvin Mother of God and Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki, associated with miraculous legends, are preserved here. The church is a memorial to the Khreptovich family and retains a connection to the history of their estate in Shchorsy. It is also one of the landmarks of the Grodno Region, of interest to both pilgrims and lovers of architecture and history.

Excursions and Visiting

The church is open for worship services and welcomes tourist and pilgrimage groups. It is included in excursion routes around Shchorsy and nearby areas, where visitors can also explore the former Khreptovich estate, a library, and other 18th-century architectural monuments. It is a perfect destination for those interested in religious tourism in Belarus, as well as historic churches and noble estates.

On our portal, you can book a tour that includes a visit to the Church of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki in Shchorsy as part of an individual or group trip through the Novogrudok District.