Church of Prechistenskaya in Sherbin

Church of the Holy Virgin in the village of Shebryn, Brest District, is one of the most remarkable shrines of southern Belarus. The majestic building rising on the bank of the Mukhavets River blends harmoniously into the scenic natural landscape and preserves profound spiritual and historical heritage. The church is among the sites recommended for visiting as part of an individual tour from Minsk.

History

The history of the church dates back to the 16th century. In 1518, Bishop Julian Falkowski of Lutsk and Brest donated a generous estate — six valoks of land (approximately 128 hectares) — to the Shebryn church. However, the original building has not survived. The current brick church was erected in 1793 in the classical style as a Uniate temple. After the Polotsk Council of 1839, it was transferred to the Orthodox Church. Over two centuries, the church has endured wars, repressions, and even an attempt to demolish it — yet it still stands and welcomes the faithful today.

Architecture

The church impresses with its thoughtful architectural design. The building, over 10 meters high, is uniquely oriented — the altar faces south. Inside, special niches enhance the acoustics, allowing sound to resonate throughout the hall. Above the vestibule, second-floor galleries were once used by the local nobility during services. The interior is symmetrically arranged: on the left side are icons of female saints, on the right — male saints. Especially revered were the icon of the Vilnius Mother of God and a gilded silver cross donated by Count Muravyov. Unfortunately, these relics have not survived.

Excursions

The Shebryn Church of the Nativity can be included in the itinerary of an individual tour from Minsk, which we will gladly tailor to your preferences. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in spiritual heritage and discover a rare example of Belarusian classicism in a rural setting. The location is especially appealing to those who value sacred places with a dramatic past. You can book a tour that includes visiting the Shebryn church and other landmarks in the region, combining spiritual and cultural exploration in a rich one-day experience.