Church of Intercession in Habovichi

Pokrovskaya Church in the village of Khabovichi (Kobrin District, Brest Region) is a wooden Orthodox architectural monument built in 1899 and included in the State List of Historical and Cultural Values of Belarus. It is one of the few surviving churches from the late 19th century in the region, where services are still held today.

History

The first church in Khabovichi was built in 1854, after the previous church burned down in 1846. The new Pokrovskaya Church was constructed in 1899 and has since become the spiritual center of the village. Despite the historical challenges of the 20th century, the church survived, was not closed, and continues to fulfill its religious function.

Architecture

The church is a three-part wooden building in the traditional style of folk architecture of Polesia. Its architecture is characterized by simplicity and harmonious proportions, with facades decorated with carved decorative elements. Inside the church, rare 18th–19th-century icons have been preserved, including images of the Vilnius Martyrs, Saint George the Victorious, and Saint Onuphrius.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Throughout its history, Pokrovskaya Church has remained an active place of worship and a spiritual support for the residents of Khabovichi and neighboring villages. The church has survived changes in eras and political regimes, preserving not only the building but also the parish tradition. It remains a center of spiritual life and cultural heritage in the region.

Excursions

Pokrovskaya Church in Khabovichi is a significant landmark of Brest Region and an example of folk wooden church architecture. This active Orthodox church with rare 18th–19th-century icons is included in sightseeing routes across Belarusian Polesia and is popular among pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts. A visit to the church is possible as part of group tours or individually, with departures from Minsk, Brest, and other cities.