Former Navagrudak gymnasium building

The Building of the Former Novogrudok Gymnasium is a historical landmark closely connected with the development of Belarusian education in the early 20th century. Located in the center of Novogrudok, it became a place where several generations of outstanding Belarusian figures were educated.

History

The Novogrudok Belarusian Gymnasium was founded on May 25, 1919. Its first director was Jan Tsechanowski, elected by the students’ parents. Initially, the gymnasium was not entirely Belarusian-speaking, and education was conducted under a humanities program with a focus on language studies. In addition to Belarusian, Polish, French, German, and Latin were taught. Over time, the institution began to emphasize natural and mathematical sciences to meet the needs of the predominantly rural student body.
In 1934, Polish authorities closed the gymnasium, but after Western Belarus joined the BSSR in 1939, it was reopened thanks to the efforts of Boris Kit, who became its director. Even during the years of German occupation, the gymnasium continued to function, making it a unique educational institution of its time. In 2008, a museum dedicated to Boris Kit was opened in the building.

Architecture

The building of the former Novogrudok Gymnasium is a significant historical site associated with the development of Belarusian education. It is located in the center of Novogrudok and is one of the city's main attractions. Today, the museum dedicated to Boris Kit and the history of the gymnasium is open here. This site is part of the excursion from Minsk, allowing tourists to learn more about the region’s cultural heritage.

Excursions

The building of the former Novogrudok Gymnasium is included in popular excursions across Belarus. Visitors can explore the Boris Kit Museum, see the historical interiors, and learn about the fate of the gymnasium’s students and teachers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of Belarusian education and the region's cultural development. An excursion from Minsk to Novogrudok will provide a deeper understanding of the gymnasium’s role in shaping the Belarusian intelligentsia.