Trinitarian monastery complex in Krivichi

The Trinitarian Monastery Complex in Krivichi is one of the few sites in Belarus that has preserved not only the church building but also parts of the original monastic residential quarters. The ensemble includes a stone church, former cloister buildings, and is surrounded by a fence with original arched gates. Today, it functions as an active parish, where services continue, and its modest yet impressive architecture makes it a unique point of interest on the country’s cultural map.

History

The Trinitarian Order, founded in the late 12th century, only appeared in Belarus at the end of the 17th century. The monastery in Krivichi was the fourth Trinitarian foundation in the region. It was funded by Andrey Ukolski and his wife Teresa, who sponsored the construction of a wooden monastery in 1776–1777. In 1796, a stone church dedicated to St. Andrew the Apostle was erected and consecrated by the Bishop of Trakai. However, in 1832, following the Polish Uprising, the monastery was dissolved, and the church was handed over to the local parish. Thanks to this, the church survived and remains active to this day.

Architecture

The Church of St. Andrew is built in the late Baroque style, featuring sculptural facades, clean lines, and elegant details. A two-story monastic building remains adjacent to the church. One of the most remarkable interior features is the miraculous statue of Christ of Nazareth, brought from one of the closed Trinitarian monasteries. In the second half of the 19th century, the entire complex was surrounded by a fieldstone wall with brick three-arched gates, which lends the ensemble unity and solemnity.

Excursions

An excursion from Minsk to the Trinitarian Monastery Complex in Krivichi offers a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of a rare Catholic order and admire a monument that has remained virtually unchanged since the 18th century. This destination is especially suited for tailor-made tours: you can include a trip to Krivichi as part of an individual tour of the Minsk region or as an addition to a larger itinerary across Belarus. We’ll be happy to create a custom route based on your interests — whether it’s architecture, spiritual heritage, or off-the-beaten-path landmarks.