Site of ancient settlement of an epoch of the Middle Ages

The Ancient Settlement of Barysau – one of the significant archaeological monuments of Belarus that has been preserved since the 12th century. It is located 4 km from modern-day Barysau, in the village of Stary Barysau. This fortified settlement of oval shape (150 x 80 m in size) was situated on the left bank of the Berezina River, approximately 1.5 km from its current course. The settlement is separated from the mainland by a deep moat, and in ancient times, the entrance was located on the northeast side. Beyond the moat lies an open settlement – an unfortified area where the town's population resided.

The city of Barysau was first mentioned in chronicles in 1128 in connection with the struggle among the sons of Vladimir Monomakh. It was founded by Prince Barys Vseslavich, the son of Polotsk Prince Vseslav the Sorcerer. Later, the city was moved to a different location, and the ancient settlement became known as Stary Barysau. Today, this place is an important archaeological site that provides insight into the life of Old Rus' towns.

History of Creation

The ancient settlement of Barysau emerged as a fortified outpost of the Principality of Polotsk, controlling the waterway along the Berezina River. Its location near the river made the town convenient for trade and military control of the area. In the 12th-13th centuries, Barysau flourished, with thriving craft workshops, trade, and military activities.

The cultural layer, about 0.9 meters thick, indicates a high density of buildings and an active urban life. During archaeological excavations in the settlement and surrounding areas, numerous artifacts from the 12th-13th centuries were discovered:

• glass bracelets, popular in Old Rus' cities;
• slate spindle whorls used for spinning;
• double-sided bone combs;
• a golden Kyiv-style earring with three beads;
• horseshoe-shaped fibulae (clothing fasteners);
• fragments of amphorae indicating trade ties with Byzantium.

Over time, the city was relocated to a new site, and the old settlement lost its significance. However, archaeological findings confirm its important role in the history of the region.

Modern Condition

Today, the remains of ancient Barysau are located on the grounds of a former state farm estate. Although the urban landscape has changed over time, the terrain of the fortifications and the moat remains clearly visible. The settlement is a historical and cultural monument of interest to both scholars and tourists.

Archaeological research has confirmed the importance of the site, and it is now regarded as a key location for studying Old Rus' culture in Belarus. The cultural layer continues to preserve numerous artifacts that help reconstruct the life of a medieval town.

Excursions with a Tour of the Settlement

Excursions across Belarus that include a visit to ancient Barysau offer a chance to see the place where the history of one of the oldest cities in the country began. Tourists can explore the remains of fortifications, learn about the discovered artifacts, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 12th-13th centuries.

Book an excursion with a tour of the settlement on the website ekskursii.by. A tour from Minsk is available, allowing visitors to explore not only the ancient settlement but also other historical landmarks of Barysau and its surroundings. During the tour, guides will share insights about the life of the medieval city, its significance for the Principality of Polotsk, and the discoveries made by archaeologists.