Brylevsky Field

Brylevskoye Field is a historic site associated with the dramatic events of the War of 1812. Here, on the banks of the Berezina River, in November 1812, the fate of the French army was decided during its retreat. The Berezina crossing became Napoleon’s last major battle in this campaign and ended with the complete defeat of his troops. Historians call these events the tragic culmination of the War of 1812, as it was here that Napoleon, having lost about 50 thousand soldiers, finally lost control over his army. Today, Brylevskoye Field is a memorial complex important for understanding the history of not only Belarus but all of Europe. Tourists can visit this site as part of tours around Belarus to immerse themselves in the spirit of the era and see the places where history was made.

Historical Significance

The Berezina of 1812 is not just the name of a river but a symbol of military catastrophe and the end of Napoleon’s conquests. The crossing at the village of Studenka was the most tragic moment of the French army’s retreat. In November 1812, the Russian army under Kutuzov surrounded the French troops, forcing them to hastily build bridges and flee across the icy river. Despite desperate attempts to escape, most of the soldiers perished in the water or under Russian artillery fire. These events had a tremendous impact on European history, and the battlefield became a memorial honored in Belarus, Russia, France, and other countries.

At Brylevskoye Field and the village of Studenka, visitors can see preserved traces of these events. History was written here by multiple nations: Russians, French, Belarusians, Poles, Germans, and Swiss. This makes the site interesting not only for historians but also for ordinary travelers who wish to better understand the pivotal events of the 19th century.

Monuments and Memorials

The first commemorative markers at Brylevskoye Field appeared in 1836 by order of Emperor Nicholas I. At the site of the destroyed French bridges, two memorial columns were erected, engraved with the Latin letter "N" (Napoleon). Later, these markers disappeared, and by the late 19th century, no one knew exactly where the Eble and Chasseloup bridges had been located.

In 1898, researcher Ivan Kolodeev conducted archaeological excavations and determined the precise location of the crossing. In 1901, using his own funds and donations from Borisov residents, he erected two memorial markers at the sites of the artillery and infantry bridges. The plaques stated that the Berezina crossing took place at this exact location. The monuments stood for about 20 years before being destroyed.

In 1997, a new memorial complex was opened at Brylevskoye Field to honor the French soldiers who perished in 1812. In 2002, at the site of the old commemorative marker, a bright red tombstone was restored, featuring white medallions depicting Napoleon and Alexander I. A wooden column with the letter "N," similar to the original from the 19th century, was also rebuilt.

Every year on November 26, Brylevskoye Field hosts solemn ceremonies dedicated to the memory of the fallen. In 2006, a burial ceremony was held here for the remains of French soldiers discovered during excavations. The event was attended by diplomats, historians, and representatives from France, Russia, Belarus, and other countries.

Tours with a Visit to Brylevskoye Field

Today, Brylevskoye Field is a popular historical tourism destination, attracting both Belarusian and international travelers. This site can be visited as part of tours around Belarus, which include viewing memorials, battle locations, and learning about the 1812 military campaign. Guides provide detailed accounts of the crossing, showcase the monuments, and share fascinating facts about Napoleon and his army.

A tour from Minsk to Brylevskoye Field is available for visitors. This route not only offers a convenient trip to the memorial complex but also provides insights into Napoleon’s last battle on Belarusian territory. Visitors can book a tour with a visit to Brylevskoye Field at any time of the year, but these trips are especially impressive in November, when reenactments of the battle take place. Each year, Brylevskoye Field gathers hundreds of participants from historical clubs in Poland, France, Russia, and Germany to recreate the events of the 1812 crossing. Tourists can witness battle reenactments, see how soldiers of that era looked, and even hear the roar of old cannons. This spectacular event helps visitors experience the atmosphere of those distant times and better understand the events that changed the course of European history.