Literary-memorial complex by Yakub Kolas «Smolnya»

On the picturesque bank of the Neman River, surrounded by trees planted by Yakub Kolas himself, lies the memorial estate «Smolnya» — one of the most meaningful places in the poet’s life and Belarusian cultural heritage. This former estate of the Mitskevich family witnessed many inspiring moments that turned it into a cradle of national literary legacy. Today, the estate is part of the Yakub Kolas Literary and Memorial Complex, which includes both a memorial and a literary section. Everything here breathes the spirit of the early 20th century — interiors, peasant household items, and a creative atmosphere of solitude.

History

Yakub Kolas first visited Smolnya on September 19, 1911, shortly after being released from prison. The estate seemed poor and neglected to him, so he planted trees to bring it a touch of comfort. These very lime trees still grow on the museum grounds. It was here in 1912 that Kolas met fellow poet Yanka Kupala — a symbolic and long-awaited meeting that began their lifelong friendship and literary camaraderie.

Kolas worked in Smolnya on his epic poems «New Land» and «Simon the Musician», wrote stories and verses, and later immortalized the estate in his trilogy «At the Crossroads». His last visit was in 1956 — a quiet farewell to a beloved place.

In 1967, a branch of the State Yakub Kolas Literary and Memorial Museum was opened here. In 1972, to mark the poet’s 90th anniversary, the memorial house was turned into a museum, with its interior carefully reconstructed based on the memories of Kolas’s relatives. A two-story building houses the literary exhibition, which tells the story of Kolas’s life, his creative path, and his connection with his homeland.

Excursions

You can visit this exceptional place as part of an individual tour from Minsk to the Yakub Kolas Literary and Memorial Complex «Smolnya». This journey offers more than just a museum visit — it's a chance to encounter the spirit of the era, the soul of Belarusian rural life, and the creative inspiration that fueled Kolas’s masterpieces. Walk the same paths as the great poets, rest under the lime trees where Kolas and Kupala once sat, and feel the unique atmosphere of Belarusian cultural memory.

We organize private excursions across Belarus, including tailor-made trips to Smolnya, personalized according to your interests. It's a perfect choice for those who appreciate literature, history, and authentic emotions. You’ll see the memorial house, the literary exhibition, temporary displays (including works by Kolas’s descendants), ethnographic artifacts, and rare archival materials.