Palace Tyshkevichej

The Tyszkiewicz Palace and Park Ensemble in the town of Volozhin is a vivid example of Belarus' architectural heritage from the early 19th century, combining elements of Classicism and European manor culture. The complex was built at the turn of an era when noble families sought to create symbols of status, taste, and influence in their estates. The palace in Volozhin became not only the residence of one of the wealthiest and most influential magnate families — the Tyszkiewicz family — but also a true adornment of the region.

Today, although the ensemble's territory is partially used by the military, it remains an important architectural and historical landmark. Including this site in the routes of excursions across Belarus allows tourists and history enthusiasts to discover a unique example of aristocratic manor culture. A particularly popular option is a one-day excursion from Minsk to Volozhin.

History of Creation

The history of the palace ensemble in Volozhin begins in the early 19th century, during the flourishing period of the Tyszkiewicz family. Count Józef Tyszkiewicz, aiming to establish his primary residence in Volozhin, decided to build a palace that would emphasize the family’s status and power. The location was chosen for its deep historical roots — this was the site of a medieval castle, highlighting the continuity and significance of the place.

Construction was carried out between 1803 and 1806 under the supervision of architect Kossakovsky, a master who worked in the spirit of European Classicism. Alongside the palace, the Church of Saint Joseph was built, which became an important religious and cultural center in Volozhin. In the 19th century, the palace hosted balls, receptions, gatherings of nobility, and cultural events. Its halls welcomed many prominent representatives of Belarusian and Lithuanian aristocracy.

Today, visitors can learn about these facts by joining an excursion with a tour of the palace, which includes a detailed account of its construction, the lives of the Tyszkiewicz family members, and how the palace fit into the historical context of the region. Such excursions across Belarus are especially appealing to those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of how the cultural and political life of the country was shaped.

Architecture of the Palace

The architectural design of the Tyszkiewicz palace and park ensemble was executed in the Classical style, known for its strict forms, harmonious proportions, and refined decoration. The complex consists of three two-story buildings arranged in a U-shaped layout. Two of the buildings stand parallel to each other in a unified style, while the third, placed perpendicularly, encloses the formal courtyard, completing the composition with elegance.

The facades are adorned with modest porticoes, an order system, columns, and stucco work, which lend the ensemble sophistication and grandeur. Special attention was given to the central part of the complex, where a luxurious two-story greenhouse with a dome-shaped roof was located. The greenhouse housed exotic plants such as palms, orange trees, shrubs, and flowers, all cared for by the best gardeners in the region.

Behind the palace stretched a magnificent landscaped park along the river, believed to have been established as early as the 12th century. The park was a picturesque extension of the architectural concept and served as a place for strolls and leisure. Its alleys, green lawns, and ponds created an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony with nature.

Excursions with a Tour of the Palace

Today, the Tyszkiewicz Palace in Volozhin is actively included in the routes of excursions across Belarus due to its cultural and historical significance. Touring this landmark allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 19th century, see examples of classical architecture, and learn fascinating details about the life of the Belarusian aristocracy.

A particularly popular option is an excursion from Minsk to Volozhin: convenient transport connections make it possible to complete the trip in just one day. The program includes not only a tour of the palace ensemble but also a walk around the surroundings, an introduction to the history of Volozhin, and visits to other nearby attractions. During the excursion, qualified guides share insights about the Tyszkiewicz family, the palace’s architecture, the features of manor life, and the fate of the complex in the 20th century. Tourists can take memorable photos, enjoy the scenery, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a noble era.

You can book an excursion with a tour of the palace on the website ekskursii.by. This is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Belarus' rich historical heritage without leaving the Minsk Region.