Church of St. Anthony in Gubino

Gubinsky Church of St. Anthony – one of the forgotten yet significant Baroque architectural monuments in Belarus. It is located in the village of Gubino and represents the ruins of a once-grand Catholic church, built in the early 18th century as part of a Franciscan monastery complex. The history of the church is filled with dramatic events: from flourishing to complete destruction. Despite its loss, its ruins continue to attract researchers, historians, and architecture enthusiasts. Excursions in Belarus that include this site allow visitors to learn more about the country’s religious heritage and the tragic fate of many Catholic shrines.

History of Construction

The Church of St. Anthony was built in 1714 by the Franciscan Order. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it was an important center of spiritual life, uniting the local Catholic population. Regular services were held in the church, and the monastery played an educational and charitable role.

However, the 20th century brought hardships. The last service was held in 1929, after which the church was closed. During the Soviet era, it lost its religious function: first, it was turned into a club where meetings and dances were held, and later, the building was converted into a granary. The final destruction of the church occurred after the war – it was demolished using a tank tractor, and its red bricks were used for construction purposes.

Architecture and Spiritual Life

Originally, the Church of St. Anthony was built in the Baroque style, which was typical for Catholic churches of that period. The main construction material was red brick, and the layout followed the shape of a Latin cross. The interior was richly decorated, featuring three altars and masterfully carved images of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Blessed Virgin Mary of Ostrobrama.

Despite its destruction, the remaining walls, fragments of brickwork, and the foundation outlines provide a glimpse of the church’s former grandeur. Its architectural elements offer an opportunity to study Franciscan ecclesiastical architecture in Belarus.

Excursions with a Church Tour

For those interested in history and religious architecture, excursions in Belarus with a visit to the Gubinsky Church are available. These tours include an inspection of the ruins, a historical overview of the monastery and church, and insights into the fate of Catholic churches in the region.

It is possible to book an excursion that includes a tour of the Gubinsky Church as part of a broader itinerary featuring other historical sites. For tourists from the capital, excursions from Minsk are organized, allowing visitors to see not only this monument but also other significant landmarks in the area. A trip to the ruins of the Church of St. Anthony is an opportunity to connect with history and experience the atmosphere of past centuries.