Monument to Sophia Slutskaya

The Monument to Sophia of Slutsk in Slutsk is one of the city's most significant landmarks. The monument was solemnly unveiled on September 24, 2000, in the park on Maksim Bahdanovich Street. It is dedicated to the last representative of the noble Olelkovich-Slutsk family – Sophia of Slutsk, who was canonized by the Belarusian Orthodox Church in 1984.

History of Sophia of Slutsk

Sophia of Slutsk was the only daughter of Prince Yuri Yurievich Olelkovich and Barbara Kishka. Orphaned at an early age, she inherited significant wealth. Shortly after her parents' death, her two uncles also passed away without heirs, making Sophia the owner of their estates. By her grandfather’s will, she also received the title of Princess of Kopyl, becoming one of the wealthiest brides in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Childhood and Marriage

Sophia spent her childhood in Brest and Vilnius under the care of her maternal relatives. She was initially raised by the prominent statesman of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Yuri Khodkevich, and later by his brother, the Brest elder Hieronim Khodkevich. Due to financial obligations to the Radziwiłł family, Yuri Khodkevich arranged Sophia’s marriage to Janusz Radziwiłł, a representative of this powerful dynasty. Their wedding took place in 1600.

Defender of Orthodox Faith

Sophia of Slutsk actively supported the Orthodox Church in Slutsk despite the religious conflicts of her time. During the period when Orthodoxy was banned and persecuted, she became its protector. She provided financial and moral support to the clergy and the town’s residents and managed to obtain a decree from the authorities prohibiting the forced conversion of her subjects. Although historians still debate her personal religious beliefs, her role in defending Orthodoxy remains undeniable. She passed away at the age of 26 during childbirth.

Description of the Monument

The Monument to Sophia of Slutsk is the work of sculptor Mikhail Inkov and architect Nikolai Lukyanchik. The bronze monument depicts the princess standing tall. Behind her rises a white arch composed of three "petals," symbolizing the Christian Church. A crucial detail in the composition is the gesture of Sophia’s left hand, which invites visitors to pause and reflect on the fleeting nature of life and its spiritual meaning.

Excursions to the Monument to Sophia of Slutsk

The Monument to Sophia of Slutsk in Slutsk is a significant site for tourists interested in Belarusian history. It is included in the itineraries of excursions in Belarus. An excursion from Minsk provides an opportunity to learn more about the princess’s life, Orthodox traditions, and the history of Slutsk. You can book an excursion in advance by selecting a convenient date: Excursion to the Slutsk Belt Factory