Aleksandrovsky Square, also known by the popular name "Panikovka," is one of the attractions of Minsk. It is located in the very center of the city, next to the National Academic Theater named after Yanka Kupala, and also close to the metro stations "Kupalauskaya" and "Oktyabrskaya."
The history of the square dates back to 1836, when it was created on the site of the former Novy Market at the initiative of the city mayor Leopold Delpats. The square was named in honor of Alexander Nevsky. Until the 1930s, there was a chapel of the same name here, which was later demolished, and the square was renamed Central. Only in 2009 was the historical name restored.
The central attraction of Aleksandrovsky Square is the fountain "Boy with a Swan," installed in 1874 to celebrate the launch of the city water supply. The sculpture, created by the Berlin master Theodor Kalide, has become a hallmark of the square. Over time, the fountain acquired the nickname "Panikovsky," in honor of the hero of the novel by Ilf and Petrov "The Golden Calf."
Aleksandrovsky Square is also known for its interesting architectural history. In 1890, a theater was opened here, which now bears the name of Yanka Kupala. The square also retains the building of Minsk's first public toilet, built in 1912. This object attracts attention for its unusual architecture and the urban legend about how an architect, who did not receive payment for building a palace, retaliated by creating a scaled-down copy of the client's house.
Today, Aleksandrovsky Square remains a cozy green corner in the city center, where you can relax in the shade of trees, sit on benches, or attend summer concerts. Combining rich historical heritage with a modern atmosphere, this square is an ideal place for walks and meetings.