The Central Post Office of Minsk, located at Independence Avenue, 10, is not only the central postal institution of the city but also an important architectural monument reflecting the spirit of the post-war era. Built between 1949 and 1953 by the outstanding architects Vladimir Korol and Abram Duhan, the building embodies the style of Stalinist monumental classicism, harmoniously fitting into the overall appearance of the capital of Belarus.
Architectural Features
The Central Post Office consists of two connected volumes. The main four-story P-shaped building, located along Independence Avenue, and a round rotunda with a dome, housing a large operational hall, create a unique architectural composition. The diameter of the rotunda's dome is 30 meters, making it the central part of the building. The main facade facing the avenue is distinguished by symmetry and majestic Corinthian columns, which give the building a monumental character. The central arch of the entrance, massive pilasters, and a tall attic complement its grand appearance.
Natural stone, high-quality plaster, and stucco details, as well as stained glass depicting monuments of Belarusian architecture, created for the 1980 Olympics by the famous artist V. Poznyak, were used in the decoration of the facades and interiors. These stained glass windows lend uniqueness to the interior decoration and create an atmosphere that reflects the rich architectural heritage of Belarus.
Significance for Urban Architecture
The Central Post Office not only symbolizes significant historical moments in the life of Minsk but also serves as a characteristic example of the use of classical heritage elements in the architecture of the country in the 1940s and 1950s. Its construction was a landmark event for Minsk, which was recovering from the destruction of World War II. The building became one of the first to restore the city’s grandeur and glory. The Central Post Office also embodies the city's connection to the outside world, reflecting its role as a central hub for postal communication.
Interestingly, when designing the height of the Central Post Office, the construction of neighboring buildings, such as the "Minsk" hotel and the City Executive Committee building, was taken into account. This was done to maintain a unified architectural style and harmony in urban development.
Unique Interior Elements
The interior decoration of the Central Post Office is equally impressive. The operational hall is designed as a domed rotunda, where a special acoustics allows sound to travel along the walls, creating the effect of a "whispering gallery." The main decoration of the hall consists of 15 stained glass windows dedicated to monuments of Belarusian architecture from the 11th to the 18th centuries. These works of art allow visitors to take a virtual tour of Belarus's iconic sites in just a few minutes.
In the center of the hall is a sign indicating the distance to key cities in Belarus and Europe, as well as unique clocks showing the exact time in Minsk and major cities worldwide. These clocks, which run continuously, have become an important symbol of time for the residents and guests of the capital.
How to Get to the Central Post Office?
You can visit the Central Post Office of Minsk in several ways. For those who prefer public transport, the easiest way is to get to "Lenin Square" metro station or take buses and minivans that stop near the post office. If you plan to arrive by car, the GPS coordinates of the building are 53.896333, 27.550997.
Conclusion
The Central Post Office of Minsk is not just a postal institution; it is an outstanding architectural monument that has become a symbol of the capital. Its majestic facade, unique stained glass, and rich history attract the attention of both locals and tourists. The building embodies the revival of Minsk in the post-war period and continues to be an important part of urban life, serving up to 10,000 visitors daily. The Central Post Office is an integral part of the cultural and historical heritage of Belarus, which everyone should see when visiting the capital.