National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NAS of Belarus) is the leading scientific organization in the country, playing a key role in organizing, conducting, and coordinating both fundamental and applied scientific research. The Academy covers a wide range of fields, including natural, technical, humanitarian, and social sciences, as well as the arts. It is subordinate to the President of the Republic of Belarus and reports to the Council of Ministers, highlighting its importance in the structure of state governance.
The Academy building, completed in 1940, was designed by the famous architect Joseph Langbard, who also authored several significant structures in Minsk. Construction began in the 1930s and was originally conceived as a project developed by Lavrov, head of the architectural bureau of the People's Commissariat for Education of the USSR. However, during the design process, Langbard made changes that resulted in the creation of the original colonnade, which became the visual dominant of the building. This architectural detail was also utilized in the design of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, where the colonnade curves inward, becoming a distinctive feature of its style.
During World War II, the Academy building was severely damaged, burning shortly before the liberation of Minsk from the Nazis in 1944. This occurred against the backdrop of active hostilities when a military cemetery was organized under the walls of the Academy. The restoration of the building took place under Langbard’s guidance, who returned to the project to restore its original grandeur.
Today, the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus is not only a scientific center but also an important cultural institution. Many residents and tourists are drawn to its original architecture. The building is located on Independence Avenue, next to the subway station of the same name, making it accessible to a wide audience. Passing by, it’s worth stopping to appreciate its majestic appearance with columns, reflecting the spirit of the time in which it was built.
Currently, a museum operates on the Academy's premises, opened in 1989 for the 60th anniversary of the institution. The museum complex covers an area of 250 square meters and houses about 13,000 exhibits, over 3,500 of which are presented in the permanent exhibition. The museum’s exhibition reflects significant stages in the formation and development of science in Belarus, the achievements of scientists and organizations, as well as their contributions to various scientific fields.
The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of science in Belarus, starting from the earliest scientific presentations to modern achievements. A separate section presents materials on the history of the Belarusian Cultural Institute, which laid the foundation for the establishment of the Academy of Sciences in 1928. Furthermore, the museum highlights issues of state governance of science and international scientific and technical cooperation, emphasizing the importance of these aspects for the modern scientific community.
Among the exhibits, one can see rare copies of scientific literature, manuscripts, scientific correspondence, autobiographical materials of notable Belarusian scientists, unique photographs, and personal items. A separate collection is dedicated to the events of the Great Patriotic War, highlighting the participation of Academy staff in the patriotic underground and partisan movement, as well as their contributions to the country’s defense capability.
Visiting the museum is only possible as part of organized groups, which allows for a deeper and more informative acquaintance with the exhibition. Prior registration is mandatory, and you can use the contact phone number 017 350-14-52. The museum operates from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
National Academy of Sciences of Belarus and its museum are not just a place where scientific achievements are stored, but also a cultural center that continues to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers. Given its significance, the Academy is worth a visit to better understand the history and achievements of science in Belarus and to appreciate the majestic architecture that reflects the spirit of the time.
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