Andrei Halias

<b>Independence Square</b> in Minsk is the largest and one of the central squares of the Belarusian capital, boasting a rich history and cultural significance. Its construction began in 1933 based on a project by the renowned Soviet architect Iosif Langbard. Initially, it was called Lenin Square, and for many decades it was an important public and political center of Minsk. Numerous events, parades, and demonstrations take place on the square, and its unique architectural ensemble is a hallmark of the city.

The dominant structure on the square is the Government House, built in the constructivist style in the 1930s. It is one of the largest public buildings in Minsk, where the Parliament and the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus are now located. Architect Iosif Langbard not only designed the Government House but also the overall plan of the square, which envisioned the creation of a civic center for the city. In 1933, a monument to V.I. Lenin, created by sculptor Matvey Manizer, was installed in front of the building. The monument depicts Lenin at the moment of addressing Red Army soldiers, who were heading to the Polish front in 1920.

During World War II, in July 1941, the Lenin monument was destroyed by Nazi German occupiers, but in 1945 it was restored based on surviving models. The monument was recast in Leningrad and reinstalled in its original place. The Government House and the Lenin monument are key elements of the square’s architectural ensemble, preserved from the pre-war period.

One of the architectural gems of the square is the Red Church (Church of Saints Simon and Helena), built in the early 20th century in the Neo-Gothic style. This Catholic church was erected with funds from Belarusian nobleman Edward Woyniłowicz in memory of his children. The church, made of red brick, contrasts with the white monumental buildings of the Soviet era, giving the square a distinctive character. Around the Red Church are other significant landmarks, such as the Minsk Hotel, the Main Post Office, and the Minsk City Executive Committee.

The modern appearance of the square was shaped after a reconstruction that took place from 2002 to 2006. During this period, the square's infrastructure was significantly changed: an underground shopping center "Stolitsa" and a four-level parking lot for 500 cars were built. The above-ground part of the square was transformed into a recreational area with walking paths, a musical fountain, and the "Three Storks" sculpture composition. These changes made the square more convenient for city residents and visitors.

Independence Square is an important tourist and cultural site in Minsk. It is visited by many tourists, and tour groups regularly explore its history and architectural features. Thanks to a thoughtfully designed architectural ensemble that includes buildings from different eras — from the early 20th century to the Soviet period — Independence Square represents a harmonious blend of old and modern architecture.

Also located here are buildings of the Belarusian State University and the Maxim Tank Pedagogical University, both constructed during the Soviet period. In this area, you can also see other monuments, such as the Archangel Michael sculpture, installed in 1996, and the "Nagasaki Bell" monument, dedicated to the tragic events of the atomic bombing in Japan.

The "Lenin Square" metro station, located near the square, retains its original name from the Soviet era, further emphasizing the square’s connection to the historical past of the city and the country.

Overall, <b>Independence Square</b> is not just an important architectural site but also a symbol of Belarus’s long history. It reflects the key events that have taken place in the country over the decades, from the Soviet era to the present day. The square continues to serve as the center of public life and an important cultural heritage of Minsk. Tourists visiting the capital of Belarus always include Independence Square in their itineraries to witness its grandeur and beauty.

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