Zero Kilometer of Belarus is a commemorative sign that symbolizes the starting point of all roads in the Republic of Belarus. It is installed in the center of Minsk on October Square and represents a granite pyramid adorned with bronze cartouches and medallions. This monument was erected in 1998 during the reconstruction of the square and has become a symbol of the country's transportation system, linking history and modernity.
The history of Zero Kilometer dates back to the 18th century, when Minsk became part of the Russian Empire after the second partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1793. At that time, the city's roads were being organized, and regular postal communication began in 1795. Mileposts were installed on postal routes, and the "zero milestone" was located near the Main Post Office — the reference point for all provincial roads. For many years, Zero Kilometer remained near the Main Post Office, but in 1998 it was moved to October Square.
The monument itself is made of granite, brought from Portugal. The pyramid symbolizes strength and eternity, and its shape also resembles ancient Egyptian pyramids, which have always been associated with wisdom and stability. On the sides of the monument, there are bronze medallions with a map of Belarus' roads, the Latin saying "The road is life," verses by Yakub Kolas, and an inscription about the beginning of Belarus' roads. At the base of the pyramid are plaques indicating the distances from Minsk to the largest cities in the country and the capitals of neighboring states.
One of the unique features of the monument is that each direction on the plaques corresponds to the cardinal points. For example, information about the distances to Moscow, Mogilev, and Bobruisk is placed on the eastern side, while Warsaw is on the southwest side. This not only enhances the monument's symbolism but also makes it convenient for tourists, who often use it as a landmark.
Zero Kilometer in Minsk has become a landmark for both locals and tourists. Residents of the capital often arrange meetings here, while visitors to the city are keen to find the distances to their hometowns on the monument. This monument is not just a geographic point from which Belarus' roads are counted, but also an important element of Minsk's cultural and historical heritage.
Comparing Minsk's Zero Kilometer with similar markers in other countries, one can note that such monuments exist in many cities around the world. However, each of these monuments has its unique history related to the culture and traditions of the country.
Today, Zero Kilometer on October Square has become an important part of the tourist route through Minsk. It blends harmoniously with the square's architecture, not obstructing the view of the city's main attractions, such as the Palace of the Republic and Alexandrovsky Square. The monument fits perfectly with the historical context, preserving important aspects of the past while adding a new dimension to the city's landscape.
Thus, Zero Kilometer of Belarus is not just a commemorative sign. It is a symbol of the beginning of all the country's roads, embodying both the historical roots and the modern connection of Minsk with other cities and countries.