Everything in Polotsk literally breathes history. This ancient city has many places worth visiting. One of them is the art museum.

It is located in the building of the former Jesuit collegium, which is an architectural monument of the 18th century. Its area is 900 sq. m.

What collections can be seen

In this museum of Polotsk, works of art are located in two halls. There are permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Here are the following exhibits:

• Collections of cult applied art of the XII-XIX centuries;

• Masterpieces of icon painting of the 18th – 20th centuries;

• Secular portrait painting of the 18th century;

• Collections of fine arts of Belarus of the XX century.

In the museum, you will learn about the development of art in our country, get acquainted with interesting facts from the life of famous artists, see archaeological objects of the 12th century and iconic copper casting.

There is a permanent exhibition dedicated to the murals of the Transfiguration Church. The exposition demonstrates the technological process of the layering and conservation of multilayer wall paintings made in different centuries. Just imagine: every millimeter of fresco painting was cleaned of dust, soot and fixed with a special compound.

The exposition is updated regularly, so every time you can discover something new. The gallery also pays attention to the formation of aesthetic taste in children. Museum classes are held for children. The lessons develop an interest in art and creativity.

The gallery occupies a special place among all the sights of Polotsk. It is not just an institution where people come to get acquainted with art, but a cultural center, a home of creativity and a source of inspiration for artists and visitors.

Sights of Polotsk: what to see in one day

If you are planning to explore this city on your own, we recommend visiting St. Sophia Cathedral – the first stone church in Belarus. Do not miss the Borisov stone, a 12th-century boulder, the monument of ancient Russian epigraphy.

One can’t mention the sights of the city of Polotsk and not say a word about popular museums:

• Local history – located in the building of the Lutheran church;

• Natural and ecological – located in the former water tower;

• The museum of the Belarusian Book Printing – located in the building of the former Brotherhood School of the Polotsk Epiphany Monastery of the 18th century.

These are not all the museums and attractions that this city has! To visit every, one day is definitely not enough. Therefore, it is best to book a tour. Together with VETLIVA you will see the most beautiful places and fall in love with Polotsk forever!