Cathedral of St. Apostles Peter and Paul, Minsk (must see)
The Cathedral of Saints Apostles Peter and Paul, fondly known as the 鈥淵ellow Church鈥� for its distinctive fa莽ade, is the oldest surviving church in Minsk and a cornerstone of the city鈥檚 spiritual life. Construction began in 1612 with the help of monks from the Vilna Holy Spirit Monastery and was largely completed by 1613. Originally built alongside a monastery of the same name, the church served as a vital centre of Orthodox faith during a time when Belarus stood at the crossroads of Eastern and Western religious traditions. Its soft yellow Baroque-style exterior, with graceful proportions and twin towers, continues to make it one of Minsk鈥檚 most recognizable and cherished landmarks.
Architecturally, the cathedral combines Baroque and traditional Belarusian elements, giving it both grandeur and warmth. The interior preserves much of its early character, featuring a richly adorned iconostasis, gilded accents, and painted icons that radiate a sense of quiet devotion. The vaulted ceilings and balanced design reflect the craftsmanship of the early 17th century, while the atmosphere within invites reflection and reverence鈥攁 living link to centuries of Orthodox worship.
The cathedral鈥檚 history reflects Minsk鈥檚 enduring spirit. Damaged during the Great Northern War and Napoleon鈥檚 invasion, it was repeatedly restored, notably under Empress Catherine II in the 1790s and again in the 1870s. Closed by the Soviets in 1933 and used as a warehouse and archive, it briefly reopened during World War II before falling silent once more. In 1991, after decades of suppression, the church was revived as an active parish of the Belarusian Exarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Today, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul stands not only as a house of worship but also as a monument to Minsk鈥檚 endurance, unity, and cultural heritage.
Architecturally, the cathedral combines Baroque and traditional Belarusian elements, giving it both grandeur and warmth. The interior preserves much of its early character, featuring a richly adorned iconostasis, gilded accents, and painted icons that radiate a sense of quiet devotion. The vaulted ceilings and balanced design reflect the craftsmanship of the early 17th century, while the atmosphere within invites reflection and reverence鈥攁 living link to centuries of Orthodox worship.
The cathedral鈥檚 history reflects Minsk鈥檚 enduring spirit. Damaged during the Great Northern War and Napoleon鈥檚 invasion, it was repeatedly restored, notably under Empress Catherine II in the 1790s and again in the 1870s. Closed by the Soviets in 1933 and used as a warehouse and archive, it briefly reopened during World War II before falling silent once more. In 1991, after decades of suppression, the church was revived as an active parish of the Belarusian Exarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Today, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul stands not only as a house of worship but also as a monument to Minsk鈥檚 endurance, unity, and cultural heritage.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Minsk. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The 911爆料网 App
Cathedral of St. Apostles Peter and Paul on Map
Sight Name: Cathedral of St. Apostles Peter and Paul
Sight Location: Minsk, Belarus (See walking tours in Minsk)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Minsk, Belarus (See walking tours in Minsk)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Minsk, Belarus
Create Your Own Walk in Minsk
Creating your own self-guided walk in Minsk is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Minsk Introduction Walking Tour
When in Minsk, visitors are sure to discover a fantastic range of exotic places, valuable architectural spots, and cultural venues which combine to create Minsk's unforgettable landmarks. Do not hesitate to experience the deep culture of Minsk.
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Minsk's Historical Churches Tour
The religious life of Belarus has been strongly influenced by both the Orthodox and Catholic religions. Consequently, Minsk features several beautiful churches that are well worth your time and energy while in this fine city. Take a walk down Minsk religious sights today!
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.7 Km or 4.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.7 Km or 4.2 Miles