1. Independence Avenue

Independence Avenue stretches for nearly 15 km across Minsk – and has broken every possible record for name changes: this is already its tenth official name! Most of Minsk's top sights line this boulevard, along with dozens of striking buildings, several grand squares, and a picturesque botanical garden.

2. Freedom Square

This historic place has long been considered the heart of Minsk. The square was founded in the early 16th century and every cobblestone here is steeped in history. It once concentrated the entire cultural, religious, and commercial life of the city. Today the centrepiece is the town hall, flanked by the restored Gostiny Dvor arcade and the majestic Church of the Holy Virgin Mary.

3. Minsk Town Hall

One of Minsk's most prominent landmarks is the town hall, which once housed the city magistrate. The original building was erected in 1582, then demolished in the mid-19th century. Archaeologists and historians spent years tracing its exact location and studying its architecture before reconstructing it by 2003. The rebuilt structure is not an exact replica, but many original details – including the half-metre-thick walls – were preserved. Minskers now gather here every year for City Day and other major celebrations.

4. The Gates of Minsk

These twin towers are Minsk's most recognizable symbol – the very first thing visitors see arriving by train or bus. Built in 1953, they are the finest example of Stalinist classicism in the city. The left tower is crowned by the largest clock in Belarus, 3.5 metres in diameter – a war trophy captured from the Germans.

5. Victory Square

This elegant oval square in central Minsk is framed on one side by semicircular Stalinist-era buildings and on the other by greenery. At its centre stands a granite obelisk – the Victory Monument – with an Eternal Flame burning at its base. Wreaths are laid here every year in memory of those who fell in the Great Patriotic War. Beneath the square lies a Memorial Hall and a metro entrance.

6. The Red Church

Minsk's most famous Catholic church was built in honour of Saints Simon and Helena. Construction began in 1905, funded by local aristocrat Edward Woyniłłowicz, who donated his entire fortune after losing both beloved children – Simon and Helena – leaving no heirs. The red brick used throughout gave rise to its popular name, the Red Church. During the Soviet era it housed a film studio, then a Museum of Cinema. In 1990 it was returned to the Catholic Church.

7. Mound of Glory

On the road from Minsk Airport stands the famous Mound of Glory, marking the spot where Soviet forces routed a 105,000-strong German army in July 1944 – the Minsk Pocket, a decisive moment in the liberation of Belarus. The monument rises more than 70 metres. Reaching its base requires climbing several hundred steps, but the feeling that comes over you at the top is beyond words.

8. Independence Square

Here you'll find the country's main government buildings, the famous Red Church, two universities, a hotel, and the main post office. Independence Square is beautifully green – a favourite evening spot for couples and families with young children. Beneath it lies a multi-level car park and the largest shopping centre in Belarus, whose glass domes emerge at the surface to bring natural light into the mall and add an architectural flourish to the square above.

9. The National Library of Belarus

This is perhaps Minsk's most unusual building – constructed in the shape of a rhombicuboctahedron, no less. In simpler terms: a 23-storey glass 'diamond' housing not only library collections but also museums, music salons, and galleries. The building's beauty truly comes alive at dusk, when the surface of the 'diamond' becomes a giant illuminated screen displaying ever-changing patterns.

10. Nesvizh Castle

This is far more than a castle – it is a magnificent palace-and-park ensemble! Founded in the 16th century as the family residence of the Radziwill dynasty, it was surrounded in the 19th century by several parks: the English Park, Marysina, Antony Park, the Old Park, and the Japanese Garden. Each is beautiful and unique in its own way. The complex lies 127 km from Minsk, in the town of Nesvizh. Do make time for a visit – it is well worth the trip!