Nesvizh Palace can be rightly called the most stunning castles in Belarus. Due to sundry architectural styles and a big landscaped park, the palace has gained huge popularity among both Belarusians and foreign tourists. It became the culture capital of Belarus for the year 2012!
History of the Nesvizh Castle
The construction was initiated by Mikołaj Krzysztof Radziwiłł in 1583. There is no accurate information regarding who designed the castle. Some speculate that Mikołaj Krzysztof Radziwiłł designed the project himself, and some researches state that an Italian architect Bernardoni took part in the construction at some stages.
From the 16th to the 20th century the palace was the residence of one of the richest and most noble dynasties in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania – Radziwiłł. Kings of Poland and other upper class families regularly paid visits to the mansion.
Since the palace was rebuilt several times, it features multiple styles of architecture:
- neo-gothic;
- baroque;
- classicism;
- modernism;
- renaissance;
- rococo.
In 1764 and 1768, the palace was occupied by Russian troops because of the anti-Russian stance of its landlord Ling Stanisław “the Pious” Radziwiłł. Family’s possessions were confiscated, including a huge collection of over 10,000 books and an archive, which were taken out to Saint Petersburg. Many of the works of art were distributed among Russian upper class.
At the end of the 19th century, one of the largest and most impressive landscaped parks in Europe was laid next to the palace.
In 1939, after the Russian Red Army entered Nesvizh and the Soviet power was established, the Radziwiłłs had to leave the palace.
After the Second World War the palace housed a sanatorium, and the beautiful park came in a dilapidated state.
A historic and cultural museum preserve was created on the premises of the castle in 1993. In 2005 it entered the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Castle These Days
Nesvizh is among the most beautiful palaces of Belarus and every year draws thousands of visitors. The landscaped garden with lovely lakes and shady pathways deserve particular attention.
In general, there are 5 parks that occupy 66 hectares:
- English Park;
- Castle Park;
- Japanese Park;
- Marysin Park;
- Old Park.
Want to go on an excursion to Nesvizh? We have a better option for you! Book our tour and you will see not only the castle but a number of other exciting places in Minsk! Check out details about the tour here.
