Church of Saints Simon and Helena

5.0

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Наталья Бакурова

Level 14 Local Expert

There are many beautiful churches in Belarus, both Catholic and Orthodox. The Church of St. Simeon and St. Helena is located in the center of Minsk, near Independence Square. I have repeatedly admired this architectural complex. Beautiful stained glass windows, doors, sculpture of Christ in a niche on the facade of the church. A sculpture of Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, on the pedestal of which are the words "Defenders of God, Faith and Christianity." It is amazing how carefully churches of different faiths are preserved in Belarus - this is the key to the unity of the people. Prosperity, peace, and kindness to the people of Belarus! 🙏🙏🙏💕💕

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Zro Zeroxe

Level 10 Local Expert

It's a very beautiful church! One of the main attractions of Minsk. The construction of the church began in 1905, the construction was led by nobleman Edward Voynilovich. The style of the temple is characterized as Neo-Romanesque, in some others as neo-Gothic with modern features. The church was named after the early deceased children of Voinilovich, Simeon and Elena. In Soviet times, the temple was closed, it was rebuilt, it had a theater, a cinema house. In 1990, the church was returned to the Catholic Church. In 1996, a sculpture of Archangel Michael was installed here, and in 2000, the Nagasaki Bell monument was erected. I advise everyone to visit here.

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Амели

Level 14 Local Expert

The territory of the church is clean , there is no garbage . There is a very interesting sculpture nearby and the very view of the red church is located next to all other attractions, be sure to check here along the way. They wanted to go inside, but it was closed

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Александр Евгеньевич

Level 15 Local Expert

It's a wonderful place and a very beautiful church. It would probably be worth dwelling on this, if not for one aspect.: A very significant feature of Belarus is that Orthodox churches peacefully coexist with Catholic ones, while never in history has Orthodoxy banned the Catholic faith, destroyed churches, seized church lands, stolen icons, or persecuted believers (which cannot be said about Catholicism)... Perhaps that is why Orthodox Christians are the Sons of God. And Catholics = servants of God... something like that 🤔

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Павел Максимов

Level 24 Local Expert

Greetings from Russia!!!!!I was in Minsk in April 2025. This church is one of the main attractions of Minsk. The Church of St. Simeon and St. Helena is located near Independence Square, the main square of the city, a five-minute walk from the railway station of Minsk. The church looks modern and very beautiful, it's nice to see and walk around the building. As if I found myself in the era of the time when it was built, for lovers of Gothic architecture, I recommend visiting.

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Aleksey P.

Level 20 Local Expert

This is not just a temple, but a real "living" reminder of the history of Minsk. When I arrived here, I realized that this place is worth a visit even for those who are not interested in religious architecture. ** What impressed you:** 🔹 **History and restoration.* The temple was built in 1910 in an eclectic style with Art Nouveau elements, but its real drama began in 1943, when it was destroyed during the bombing. The fact that it was restored in 2006 is inspiring — it is a symbol of resilience and rebirth. There are plaques at the entrance telling about the fate of the church, which adds depth to the impression. 🔹 **Architecture.* The facade with carved details, tall columns and the characteristic "bloody" coloring of the walls (hence the nickname "Bloody Church") make it recognizable. The interior impresses with its austerity and light: snow-white walls, wooden benches, simple but touching stained glass windows. The memorial plaque in honor of the war victims who died near this place looks especially touching. 🔹 **Atmosphere.** Even if you are not a Catholic, you feel peace inside. During my visit, the service was going on, and the silence, accompanied by the sounds of the organ, left an indelible impression. Nearby is a quiet square with benches where you can relax after a walk. , **Location.** The temple is located in the very center of Minsk, next to the National Library and Pervomaiskaya Street. After visiting the church, it is convenient to go for a walk through the historical districts of the city. ** Cons?** The only thing that could improve the impression is to have a short audio or video presentation about the history of the temple for tourists. There is enough information on the plates, but a more interactive format would attract more attention. **The result:** The Church of St. Simeon and St. Helena is not only a religious site, but also a powerful historical monument. It combines the beauty of the past, the tragedy of the war era and the hope of rebirth. Be sure to include it in your itinerary if you are in Minsk. This place makes you think about the value of memory and the preservation of cultural heritage. 📌 **The Council:** The best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the light is soft and the temple is especially photogenic.

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Алексей Воробьев

Level 12 Local Expert

I've been walking near the church since the end of 2024. Cute, neat, curious sculptural groups. Near the sculpture groups in the pedestrian zone, the ice and snow were not very well cleaned.

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Марк Краязнаўца

Level 23 Local Expert

One of the main symbols of the capital is the Church of St. Simeon and St. Helena, made in the Neo-Gothic style with Art Nouveau features in 1906. The building is interesting, the surrounding area is cozy and well maintained

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Ольга Мелехова

Level 15 Local Expert

An interesting object with a historical twist. Connects several nations with one thread. Although, it would seem, where is Japan and where is Belarus.At the unveiling of the monument in September 2000 in Minsk, Rector of Urakami Cathedral Shiichi Mimura spoke about the cultural and spiritual ties between the peoples of Belarus and Japan. In 1986, many regions of the country were severely affected by the Chernobyl disaster.

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Уши Терминатора

Level 11 Local Expert

It's a very atmospheric place. You can walk around the towers - everything is equipped and illuminated. The excursion program is rich and informative. I advise everyone.

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Sergey K.

Level 22 Local Expert

A very beautiful church in the center of Minsk. They went around from all sides. An impressive building with a lot of history. I recommend you to visit while walking around the center.

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Александр Гришанов

Level 14 Local Expert

A beautiful well-maintained church, unfortunately it is impossible to go inside, is located in a convenient location, on the Square of invisibility. Near the metro station, Government House

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Алеся П.

Level 9 Local Expert

One of the most favorite places in Minsk. I just like to sit next to the church, take a walk in that area in any weather and time of the year. There is a very calm, peaceful, inspiring atmosphere there. Unfortunately, the church has been closed to the public for several years. I am so sorry. I hope that this wonderful church will be returned to the parishioners, as well as to the citizens and guests of Minsk. Photos of the interiors were taken in 2019.

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Tanya Gavrilova

Level 12 Local Expert

The most beautiful Church in Belarus. I remember going on an excursion there at school and telling the story about its creation, it was very interesting! I'd love to go again!

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Maria Hadanovich

Level 8 Local Expert

Those who closed it will pay in the next world. I am very sorry for believers and employees, my soul hurts. For all those who have been coming here for years, decades, it's really a pity for them, a part of their heart was torn out. Passing tourists and first-time visitors are not a pity, they will find pictures on the Internet. It wasn't a part of their lives anyway. They don't even understand why the church is closed, haha... You have nothing to do here.

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Мария Морозова

Level 7 Local Expert

It is a very beautiful church with an interesting history. It is a pity that it is closed to the public by order of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus. They say that the removal of property has already begun in order to begin reconstruction. There are several interesting monuments around (Archangel Michael, Nagasaki Bell), snowdrops bloom on the lawns. There is an abbot's house in the courtyard (although the church is not functioning, it has an abbot).

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Дмитрий Исаев

Level 11 Local Expert

The main attraction of Minsk, the Red Church, looks very large and voluminous, beautiful architecture and the like, but there is one big BUT! IT's CLOSED (possibly forever), meaning you can't get inside, but it's solid outside *5*)))

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Настя

Level 13 Local Expert

Magnificent architecture, the Church fascinates with its beauty and mystery. It is a pity that the entrance has been closed for several years, let's hope that someday we will be able to visit this place and get to a concert of organ music (so be it!)

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619633 лесовникова

Level 9 Local Expert

The most memorable landmark of Minsk. Animal Square, nice to sit and admire the beauty of the fountains.

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Маша *

Level 22 Local Expert

It is a very beautiful place, you can take a lot of good and vivid photos, it is located on the square. We didn't go inside, and there were enough impressions outside.

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Анатол131

Level 5 Local Expert

The church looks like a "gingerbread house", like a "new model" - not a single brick with a chink!, not a speck!, not a crack! It's as if the church didn't survive the Second World Wars, the revolution, and the Soviet government...It has been closed for several years and, according to the caretaker (and they are the most informed people), it will be closed for another 2-3 years. Restoration and leapfrog with the ownership of the building itself....

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Alena N

Level 21 Local Expert

A stunning beautiful church with an interesting history! It's a pity it's just closed ((it was interesting to see how it's inside. There are beautiful stained glass windows on the windows, sculptures on the walls and around the perimeter are also beautiful)) I hope the next visit will be open..maybe they will make a museum, since it does not work out to keep it as a church.

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Валентина Вылеткова

Level 15 Local Expert

It's a beautiful place. A well-maintained church. A beautiful architectural monument. I haven't been inside, but it's impressive from the outside. I recommend you to visit.

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Жанна Мамедова

Level 8 Local Expert

It's very beautiful. I advise everyone. Such cleanliness, beautifully planted flowers. Near the House of Soviets. The central square. I advise you to visit Minsk.

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Олег

Level 15 Local Expert

Come in the evening, the lighting is gorgeous, everything inside is typical for Catholic churches, but it's better to take a guide, the history of the place itself is interesting.

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Екатерина

Level 15 Local Expert

The church is of indescribable beauty! The building is well maintained, it is a pity that it is closed to the public. If you go to the main entrance, there is a miniature of him there. I saw a guide with a group nearby, but clearly a city tour, not a local one. A place worth visiting!

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Илья Короваев

Level 22 Local Expert

A good place for spectacular photos and unforgettable impressions, where every detail creates an atmosphere of mystery and grandeur.

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Николай

Level 18 Local Expert

A very beautiful church in the city center with a tragic history of its appearance. Completely made of red brick. Figures of the Virgin Mary and the children of the founder of the church with neon lighting at night are installed around the perimeter. Among the disadvantages: The church was closed and it is currently unknown when it will begin to function further. I wanted to get inside and see from the inside

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Олег Белянов

Level 12 Local Expert

The most beautiful building. The architecture is fascinating. The entrance to the building is closed after known events. Sightseeing around, excursions - everything is interesting.

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Женя

Level 18 Local Expert

A very picturesque church, we lived nearby and walked past both in the afternoon and in the evening. It always looks very picturesque. There is a wonderful park nearby, you can just take a break and sit and contemplate.

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Инкогнито 1217

Level 9 Local Expert

It's a beautiful place and a church, I recommend you to visit, it's a pity that you couldn't go inside, it was located next to the hotel, we were happy to see it

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Кристина

Level 18 Local Expert

A beautiful place, a wonderful architectural monument! But it is a pity that it is closed and there is no way to evaluate the interior.…

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Евгения

Level 30 Local Expert

The beautiful architecture of this church attracts the eye very much, its convenient location in the very center of Minsk, close to the metro and other attractions.

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Андрей Трикозенко

Level 8 Local Expert

It's a very beautiful church, it's always nice to look at it, and considering that it's on the square, it immediately catches the eye. It can be said that this is one of the attractions of Minsk

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Ирина М.

Level 16 Local Expert

A beautiful majestic building with unusual architecture, very conveniently located. You get off the subway and admire this beauty. It's a pity, everything was closed, there was no way to get inside...

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gorinych

Level 17 Local Expert

Beautiful historical building in the city center. We managed to visit it back in Soviet times, when it was the "Cinema House". Even then it was an elite institution. Now it's an active church, and as a believer of another denomination, I don't visit it, but this is personal. One star minus is a parking problem.

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Alex Roks

Level 22 Local Expert

A beautiful building in the heart of Minsk.His story is very interesting, which we learned from our guide before going on a sightseeing tour of the city.It's a pity that they're not allowed inside yet.

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Светлана Закаблуковская

Level 6 Local Expert

We visited the Church for the first time, probably that's what it's called. My wife and I liked it. Almost like in a Russian Church, beautifully calm. I really liked the woman who opened the door for us and told us a lot of interesting things. It was very interesting to communicate with her. God grant her everything, everything.

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Александр Н.

Level 12 Local Expert

A beautiful place, one of the sights of Minsk, a convenient location. An interesting history of the Church. From it you can walk to the embankment, where there are many more beautiful places and attractions.

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Олег и Вера

Level 24 Local Expert

It's a very beautiful church. In a beautiful place in the center of Minsk. An interesting history of the creation of the temple.

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Александра Славина

Level 21 Local Expert

Of course, it is very beautiful and atmospheric! I was unlucky, at the time of the visit, the Church was closed for repairs.

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Игорь Р.

Level 19 Local Expert

It was not possible to get inside the church due to the fact that it was sealed (as they say from a small fire that happened). The exterior of the building is beautiful and beautiful, which has been preserved to this day.

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Михаил Врунгель

Level 14 Local Expert

The building is very interesting from the outside, and the history of the church's construction and life is also very interesting. But the church itself was closed for repairs, for the period June 2025.

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Anastasia-Zhishkovskaya

Level 6 Local Expert

It's a very beautiful place, it's a pity that we got to the moment when we couldn't enter the room because there was a competition, but there were still a lot of other things to see.

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Jim Svoy

Level 30 Local Expert

Until 1991, the former Cinema House. Then the main Catholic church in Minsk. Until 2020, weekly live broadcasts of the mass on the state radio were conducted from here. After the strange story of the alleged arson, the church is sealed.

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Ольга Кравец

Level 19 Local Expert

Catholic church in the center of Minsk, built in 1910 and consecrated in honor of Simeon and Elena.

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I L

Level 30 Local Expert

It can only be viewed from the outside. The architecture resembles castles from fairy tales. It is located on the main street. There is a small quiet courtyard with a fountain and a willow tree to the side of the church. It is very beautiful, as is the whole center of Minsk

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Катерина Родина

Level 26 Local Expert

There is a very beautiful church in the center. Red brick, beautiful and memorable architecture. One negative is closed, and even sealed. I was hoping to look inside or go to the organ, but it doesn't seem like fate.

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BoomBarashEgorov

Level 4 Local Expert

Just a place to visit, and then to the underground shopping center for sweets from Spartak, krasny pishchevik and kommunarka.

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Ninja

Level 12 Local Expert

It is very beautiful, but as far as I understand it does not work at the moment, but even from the outside it is already a delight to look at. Nearby there is a small pond with benches where you can relax

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Church of Saints Simon and Helena

683 reviews