Travel Guide Mir (Мi̇р)

This charming little town in the middle of the Belarusian countryside is a veritable city-museum dominated by its elegant castle, the pearl of medieval architecture. First mentioned in the Chronicles in 1395, the city is invaded and destroyed by the Crusaders. Legend tells us that a detachment of tatars warriors was here with his Amir, and that is where the name of the city, Mir, comes from. Its history is linked to that of the Radziwill family, which reigns there from 1569, transforming it into the th and th centuries in a thriving commercial and artisan centre. In 1579, Mir partially received the right of Magdeburg, thus attracting artisans and traders of all nationalities. Mir has always been characterized by a strong ethnic mix. Tatars, Jews, Belarusians and gypsies lived peacefully for centuries. At the Market Square, today square 17 Veriasnia was the synagogue, the Catholic and Orthodox churches and a mosque. Unfortunately, it no longer exists. Near Minsk, Mir is an enchanting place and deserves a visit.About 25 km from Mir is the village of Iškold (Ишкольд). After Mir, take the road towards Palaniečka; at the exit of the village turn left, and after 7 km you will reach Iškold, a village lost in the countryside. Here, in the middle of wooden huts, is the Catholic church of the Trinity, the oldest of the country, an excellent example of the perfectly preserved Gothic Gothic (early th century). To visit, if only to grasp the contrast between the magnificence of this church and the destitution of the countryside surrounding it.