Miory Regional Executive Committee

The northernmost region of Belarus will become the country's literary capital in early September. People of all ages and occupations will gather here for the Days of Belarusian Writing, with festive events scheduled for September 2 and 3. Acting as a hospitable and responsible host, the town of Horodok has been intensively preparing to welcome guests: schools, kindergartens, the House of Crafts, the library, residential buildings, and streets have undergone renovation. The work is already nearing completion, particularly as additional tasks were incorporated into the plan during implementation (following the availability of saved funds). Meanwhile, artisans continue to craft creative surprises, buildings are gaining a fresh appearance thanks to large-scale murals, and the town square is being enhanced with new installations. A name will soon be selected for the square following public discussion of the proposal. Correspondents observed how majestic and conceptually rich sculptures are taking shape from stone on one of the streets, how masters are expanding their souvenir product lines, and how the town as a whole is undergoing a comprehensive transformation.

Handmade Souvenir Gifts. What Will Be Available at the Artisan Markets

Work is underway in practically every corner of Horodok, but the main preparations are concentrated in the center. Here, within walking distance, are the main venues hosting the Days of Belarusian Writing events, where skilled craftsmen, with special care and dedication, create souvenir gifts for guests and participants of the major holiday. Pottery, ceramics, weaving, wickerwork, and straw braiding – there is much to showcase and take pride in, as many of these traditions originated on this land centuries ago. Today, they are carefully passed down to the younger generation.

Stepping inside the Horodok House of Crafts and Folklore, every office is filled with works. "We make baskets, coasters, magnets, bells, mugs, pots, plates featuring Belarusian symbols and wheat ears," introduces Marina Gushcha, head of the House of Crafts. "Here we have napkin sets, intricately embroidered towels, panels with straw appliqué, and souvenir dolls."

She stops at a panel crafted from wood, fabric, ceramics, and other elements, explaining that this idea has been with her for a long time. "As a weaver, I wanted to combine weaving with other materials. In my work, I use flax, straw, and rush—all natural materials. Naturally, wood and ceramics fit well here as well, since they share a similar warmth, and together they create a very harmonious appearance," she explains. According to the director, all souvenirs for the Day of Belarusian Literacy were selected with historical accuracy in mind: the event will feature items that were used centuries ago in the Horadok area.

Next to the miniature gifts on a large table rests a wooden book featuring a decorative inlay depicting Francysk Skaryna. It is currently undergoing final touches before being ceremonially presented to the host of the 2024 Day of Belarusian Literacy – Ivatsievichy. Marina Hushcha notes that the depiction of Belarus’s first printer was first stamped on copper and subsequently cast.

"Belarusian Gold" and a Mediator Between Earth and Bread

Residents learn the craft of willow weaving at the "Lozavik" workshop, located in an adjacent room. Its director, Vasily Simankovich, gladly and thoughtfully discusses the tradition of willow weaving in Horadok and the surrounding district. The craftsman employs a traditional spiral weaving technique, which has been inscribed on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Belarus (six local traditions in total hold the status of intangible cultural values).

"In the Horadok district, spiral weaving has been widely practiced since ancient times, as it constitutes an energy-saving storage technology for food and other products (seeding grain, cereals, smoked meats). The items were filled, covered with a lid, and functioned like a thermos, maintaining approximately constant humidity and temperature. Without sharp fluctuations, the products were well preserved. Such items were practically in the pantry of every family; initially, they were woven from roots, while willow was used more for transport. In Belarus, this has been the case since time immemorial. Generally speaking, straw is our Belarusian gold. There is also a philosophical undertone: straw is an intermediary between the earth and bread. And Belarusians actively used it even as a material for roofs, wove hats, made footwear, and beehives," says Vasily Simankovich.

The master notes that spiral weaving is more labor-intensive than conventional wickerwork. The work requires more time: besides processing straw, there is a separate stage for preparing willow strips, followed by the actual weaving process. "All the circle participants help me," he shares. "The circles include children, retirees, and persons with disabilities who attend together with other groups. Of course, we want this intangible cultural heritage—spiral weaving—to be represented in souvenir products. We have prepared small bowls such as these, into which ceramic items (jugs, mugs) will be placed, and together they will make up a gift. We also create collections of circle participants' works featuring spiral weaving. And I am continually adding to the collection so that more guests can become familiar with this craft."

"Promoting Our Traditions". A Belarusian Brand to Touch and Taste

About 150 souvenir dolls are produced by the "National Costume" club. The Belarusian figures will be dressed in national costumes, yet remain faceless, as was customary in ancient times. At that time, the dolls were not intended for play but served as protective amulets. "They were crafted without faces because it was believed that evil spirits could enter through them and cause harm to a person. A wide variety of dolls existed: a travel doll was gifted for journeys, a medicinal herb doll promoted health, aided sleep, and drove away evil spirits from infants. Today, these dolls have already become souvenirs and serve simply as interior decorations," explains Elena Orlova, head of the creative association.

In addition to the dolls, she sews soft horses slightly larger than a palm. Following ancient traditions, they feature round buttons on their legs, analogous to rocking horses, just in miniature. Those wishing to purchase such items will be offered specially sewn linen bags for packaging, which will also go on sale during the holiday. "As we are the House of Crafts, we promote our traditions so that people do not forget how their ancestors dressed; we create these souvenirs specifically in national costumes featuring our own symbols and embroidery. We strive to recreate elements as they were made in the past," Elena Orlova explains. "We have already made about 50 large dolls, and there will also be a considerable number of medium and small ones."

New lines of souvenirs will be released by early September by the House of Crafts, educational institutions of Gorodok, and the Territorial Center for Social Services for the Population. All parties have joined the production process: "We have just returned from the Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk, where our entire product range was sold out. Now we are required to replenish supplies at a rapid pace," the craftsmen explain with a smile.

At various times and throughout the day, people of silver age and individuals with disabilities work on creating their handmade collection. For them, the branch of the territorial center operates 27 hobby clubs and 5 vocational workshops. The festive stalls will feature bags of happiness, tote bags with cornflower motifs and the inscription "Gorodok-2023". Guests will also be offered bedding and bakery products from the "Good Bread" workshop that opened last year. "We bake two types of bread: yeast-free sourdough and 'Gorodok-style'. We are currently in the training phase and produce it for our own needs," representatives of the center stated. "In the future, we plan to put it up for sale. We intend to offer it at Literacy Day during a tasting event."

According to staff members, individuals with disabilities appreciate the opportunity to master new skills, which plays an important role in their vocational rehabilitation.

It should be noted that the concept of each item has been carefully developed here, with a focus on eco-friendly materials. "We are making thorough preparations for Literacy Day. Using eco-materials, we are producing numerous items themed around 'Taras on Parnassus': hats, protective bast shoes, horseshoe-shaped amulets, dolls, and book-shaped keychains—all crafted in the Belarusian style. We also manufacture brooches and earrings from genuine leather and turkey feathers. All these items are accounted for in our production schedule, and we aim to complete them in time for the holiday. Our assortment will include herbal sachets, decorative cushions, and kitchen mitts. Everything is designed to be practical for everyday use. Additionally, I plan to create acrylic paintings, which we will certainly showcase at Literacy Day. Organizing such an event brings considerable excitement and represents a significant responsibility for our city," explained Tatyana Pavlenok, head of the club.

"Beauty Will Be". Who Is Behind the Transformation of Gorodok

In recent days, the municipal park adjacent to the administration building has seen increased foot traffic. However, the area is currently occupied primarily by construction crews rather than tourists. Workers nearby are relaying paving stones, while in the center of the park, a foundation is being prepared for a small architectural installation—a large sculpture depicting an ABC book. Wrought-iron figures will be installed in several designated locations, according to Alexey Kuzmich, Head of Housing and Utilities at the Gorodok Boiler Rooms and Thermal Networks Enterprise. Additionally, the fountain will be made shallower and equipped with a safety barrier, thereby enhancing visitor safety.

Work progresses steadily from early morning until late at night, without weekends. "We have very little time, but there is a great deal to manage," Alexey Kuzmich notes. "Significant visual improvements will be implemented. Wrought-iron benches will subsequently be installed in the park. All items have been procured and are awaiting deployment."

The enterprise serves as the main contractor for urban beautification works. All resources are currently dedicated to this task, as completion is required by August 15. Consequently, approximately 200 employees of the organization are engaged in the beautification of all sites. Scheduled maintenance works are being carried out concurrently.

"First, we are carrying out routine repairs: according to the plan for Literacy Day, 37 buildings were scheduled, and only a few remain. Beautification of the park, paving on Sovetskaya Street, repair works at the "Bessmertie" memorial complex, plus landscaping activities," he lists. "And workers are clearing all paving stones and pathways of any minor vegetation. In total, about Br900 thousand is allocated for the year for maintenance and beautification. Asphalt concrete is also being laid on Burlygi, Marx, and Vokzalnaya streets. Valieva Street is being top-dressed with asphalt granulate. Details regarding Molodezhnaya and Tolkacheva streets are being worked out. Roughly speaking, two to three days are allocated per street."

As a city resident, Alexey Kuzmich is particularly pleased to observe its transformation. "Any positive changes are welcome. Gorodok is a compact town where everyone knows each other. It will look beautiful, and it will only remain to maintain cleanliness and order in the future," he assures.

"A Composite Image of My Visual Experience": Students Discuss Stone Figures That Will Decorate Gorodok Park

For nearly a month, second- and third-year students of the Belarusian State Academy of Arts have been staying in Haradok. During their summer practice, the future artists had the honor of creating sculptures for the square. They note that the assignment is both responsible and pleasant, as their stone works will decorate the local landscape for many years to come. “Seven of us arrived here; six are carving figures on the courts, while one is working elsewhere on a composition consisting of fibroconcrete letters,” shares Anastasia Sipach. “Working with stone requires great care. A single incorrect movement can cause it to split; cracks are already visible on my piece. However, this particular stone was prone to cracking from the start. In general, working with stone is the simplest. If I had to choose between wood and metal, stone remains the most pleasant and comfortable material.”

Initially, each of the young people prepared several sketches related to Belarus and Literacy Day. The most interesting ideas, according to the commission, were approved. A handshake between two people as a symbol of agreement, a “Zubr” composition, a flat stone with the words “Haradok” and “Belarus” carved on both sides, a collective image of a prince and a chronicler—a series of figures that will delight residents and guests.

“A bird held in hands is depicted here—a rather conventional theme,” says the student about her sculpture. “It is a symbol of faith, of something new—a young bird in old, frail hands. It will be a symbolic monument where everyone will see something of their own. It is simply a composite image drawn from my visual experience. Actually, I really enjoy this kind of practice. I am glad to be here. At a young age, I was fortunate to participate in such an event, and my work will stand here for decades. By the way, I plan to visit Haradok for Belarusian Literacy Day.”

Third-year student Anton Gursky will present the town of Horodok with a sculpture of a chronicler. It will represent a composite image. "The figure serves as a symbol of my interpretation of Belarusian literature and history. The sculpture is three-dimensional and circular, designed to be viewed from all angles. This is a small sketch," he indicates, pointing to the miniature mounted on the stone. "Working with stone requires determination and patience. It is challenging, yet worthwhile. I am pleased to have been able to take part, contribute my input, and share my artistic vision."

According to the aspiring sculptor, he had not previously taken part in projects of such scale, which made his involvement particularly engaging. He noted that weather conditions proved less than ideal, as Horodok experienced rather stormy weather during this period. The students faced both heavy rainfall and scorching sun. Consequently, progress has been somewhat slower than anticipated, largely due to these meteorological factors.

The sculptures are scheduled to be relocated to the park area on August 11, where dedicated platforms have been prepared for their installation.

Residents of the modest town of Horodok, with a population of just over 11,500, are confident that the region will appeal to even the most discerning visitor. Local pride is particularly focused on natural resources, as forests cover more than 44 percent of the district’s territory and the landscape is dotted with 162 lakes. Several of these water bodies will be featured for guests attending the Day of Belarusian Script, following the special revision of tourism routes ahead of the celebration.

"We have developed 29 tourism routes across various categories: cultural and educational, religious, gastronomic, military-historical, and nostalgic. These routes vary by mode of travel, including walking, water-based, cycling, and automobile options. We also provide entertainment programs, quests, and masterclasses at the House of Crafts and Folklore. Six routes will be presented to visitors during the main event, though this does not preclude the use of the remaining options," clarified Alla Grigorieva, Chief Specialist of the Sports and Tourism Sector at the Horodok District Executive Committee.

The main route will be the one dedicated to the author of the poem "Taras on Parnassus", writer Konstantin Varynitsyn, titled "Through Varynitsyn's Places". It begins in Gorodok and encompasses numerous key sites within the district: memorial markers near the museum, a monument to the poem's protagonist in the town square, after which tourists proceed to the writer’s birthplace – the village of Ostrovlany. "We have updated this route by incorporating tourist attractions along the way, such as our renowned natural landmark—the Giant Oak," she added. "Additionally, attractions can be explored at the Tourist and Recreation Complex "Losvido". A cultural coordinator at the complex may guide visitors along the famous "Napoleon's Trail"—another highly interesting and popular route, as it follows the shores of Lake Losvido".

The total round-trip distance of the route is 35 km and takes approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on the mode of travel. Other options available to visitors include water excursions across the lakes. The 9-kilometer route, named "Pearls of Gorodok", traverses three lakes—Lugovoe, Orekhovoy, and Shcherbakovsky—and begins at the roller-ski track. "The lakes are situated in a scenic location—the Vorobyovy Gory nature tract, which is distinguished not only by its sporting infrastructure but also by cultural landmarks," emphasizes Alla Grigorieva. "The route features the Memorial Complex "Pantheon of Memory"; on an island between two lakes stands the residence of Snegurochka, host to our renowned festivals "Taras on Parnassus" and "Gourmet Marathon", as well as theatrical performances".

The Gorodok District will welcome guests with a pure and open heart and extend its full hospitality, assures Irina Polyakova, Chairperson of the District Executive Committee. She noted that the observance of the Day of Belarusian Writing provides the town with an opportunity to become even more appealing to both locals and visitors. "We are making preparations to ensure the celebration is held at the highest possible standard. Our goal is to highlight our unique charm," she specified. "To achieve this, we are exerting maximum effort".

Source: vitebsk-region.gov.by