SemiramisTour, Incoming Tour Operation
       
 

Main » News

26.01.10 Style of the age

Not every lover of history can immediately identify the link between dukes Gedemin, Olgerd, Jagailo, khans Tokhtamysh and Devlet Hajji Giray, the English Earl of Northumberland and the head of the 1794 rebellion — Tadeusz Kościuszko. In fact, all are united by Medieval Lida Castle (Grodno region, Belarus), whose walls witnessed outstanding deeds. The 14th–15th century pearl was built on the order of Duke Gedemin (who ruled over the Grand Duchy of Lithuania). In 1323, he ordered the stone castle be built to withstand crusader attacks (a common problem of the time).

The site is unique and well chosen, being located on an artificial sand and gravel island where the small River Kamenka meets the Lidea. A European defensive castle was taken as its model, adapted to local traditions and conditions. Eventually, four trapeze lined walls were erected on the island, the largest facing north — where attacks were most common. To ensure maximum security, a deep moat was dug in front, while towers were built in two corners and two walls had gates. The small gates (‘fortka’) were used daily, while the large ones were used only for solemn entrances. According to historical documents, the lower floor of the castle hosted a jail, with a court and archive located above it. Living quarters were located on the upper floors and several wells were found in the yard.

The grand building survived for several centuries, despite being attacked many times. However, in 1702, a Swedish army used explosives on its towers and the castle gradually fell into neglect. The last time it was used for its intended purpose was during the 1794 rebellion, led by Tadeusz Kościuszko; later, it was empty for a long time.


In the 20th century, there were attempts to restore the caste — with certain success. At present, this true pearl of history in the centre of Lida is used as a museum and a venue for concerts and festivals. The wedding of Duke Jagailo is re-enacted by Lida Historical Art Museum staff. According to chronicles, he married several times, with two wedding ceremonies taking place in Lida Castle. Tourists love watching the performance. The Castle is set to offer even more delights once its reconstruction is complete.


Famous Belarusian artist Napoleon Orda’s sketches are a help to architects. However, these do not always coincide with archaeological findings. The artist was known as an inventor, often depicting nonexistent objects. Engravings of ancient Grodno also help — enabling specialists to feel and recreate the style of the age.


More news

07.09.2012

Belarusian militiamen participated in a special operation in Germany

08.05.2012

Perfect venue

02.03.2012

Allures of enlightment

18.07.2011

Pearl in the centre of Europe

31.03.2011

Grape-vine images

03.01.2011

We're Far from European Democracy, Lukashenko

21.10.2010

IN FUTURE UNDERSTANDING THE PAST

12.07.2010

More than 470 drunk drivers were detained in Belarus in weekend

17.05.2010

Over the bridge built by Kardius

28.05.2009

Renaissance a la Gucci

13.03.2009

Seven wonders of Schuchin

19.01.2009

Factory of Giants Picks up Steam

19.08.2008

To have a rest and to heal? You are welcome!

17.06.2008

In a slavic hunt style

02.05.2008

Visa procedure simplified

13.02.2008

New old pages of family tree

07.07.2007

Our Station in Antarctica

15.05.2007

Secret Chants of Ivan Kirchuk

26.03.2007

Meeting in Broad Daylight

07.02.2007

From Kobrinka to Kobrin

11.12.2006

CHRISTMAS - NEW YEAR

30.10.2006

Fish stands of Komarovsky market richer than those in Hamburg

05.09.2006

Access to Interpol

28.08.2006

The confessions traditional in Belarus

14.08.2006

Passport, please

07.08.2006

Opening with a Coronation

26.05.2006

2,000 marriages are effected in Minsk every year

19.04.2006

New sculptures in Minsk

10.04.2006

Stalin Line