The Church of the Holy Virgin Mary is located on Freedom Square in the center of Minsk. It is one of the oldest and most significant Catholic churches in Belarus. The church is built in the Baroque style, and its beautiful façade forms a beautiful architectural ensemble together with other churches in Minsk`s Upper Town.
The Church of the Holy Virgin Mary was constructed between 1700 and 1710 as part of a Jesuit monastery, which played an important role in the religious and educational life of Minsk. The Jesuits, invited to the city in the early 17th century, established a collegium here and later began the construction of this majestic church. The church became one of the first Baroque buildings in Minsk.
After the dissolution of the Jesuit order in 1773, the church was transferred to other Catholic orders. In the 19th century, the church was handed over to the Catholic community of Minsk and consecrated in honor of the Holy Virgin Mary. During the Soviet period, like many other religious buildings, the church was closed and repurposed for secular use. In 1993, the church was returned to the Catholic community, and religious services resumed.
The Church of the Holy Virgin Mary is an example of Baroque architecture, impressive for its rich decoration. Its façade is adorned with decorative elements: pilasters, niches, sculptures, and stucco work. Two tall towers, crowned with domes, give the church a majestic appearance and make it one of the dominant features of Freedom Square.
The main entrance is particularly noteworthy. Above it is a sculptural composition depicting the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus. The interior is designed in the best traditions of Baroque: high vaults, stained glass windows, elegant arches, paintings, and gilding. The altar is decorated with carvings and sculptures and serves as the central element of the interior. Above the altar is an image of the Holy Virgin Mary.
The frescoes adorning the walls and ceiling of the church are especially remarkable. They depict biblical scenes and saints. Today, the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary is an active place of worship, where regular services are held in Belarusian and Polish. It also serves as a venue for organ music concerts.
