The Park of Heroes of 1812 and the Governor`s Palace in Vitebsk are located on the high bank of the Western Dvina River, within walking distance of the Old Town. The Park is not just a green oasis in the center of Vitebsk; it preserves the memory of the events of the Patriotic War of 1812. At that time, Vitebsk became the stage for significant historical events as Napoleon`s troops passed through the city.
The Park of Heroes of 1812 was opened in 1912, when the Russian Empire celebrated the 100th anniversary of the victory in the Patriotic War of 1812 over Napoleon I. The centerpiece of the park is a monument dedicated to the events of 1812. It is a 26-meter granite obelisk topped with an eagle—a symbol of courage and victory. Around the monument, neatly laid paths, trees, and shrubs create a cozy atmosphere for strolls.
In 1944, a memorial cemetery was established here, where soldiers who died during the liberation of Vitebsk from German troops were buried. Vitebsk was occupied by German forces from July 1941 to June 1944. The city was at the epicenter of military actions, and its liberation became a crucial stage of Operation Bagration.
In memory of the soldiers who perished in 1944, a memorial cemetery was organized in the Park of Heroes of 1812. It holds the remains of over 400 Soviet soldiers who died during the liberation of Vitebsk. The cemetery features individual and collective graves, as well as memorial plaques with the names of the fallen.
The Governor`s Palace
Not far from the Park of Heroes of 1812 stands another iconic landmark of Vitebsk—the Governor`s Palace. This majestic building, constructed in 1772, is an example of classical architecture and one of the most beautiful structures in the city.
The Governor`s Palace was built during the period when Vitebsk became the center of a governorate. The building served as the residence for governors and hosted important state events. The architecture of the palace combines elements of classicism and baroque. Its façade is adorned with columns, stucco decorations, and arched windows.
During the war of 1812, the Governor`s Palace in Vitebsk hosted French Emperor Napoleon I. According to historical accounts, Napoleon spent several days in Vitebsk. He planned to let his army rest and wait out the winter but later decided to advance toward Smolensk and then Moscow. This decision ultimately led to the downfall of Napoleon`s Grand Army.
From the Soviet era until 1922, the Governor`s Palace housed the KGB administration of Vitebsk. The building was closed to the public. It retains elements of its historical interior, including beautiful staircases, painted ceilings, and antique fireplaces, but a full restoration of the palace will take considerable time. Plans are underway to open a museum and cultural space here, which will make the palace one of the most visited attractions in Vitebsk.
