TOP 10 temples of defensive type in Belarus.

TOP 10 fortress temples of Belarus: impregnable shrines.

Belarus, which has been in the crosshairs of wars for centuries, has become the birthplace of unique defensive temples.

1. Chernavchitsy. Trinity Church (Brest region) It was built with the participation of Italian and Swiss craftsmen. The absence of a dome was compensated by a round tower with a spiral staircase and pedimented loopholes.

2. Synkovichi. St. Michael's Church (Grodno region) is an ancient fortified temple with 1.5–meter walls, towers and a system of loopholes. The upper "lantern" served as an observation post.

3. Gnezno. St. Michael's Church (1524-1527) has retained its Gothic-Renaissance appearance: red brick walls, narrow windows and a tall tower.

4. Murovanka. The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin (Grodno region) is a standard of defensive architecture: 2-meter-high walls, towers and "voice chambers" that create unique acoustics.

5. Ishkold. Holy Trinity church (Brest region) is a laconic Gothic "fortress" on a hill, once surrounded by a rampart and a stone fence.

6. Pervomaisk. The Calvinist church (XVI century) with 1,5 meter thick walls is a witness of the Reformation era, now abandoned.

7. Bykhov Synagogue (Mogilev region) is a rare example of a defensive Jewish shrine with a tower and a system of loopholes.

8. Zaslavl. The Transfiguration Cathedral (XVI century) on the territory of the bastion is surrounded by ramparts and moats, with a watchtower.

9. Smorgon. St. Michael's Church (17th century) – changed denominations, but retained its "citadel" appearance with twin towers.

10. Kamai. St. John the Baptist Church (Vitebsk region) – has been operating since the 16th century! Swedish cannonballs from the time of the Northern War have been preserved in the walls.

These temples are the silent witnesses of history, where prayer and defense went hand in hand. Their walls remember the echoes of battles, and today they are open to anyone who appreciates the legacy of the past.