Smorgon. Monument to Frantishek Bogushevich.

Frantishek Bogushevich was born in 1840 into an impoverished noble family. This famous poet lived for sixty years, of which he spent twenty years in Ukraine, where he lived and studied. Initially, Bogushevich entered the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics at St. Petersburg University, but after a few months he was expelled for participating in student meetings.

The poet wrote in both Polish and Belarusian, and his work is considered a symbol of friendship between peoples. However, his main contribution was the creation of new Belarusian literature. A talented publicist and a true patriot, Bogushevich became the founder of critical realism in Belarusian literature. He had a huge impact on Belarusian culture, portraying Belarusian peasants as noble and truthful. His works were characterized by firmness and energy, but they were not devoid of humor.

On September 6, 2009, on the sixteenth Day of Belarusian Writing, the first monument in Belarus to Frantishk Bogushevich was unveiled in the city of Smorgon, Grodno region. To loud applause and in the presence of government representatives, the veil was solemnly removed from the monument. The city also hosted other events dedicated to the celebration of the Day of Belarusian Writing, including awarding the winners of literary competitions, a book festival and a festive concert.

The poet's sculpture is located in the city center, opposite the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Lord and not far from the Smorgon Hotel. The height of the monument is almost four meters. The pedestal is made of gray granite, and the sculpture itself is cast in bronze. The statue depicts Bogushevich in a thoughtful pose with a book in his left hand. On his head is a straw hat, and a scroll is wrapped around a belt. The poet's gaze is directed into the distance, and the figure rests on a light gray stone.