21 Interesting Facts about Belarus: History, Culture, Travel

1. The Bison Population in Belarus: A Historic Resurgence

Belarus, a country nestled in Eastern Europe, boasts a remarkable natural phenomenon – the resurgence of Europe’s largest land animal, the bison. This majestic creature, once on the brink of extinction, has found refuge in the expansive Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, situated within the Bialowieza Forest in south-western Belarus. Delving into history, Sara Evans, a notable figure, unearthed the past plight of these creatures. She recounts a time when bison roamed freely across Europe. However, by the 15th century, their numbers dwindled to near extinction. Merely a few hundred individuals were spared, finding sanctuary in royal hunting grounds, where they were nurtured and protected. Today, approximately 800 bison roam the vast expanse of Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, a testament to the resilience of nature and the dedicated conservation efforts undertaken.

2. Belarus: A Land Steeped in History and Independence

Belarus, a land steeped in history and culture, occupies a significant place in Eastern Europe. Formerly known as Belorussia or White Russia, it emerged as an independent nation in 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Before this historic moment, Belarus existed as the smallest of the three Slavic republics within the Soviet Union, alongside its larger counterparts, Russia and Ukraine. Its journey to independence marked a pivotal moment in its history, symbolizing the aspirations of its people for self-determination and sovereignty. Today, Belarus stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of its populace, navigating the complexities of nationhood while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

3. Belarus-Russia Relations and Diplomacy

Belarus has fostered strong ties with Russia, its formidable neighbor, since gaining independence. The signing of the Union State Foundation Treaty in 1999 aimed to forge a politically intertwined confederation with a shared currency. However, the precise nature of this partnership remained ambiguous well into the twenty-first century. This enduring relationship between Belarus and Russia remains a cornerstone of Belarusian foreign policy, shaping its diplomatic landscape and geopolitical stance on the global stage.

4. Soviet Legacy and Contemporary Belarus

The imprint of Belarus’s Soviet past lingers, casting a shadow over its contemporary landscape. This enduring legacy manifests in the country’s bureaucratic structures and the enduring influence of communist ideologies. Despite the dissolution of the Soviet Union, remnants of its authoritarian administration endure, shaping Belarusian governance and societal norms. Notably, Minsk, the nation’s capital, stands as a testament to resilience, having risen from the ashes of near-destruction during World War II. Today, it thrives as a bustling metropolis, emblematic of Belarus’s journey through tumultuous historical epochs.

5. EPAM: A Pillar in IT Industry

EPAM, a prominent figure on the New York Stock Exchange, stands tall in the realm of Information Technology, boasting an impressive annual turnover surpassing the $1 million mark. Renowned for its innovation and global reach, this company serves as a beacon of success within the IT sector. Among its notable achievements is its association with Wargaming, the esteemed developer behind the widely acclaimed game, World of Tanks. With a workforce exceeding 6,000 individuals and a staggering global user base of 120 million, EPAM exemplifies excellence and ingenuity in the digital landscape. Its impact reverberates across industries, shaping the future of technology and setting benchmarks for aspiring enterprises worldwide.

6. Uladzislau Hancharou: The Trampoline Phenomenon

In the grand arena of the Olympics, where athletes strive for glory, one individual stands out as a testament to skill and determination. Uladzislau Hancharou, a luminary in the realm of trampoline gymnastics, ascends to greatness with each gravity-defying leap. Despite Belarus’ modest tally of gold medals in recent Olympic editions, Hancharou shines as a lone star, showcasing unparalleled prowess and finesse on the trampoline. His feats inspire awe and admiration, underscoring the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the spirit of athleticism.

7. Belarusian Ruble: Navigating Economic Turbulence

In the economic landscape of Belarus, recent times have witnessed a peculiar phenomenon—a surge in millionaires amidst currency turmoil. The Belarusian ruble, plagued by rampant inflation, has undergone significant devaluation, with its value plummeting to staggering lows. The erosion of purchasing power has prompted a paradigm shift, with citizens resorting to alternative currencies for stability. The euro emerges as a refuge, with its exchange rate soaring to unprecedented levels, reaching up to 25,000 Belarusian rubles per unit.

Faced with this volatility, Belarusians adapt, recalibrating their financial calculus and denoting prices in dollars to circumvent currency fluctuations. Amidst this turbulence, a denomination in July 2016 brought temporary respite, albeit at the cost of four rubles being excised from the currency. Yet, amidst the chaos, a semblance of order emerges—counting becomes more straightforward, as one euro equates to a mere two rubles, offering a semblance of stability in uncertain times.

8. Birch Tree Sap: Nature’s Panacea

In the verdant forests of Belarus, nestled amidst towering birch trees, lies a timeless remedy cherished by villagers—the sap of the birch tree. Revered for its purported healing properties, this natural elixir is believed to possess the ability to alleviate an array of ailments, from the throes of gout to respiratory afflictions. Passed down through generations, the tradition of tapping birch trees for their sap endures, a testament to the enduring wisdom of folk medicine. For the denizens of Belarus, this age-old practice serves as a poignant reminder of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature, where the bounties of the forest offer solace and healing to those in need.

9. Belarusian Tech Marvels: Innovation on the Global Stage

In the realm of digital innovation, Belarus leaves an indelible mark with its contributions to the global tech landscape. The ubiquitous messaging application Viber, revered as the third most popular messenger worldwide, finds its origins in Belarus, captivating millions with its seamless interface and robust features. Its acquisition by the Japanese e-commerce juggernaut Rakuten for a staggering $900,000 underscores the prowess of Belarusian tech entrepreneurship. Moreover, the nation boasts the creation of Masquerade, an app that adds a whimsical touch to selfies with animated masks—a testament to Belarus’ ingenuity in the realm of augmented reality. Facebook’s acquisition of Masquerade in 2016, following its meteoric rise with over 10 million downloads, further solidifies Belarus’ position as a hub of technological innovation.

10. Belarusian Sporting Prowess: Triumphs on the Global Stage

In the annals of sporting history, Belarus stands tall, a testament to the adage that size does not dictate prowess. The nation’s athletes, revered and celebrated by their compatriots, have etched their names in the annals of sporting excellence with remarkable achievements across a plethora of disciplines. From the icy arenas of biathlon to the adrenaline-fueled slopes of freestyle skiing, Belarusian athletes dazzle with their prowess and tenacity. The nation’s sporting legacy transcends borders, with notable accomplishments in hockey, football, rowing, wrestling, athletics, shooting, swimming, and rhythmic gymnastics, among others. Each triumph resonates with the pride and resilience of a nation, underscoring Belarus’ unwavering commitment to sporting excellence on the global stage.

11. Belarus: More Than Just Potatoes

Belarus has earned a reputation for more than just its abundant potato fields and tractor-laden landscapes. Nestled in Eastern Europe, it stands out for being one of the continent’s poorest nations in terms of overall wealth. Under the authoritarian rule of Alexander Lukashenko, often dubbed the last dictator in Europe, Belarus has garnered international attention for its political climate. Despite its economic challenges, Belarus boasts the lowest unemployment rate in Europe, a fact often surprising to many who perceive it solely through the lens of poverty. It’s important to note that Belarus maintains its sovereignty and is not a territory of Russia, despite historical and cultural ties between the two nations.

12. Unearthing Riches: Belarusian Treasures

Belarus’s history is marked by a tapestry of conflicts, both significant and minor, that have played out across its lands over the centuries. This tumultuous past has left behind a legacy that suggests the presence of numerous riches waiting to be discovered beneath the surface. The country’s soil, steeped in layers of history, whispers tales of forgotten treasures, hinting at the wealth that lies hidden within. With each passing year, Belarus continues to unveil archaeological finds, offering glimpses into its storied past. The emblem of the Belarusian SSR, adorned with inscriptions in four languages, serves as a poignant reminder of the nation’s rich heritage.

13. Belarus: A Crossroads of Nations

Situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe, Belarus shares borders with Ukraine, Poland, Russia, Lithuania, and Latvia. Despite the close proximity between its capital, Minsk, and the Lithuanian city of Vilnius, spanning just 188 kilometers, Belarusians find themselves navigating the bureaucratic hurdle of visa requirements to enter their neighboring country. This geographical proximity belies the complexities of political and diplomatic relations that shape the interactions between Belarus and its neighbors, highlighting the nuances of regional dynamics in Eastern Europe.

14. Belarus: A Hub of Intellectual Achievement

Belarus boasts a remarkable intellectual legacy, with five Nobel Laureates hailing from its midst. Among these luminaries is Svetlana Alexievich, who received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2015 for her poignant literary works, capturing the essence of human experiences in the Soviet and post-Soviet eras. Zhores Alferov, honored with the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2000, made groundbreaking contributions to semiconductor technology. In the realm of peace, Belarus has seen recognition from laureates like Shimon Peres and Menachem Begin, both awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in fostering peace in the Middle East. Additionally, Simon Kuznets, awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1971, contributed significantly to the field of economic growth and development. These laureates exemplify Belarus’s profound impact on various spheres of knowledge and global affairs.

15. Culinary Delights of Belarus

Belarusian cuisine offers a diverse tapestry of flavors, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and agricultural abundance. Traditional meals cherished by Belarusians today include hearty dishes like pork stew, known as machanka, and vereshchaka, alongside delicacies like handmade sausages and draniki, thick potato pancakes that tantalize the taste buds. Kolduny and kletski, savory dumplings bursting with flavor, are also beloved staples of Belarusian cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, babka, a baked grated potato pie, provides a delectable indulgence. To refresh the palate, cold sorrel soup and mushroom soup offer comforting warmth, showcasing the versatility and depth of Belarusian culinary traditions.

16. Scaling New Heights in Belarus

While Belarus may not boast the towering peaks found in mountainous regions, it still offers landscapes of serene beauty and gentle elevation. Dzyarzhynskaya Hara, though its name may pose a challenge after a few drinks, stands as the highest point in Belarus, rising 345 meters (1,130 feet) above sea level. Despite its modest height compared to the soaring summits of other regions, Dzyarzhynskaya Hara offers breathtaking views and serves as a testament to Belarus’s natural landscape, inviting visitors to explore its scenic vistas and tranquil surroundings.

17. Technological Pioneers: Skype and Viber

Skype, a ubiquitous platform for online communication, owes its origins to Estonian innovators. However, Belarusians and Israelis joined forces to create its main competitor, Viber, which made its debut in 2010. This collaborative effort between Belarusian and Israeli developers led to the establishment of a research center for Viber in Minsk. The rivalry between these two communication giants underscores the ingenuity and global impact of Eastern European tech talent, with each platform vying for dominance in the realm of digital communication.

18. Belarus: A Tapestry of History

Belarus, nestled in Eastern Europe, carries a rich historical legacy. Formerly known as Belorussia or White Russia, it emerged as the smallest among the three Slavic republics within the Soviet Union. In 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Belarus seized its independence, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This newfound sovereignty paved the way for the nation to chart its course, free from the constraints of Soviet rule, and assert its unique cultural identity on the global stage.

19. Belarus: The Eastern European Gaming Hub

Often likened to the Las Vegas of Eastern Europe, Belarus boasts a thriving gaming industry with a plethora of casinos dotting its landscape. The allure of Belarusian casinos intensified when gambling was prohibited in neighboring Russia, prompting the establishment of numerous gambling establishments within Belarusian borders. This influx of casinos not only bolstered the nation’s tourism sector but also attracted a significant number of Russian visitors seeking their fortunes in the vibrant gaming halls of Belarus. The burgeoning gaming industry serves as a testament to Belarus’s evolving identity as a hub of entertainment and leisure in Eastern Europe.

20. A Haven of Safety

Minsk, the capital of Belarus, emerges as a beacon of safety and security, offering residents and visitors alike a tranquil environment in which to live and thrive. According to Numbeo’s ranking of risky cities, Minsk secured the impressive position of 351st out of 378 cities, cementing its status as the safest city in the former Soviet Union. This accolade reflects the city’s low crime rates and the effective measures implemented to ensure public safety. Beyond Minsk’s borders, Belarus as a whole ranks among the safest countries in the world, further enhancing its reputation as a peaceful and secure nation where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. RPM 3.0 – 60% CONVERSION & Money for Affiliate Marketing

21. Belarusian Palates: A Taste for Fine Spirits

Belarusians possess a discerning palate, with a penchant for a variety of alcoholic beverages sourced from around the globe. While wine and brandy hold a special place in Belarusian culture, champagne, known locally as sparkling wine, is also highly prized for its effervescence and celebratory nature. Additionally, Belarusians indulge in a range of strong alcoholic beverages, including vodka, whiskey, rum, and tequila, imported from nations renowned for their distillation expertise. These libations serve as companions for social gatherings, festive occasions, and moments of relaxation, embodying Belarusian hospitality and appreciation for the finer things in life.