October Square and the Palace of Republic

October Square in Minsk is one of the central squares of the city, with lots of attractions. Tourists can find here the Palace of the Republic and the sign of "Milepost Zero", which signifies the geographical heart of the city. October Square is also adjacent to the Central House of Officers, the Residence of the President, the National Academic Yanka Kupala Theatre and many other sightseeings. 

Besides, the largest fountain in Minsk is located on October Square. Initially, the square was referred to as ‘Central', because of its purpose, and the construction of it was carried out from 1949 to 1950. Until 1970 this space functioned as a place where military parades, as well as demonstrations and parades of workers, were held. Raised government tribunes made October square the main square of the city. However, October square lost this status after the construction of the Palace of the Republic, which lasted for 17 years, was launched. The project of the Palace was born in 1980, while its implementation began in 1985 and continued until 2001. Such a slow pace of construction was caused by the deterioration of the economic situation due to the collapse of the USSR. By the way, the Palace of the Republic was built in the place where a beautiful building of the XVIII century, made in the Empire style, used to be. 

The Palace of the Republic looks neat, compact and impressive at the same time. Its total area is 13 hectares, while the building rises above the October Square by 45 meters, going underground for another 20 meters. All the latest achievements in domestic and foreign practices were taken into account in the process of construction. The technological equipment of the building makes it a great choice to host international congresses, conferences and other social and political events. 

Multiple ways of usage are connected with the multi-functionality of the building: here you can find a billiard complex, a cafe, conference rooms which can accommodate many people, an art gallery, and much more.

How to get there: metro ‘Oktiabrskaya', 'Kupalovskaya’; buses 100, 101 (the bus stop is located nearby the Nezavisimosti Avenue), minibuses 1063, 1064, 1076, 1076, 1119, 1151, 1152, 1280, 1318, 1547.