Sophia Cathedral in ancient Polack is the unique building, the first stone temple on the territory of Belarus.

This ancient temple was built in the eleventh century on the right shore of Western Dvina. The same temples just around that time were built in Kiev and Novgorod. The Polock Sophia was built upon the Cathedral in Constantinople. This temple has become a symbol of independence and power of Polock principality. Only fragments of the original building have remained to date because in eighteenth century it was destroyed by Russian forces. The process of reconstruction of the temple was leaded by famous architect Yan Hlaubits who was building and was reconstructing numerous temples of different confessions all over the country. Sophia Cathedral received traits of Vilnius Baroque. This architecture style steps forth as an original artistic phenomenon for Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Sophia Cathedral is presented on the List of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The temple amazes by its greatness and beauty. Its roof, front and window openings were renewed during its reconstruction in 2010−2013. Look into this pearl of Belarusian architectural art, look at ancient walls and stop in order to be filled with spirit of majestic antiquity.

Publication date: 07.08.2017.

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