Zhitkovichi

Introduction

Despite a 507-year-long history, Zhitkovichi received the status of a town only in 1971. There is a large brown coal field in the outskirts, which promises the town fairly good development prospects.

Geographic information

History

Zhitkovichi was first mentioned in Lithuanian Metrics in 1500 as an estate in the Great Principality of Lithuania. After the Great Principality of Lithuania and Poland formed a commonwealth, Zhitkovichi became part of Rzech Pospolita. In 1793 it was annexed to the Russian Empire.

The construction of a railway line in 1886 gave Zhitkovichi a fresh development impetus.

Zhitkovichi was officially granted the status of a town in October 1971.

Famous people

One of the most outstanding sons of Zhitkovichi land is Belarusian enlightener and clergyman Kirill of Turov.

The main places of interest in Zhitkovichi are the Holy Trinity Church, St Joseph Cathedral and the Church of St Paraskeva Pyatnitsa.

An ancient town of Turov is located 25 km away from Zhitkovichi. One of the most prominent monuments of architecture in Turov is the All Saints Church (1810) situated in the downtown and St Boris and Gleb’s chapel. A memorial installed to mark the 1000^th anniversary of Turov can be found in the downtown. A museum of local history, culture and lore is situated near the memorial.

Turov’s Castle Hill that used to host a stone church that was later destroyed by an earthquake features an exposition called Old Turov. The archeological exposition covered with a glass roof contains the ruins of the old castle, weapons, other ancient objects.

Landmark

Events

On September 7 Zhitkovichi and Turov host the festivals of chamber music and brass bands (director Mikhail Finberg).

Infrastructure

Zhitkovichi has a hotel called Polesse.

Tourist potential

Zhitkovichi is a suitable destination for tourists keen on history and travelers who prefer modern attractions.

Tours

Zhitkovichi is part of numerous excursions and tourist routes to Turov (the capital of an ancient principality) and Pripyatski National Park.

• Accomodation
  • Hotels
• Food
• Nature
  • Lakes
  • Hunting