Palace in Gomel and Old Believers’ Museum in Vetka

The Palace in style of Classicism recalls in memory the image of the St. Petersburg palaces. This place is indeed related to outstanding personalities of the Russian Empire. The county of Gomel was a gift from Catherine the Great to military commander Pyotr Rumyantsev for his remarkable victories over the Turks. What a nice, worthy gift! However, count Rumyantsev, who was used to hanging out in the capital, had no plans to live here. But to have a palace, in case of business trips to these places, seemed like a great idea to him.

Apart from the palace the Rumyantsev-Paskevich complex also includes St.Peter and Paul’s Cathedral and a miniature crypt. There is an old shady park full of romantic atmosphere around.

Not far from Gomel there is the Old Believers' museum in Vetka. No, it is not another one of the local history museums. This one is special. A distinctive one. A museum of spiritual culture.

You certainly haven't seen icons like that yet! Fiery red, flaming. The images are decorated with embroidery and the figures have an unusual volume. There are plenty of natural features: blooming gardens, herbs. Each icon is presented in a gorgeous iron or wooden icon frame. Even if you are far from religious topics, you will feel the joyful energy, power and life-affirming light coming from the local icons.

In addition to the secrets of Old Believers, an excellent collection of Belarusian ornaments awaits you. A guide will teach you how to understand these "secret signs”.

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