Minsk was founded on the right bank of the Svisloch more than 900 years ago. The name of the city is associated with the Menka that flowed into the Ptych which is not far from the city. But the legend says that there was Minsk or epic bogatyr Menesk who gave the name to modern Minsk. In one more interpretation the name “Minsk” derives from the word “mena” as in ancient times there was a barter place – a trade market. That is why at the beginning this city was called Mensk, Menjsk and then Minsk.

Modern Minsk is a big industrial and cultural centre of the republic, it is an important road junction. Its population is about 2 million. There are the Academy of Sciences of Belarus, 14 institutions of higher education, 10 museums, 10 showrooms where one can find exhibits which tell about history of belarussian people, treasures of culture and art, materials of life and work of outstanding people.

Cinemas. There are 23 cinemas in Minsk. The largest and the most beautiful are “the Moscow” and “the October”. “The Pioneer” is at the disposal of young audience. Exhibitions and discos are also held in cinemas.

Theatres, circus, philharmonic. There are 10 theatres, circus, philharmonic society in Minsk. The Yanka Kupala theatre was founded at the beginning of the existence of the republic. The State Opera and Ballet theatre, the State Gorky Russian Drama theatre are known both in our republic and abroad.

Parks, public gardens, botanical garden. Taking into account the quantity of parks, public gardens, boulevards, gardens one can consider about cosiness, hospitality and culture of the city. There are 12 parks, 18 boulevards, 126 public gardens, a botanical garden in Minsk.

The Cheluskintsev amusement park. It occupies an area of 78 hectares. The park was founded in May, 1932. It is a central park of the city.

Gorky Park. It is the oldest park in the city. The park was founded in 1805 ( former the Governor’s garden). The area of the garden is 28 hectares. One can find here an indoor scating-rink, rides, an amusement arcade, a planetarium, the monument to Gorky.

Victory Park. It was founded in 1945. The area of the park is 10 hectares. “The Komsomolskoe” lake is in the centre of the park with the area of 40 hectares.

Y.Kupala Park. It was built in 1962. The area of the park is 10 hectares. There are the monument to Yanka Kupala, a sculptural fountain “Venok”, a literary museum.

Central public garden. It was founded in 1932. The area of the botanical garden is 92,8 hectares. The botanical garden is an original museum of plants from different parts of the world. Citizens of Minsk and guests like to rest here.Our city will always meet you with smile, warm-hearted hospitality, care!