Monastyrshchina: Museum and Memorial Sites

• Heroes’ Alley opened in 2007 in the center, at the foot of the monument to A. I. Koldunov.
• A T-34 stands on a pedestal at the southeastern edge of town, at a site of fierce fighting during the liberation.
• A memorial at the old Smolensk road commemorates the liberation of Monastyrshchinsky District in September 1943.
• The local history museum’s program includes excursions, exhibitions, lectures, and museum classes.

Heroes’ Alley opened on October 13, 2007, in the center of Monastyrshchina, at the foot of the monument to A. I. Koldunov. It commemorates the contributions of local residents—soldiers and workers—to their homeland. Its connection to the people of the town distinguishes it from the memorials that commemorate military events and those who took part in them.

On September 25, 1983, a memorial to the Red Army soldiers who liberated Monastyrshchinsky District in September 1943 was erected at the entrance to town, on the old Smolensk road. Another memorial was unveiled in 1978. It honors the residents’ patriotic service, as well as the courage and bravery of Soviet tank crews during the war. A T-34 stands on a pedestal at the southeastern edge of town, at a site of fierce fighting during the liberation.

The local history museum combines excursions and exhibitions with lectures and museum classes. Its offerings therefore go beyond viewing exhibits and also include guided educational activities. If you would like to plan a specific activity during your trip, check dates and participation requirements in advance.

Smolensk Oblast also has its own archaeological and historical attractions. The Gnyozdovo archaeological complex preserves around 2,500 burial mounds and a settlement. It is the largest archaeological monument complex in Russia and Europe dating from the formation of the Old Russian state, and is protected as a monument of state and federal significance.

Another cultural attraction is the Khmelita estate in Vyazemsky District. It has been owned by the Griboyedov family since 1680 and is the centerpiece of the museum reserve. For a landscape attraction, visit Smolenskoye Poozerye National Park: established on April 15, 1992, in Demidovsky and Dukhovshchinsky districts to protect unique natural complexes, it also supports recreation, education, science, and culture.

The “K istokam” ecological trail is a circular route that starts in the village of Stary Dvor. A track for mobile apps such as Geotreker or MAPS.ME helps you follow it independently. Two viewpoints at Lakes Svyatets and Sapsho were set up in 2023–2024. Another scenic view can be enjoyed from a viewpoint on Sapsho Lake’s high southern shore, overlooking the lake and several islands.

Smolensk Oblast also offers other kinds of nature experiences. The barefoot trail in Boroviki consists of 14 sections, each six meters long, with different natural surfaces. At the end, you can wash your feet and, if you wish, take a walk through the Aptekarsky Garden. The “Poozerye bez bar'erov” ecological trail was created in 2017 for people with disabilities and starts near the “Baklanovo” Ecocenter building.

Guided tours of the “Stargrad” ethnographic village introduce visitors to the way of life of the ancient Slavs and showcase everyday objects, weapons, and clothing. Visits are only possible as part of a guided group. The extended program includes workshops in traditional women’s crafts, where you can make souvenirs, as well as activities in coin minting and chain-mail making. In a medieval-themed area, participants can shoot with a bow and sling and throw axes and sulitsa spears. The extended program also includes an on-the-water activity in the Viking oak boat “Fornkor,” where participants can sail and row on one of the national park’s deepest lakes. If you plan to visit as a group, arrange the extended program in advance.

Discover more destinations: Yasennaya, Novye Bateki, Sloboda, Demidov, Gerchiki, Sloykovo, Luzhki, Lipuny.

What does Heroes’ Alley commemorate?

Heroes’ Alley, opened in 2007, commemorates the contributions of Monastyrshchina residents—soldiers and workers—to their homeland.

What activities does the local history museum offer?

The program includes excursions, exhibitions, lectures, and museum classes. It is best to check dates and participation requirements in advance.

Can you visit “Stargrad” independently?

No. Visits are only possible as part of a guided group. The extended guided tour program should be arranged in advance.

See the broader travel overview: Smolensk Oblast.