Dukhovskoy Kruglyk in Vitebsk celebrated its 5th anniversary

The Dukhovskoy Kruglyk, which has already become a significant tourist attraction in the northern capital, celebrated its 5th anniversary.

Strictly speaking, this branch of the Vitebsk Culture Center should have celebrated its first small anniversary in the summer, as it opened in July 2007. However, as is well known, summer for the city on the Daugava is a busy time, not only due to the air temperature. During this period, the International Arts Festival takes place, the history of which is reflected in the exhibition at Dukhovskoy Kruglyk. This large-scale creative forum means hustle and bustle and many tourists, which, on the one hand, is good, but on the other hand, does not contribute to heart-to-heart conversations with old friends. However, in the atmosphere of the golden autumn, with tears and sadness giving way to winter, a warm conversation was very appropriate.

The evening "Memories of the Future. A Small Occasion for a Big Meeting" on October 25 brought together those involved in the creation and development of Dukhovskoy Kruglyk, media representatives, and simply residents of Vitebsk who were interested in learning the behind-the-scenes details of the exhibition hall's creation. It is thought that there were no disappointments, as many sincere words and engaging stories were heard at this celebration. They recalled how the first exhibition dedicated to the "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" was arranged in the building of the Literary Museum in just a few days. A series of photographs and posters were then placed at the entrance to the hall. Knowing that there was very little time for preparation, visitors who came to the opening ceremony decided that these were all the exhibits. And they were extremely surprised when they heard the General Director of the Vitebsk Culture Center, Rodion Bass, invite them to proceed to the exhibition.

The next stage of the exhibition's development was directly related to the Dukhovskoy Kruglik. There were plenty of difficulties; during its construction, the project had to be changed because the building initially had no heating or basic amenities. As a result, the construction workers left the facility, which was planned to be completed on June 1, only on the 30th. Due to the changes made, the premises differed from the planned ones, so it was impossible to implement the original ideas in them. The exhibition hall was included in the program for the visit of the President of the Republic of Belarus, and this visit was scheduled for July 6. It seemed like an impossible task. Initially, as admitted by artist-designer Alexander Vyshka, he considered it unfeasible. But then he sat down, thought for five minutes... and realized how to prepare all floors of the Dukhovskoy Kruglik for visitors in a record short time. This bold claim was met with a degree of skepticism. However, a cohesive team led by Olga Salnikova, First Deputy General Director of the Vitebsk Cultural Center, successfully brought the idea to life, starting work on June 22.

Over five years, the Dukhovskoy Kruglik has managed to secure a firm place in tourist routes. Its hall has hosted numerous interesting creative meetings attended by hundreds of residents and guests of the regional center who are interested in the past and concerned about the future of the northern capital. Concerts have also been held here, and this initiative may continue to develop. Furthermore, the building has gained fame as a peculiar Vitebsk curiosity. City guests often ask: "Why is it called Dukhovskoy Kruglik? The building is rectangular!" And one has to explain that the name characterizes the architectural feature of the Lower Castle tower, which was erected on this site in the 14th century. It was octagonal in plan and located opposite the Holy Spirit (Dukhovskaya) Church, built by Prince Algirdas.

The foundation of an ancient structure was discovered during archaeological excavations in 1984. Thus, the Duchovskiy Kruglyk has an old name but a stylized, modern appearance. Upon arriving here for an excursion, visitors also immerse themselves in events that span several centuries. This fully aligns with the spirit of Vitebsk itself, a city that is quite old, yet dynamic and young.

Lilia IVCHENKO.
Photos by Dmitry OSIPOV.