500 Years of Belarusian Book Printing

There are plans to hold celebrations in Poland, Czech Republic, Serbia, and other countries. “Skaryna is an iconic name in culture, which helps us to communicate with the whole world,” Alexander Karlyukevich said.

Some of the events have already taken place abroad, including the presentation of the Belarusian bookprinting industry at the 18th International Vilnius Book Fair. In Vilnius, the Belarusian delegation visited Francysk Skaryna gymnasium and took part in a roundtable discussion Francysk Skaryna and the Origins of the Belarusian book printing. The roundtable was a part of the Belarusian national plan to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Belarusian book printing. The Belarusian guests also donated six sets of the newest Belarusian books to the gymnasium and the association of Belarusian public organizations of Lithuania.

The similar events will take place in different countries. Belgrade will host a research and practice conference. A number of events will take place in Moscow, including a presentation of a copy of the printing press that Francysk Skaryna used to print his first book. The press could be seen at work during the 24^th International Minsk Book Fair. The celebrations will also take place in the countries of Central Asia and China. At the moment, the format of the anniversary events is negotiated with the Polish side. The celebrations abroad will feature the representatives of the Belarusian diasporas.