Opinions & Interviews

Archaeological complex on Menka River near Minsk described as unique for Eastern Europe

MINSK DISTRICT, 11 October (BelTA) - The archaeological complex on the Menka River is unique for Eastern Europe. We need to set up a museum here, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko told the media after visiting the archaeological complex on the Menka River, BelTA has learned.

Belarusian scientists have been conducting excavations at the site of ancient Minsk for several years and made serious scientific discoveries. "I am glad that the excavations on the Menka confirmed the initial idea that this archaeological complex is unique for the Eastern European region. There was indeed a high-status settlement here, a city of the 11th century with authorities, troops, trade, comparable to all known large urban centers of that time. Therefore, this complex must be turned into a museum and become one of places of attraction for tourists, including foreign guests. Instructions have been given in this regard," Roman Golovchenko said.

He noted that the scientific part of the work has yet to be completed, but the issues of creating a museum should be dealt with simultaneously. "We decided to do several jobs at once to save time. Already now, specialists will begin to prepare architectural and artistic solutions, work on how to make this place more attractive and not spoil its flavor. This is painstaking, very delicate creative work. We will look for funding for this purpose, but first we need to decide how we see this place," the prime minister stressed.

So far, deadlines have not been determined. "But in my understanding, we need to move fast. This project should be wrapped up by the time the construction of the new building of the National Historical Museum, our megaproject, is completed. This is how I see it," the head of government said.

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