Bykhov Castle Chodkiewicz and Sapieha 17th century

Castle of the Chodkiewicz and Sapieha families located in Bykhov, Mogilev region. The history of construction begins at the turn of the late 16th - early 17th centuries, when these lands belonged to the hetman of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania Jan Karol Chodkiewicz. It was under him that a stone fortress was built from 1610 to 1619. The castle, surrounded on three sides by a deep moat, was located on the high bank of the Dnieper River. An interesting fact: at that time there were only two stone buildings in Bykhov - a fortress and synagogue.

However, already in 1621 Bykhov Castle, as well as all lands, pass to a new owner - Lev Sapieha. Thanks to him, not only the castle is strengthened, but the entire defensive system of the city as a whole.

The fortress was a rectangular area measuring 77*100 meters. Outbuildings and the palace part of the complex itself were located along the perimeter (it has survived to this day).

On the western side there was an entrance gate and defensive octagonal towers in 2 tiers.

In addition, in Bykhov there was a lyudvisarnya, which covered the needs for guns and cannonballs, not only for the fortress, but also for sale abroad. 

Bykhov Castle - wars and a period of devastation

Castle Chodkiewicz and Sapieha in Bykhov managed to survive many historical events that left their mark on the walls of the fortress. This is the long siege of the Ukrainian Cossacks in the war of 1654-57. Capture during the Northern War and of course the decline of the early 19th century. In 1830-31, Bykhov Castle was confiscated and lost its defensive purpose. For a short time, it served as a prison, after which barracks were located in the walls.

The 20th century also did not bring anything good for the fortress. Everything of value was stolen or destroyed. A woodworking factory worked in the surviving buildings for some time.

The last round of destruction occurred in August 2004, when a fire broke out in the palace part. After that, the castle in Bykhov finally began to resemble an abandoned building.

The situation changed a little in 2010-12, when the walls of the fortress were mothballed, and the territory was cleaned and ennobled. In addition, 2 towers were restored, lighting was added.

Bykhov Castle - very promising attraction of Belarus. After a quality renovation, this place could easily compete with Nesvizh and Mir castles. While in Bykhov look wooden Trinity Church late 19th century.