White Kovel Castle - the ruins of the Sangushek family
Smolyan - this is perhaps one of the most interesting places in the Vitebsk region. There are enough attractions that will not leave you indifferent, but perhaps the main historical site is ruins of the castle “White Kovel”.
At the turn of the 17th century, approximately in 1626, the construction of the residence of the Volyn princes was completed, - White Kovel in Smolyan. In those days, this castle was on the border Principality of Lithuania и of Russia, one of its main functions was defense, because there were often disputes between the two neighboring states. However, this is still not a security fortress, but a princely castle, the construction of which was led by an architect from the Netherlands.
The castle was located on the way from Moscow to Europe, and its friendly owners willingly invited and provided a warm welcome to many guests. When the Northern War began, the castle was owned Paul Karol Sangushko. In the Northern War, he sided with the Swedes, the garrison in his castle was also Swedish. Russian troops, however, managed to capture the castle, but did not hold it. In this regard, an order was received from Peter I to destroy the castle.
From the huge and impressive castle to our time, only the central tower with five tiers has survived. Approaching it is not so easy, joke or not, but the old moat still performs its protective function. It is not known exactly how castle in Smolyany looked initially, there are only assumptions and theories.
The castle territory is rectangular, occupied a plot of about 100x200 meters, and was surrounded by water from all sides. Watch towers played an important role, such towers were located on every corner of the walls. Watch towers performed not only a security role, they also contained living quarters.
Apparently the castle was built in the Renaissance style, most of the rooms were three-story. The walls were decorated with elements of the Dutch ornament; outwardly, the White Kovel castle also resembled Dutch castles of that time.
Why is the Smolyan castle called “White Kovel”?
This name was given to the castle by the princes of Sangushki, who previously had an estate in “Kovyle” Kovel, but later exchanged it. “White” - does not raise questions, this refers to the original color of the castle. Probably the princes missed their former estate, hence the name is likely - White Kovel Castle.
Worth seeing in Smolyany Ruins of the Church of the Virgin Mary и abandoned church of St. Alexis. Excursions in Vitebsk and more sights of Belarus on the map.
