Church of Saints Simon and Helena

When you visit Independence Square in Minsk, Belarus, you will see the striking Red Church, officially known as the Church of Saints Simon and Helena. Designed by Polish architects Tomasz Pajzderski and Władysław Marconi in the neo-Romanesque style, this Roman Catholic site was constructed between 1905 and 1910. Prominent landowner Edward Woyniłłowicz financed its build in memory of his late children, Szymon and Helena, sourcing red bricks from Częstochowa and roof tiles from Włocławek.

As you explore its history, you will learn how the building survived decades of turmoil. Sacked by the Red Army in 1921, Soviet authorities later converted it into a theatre and cinema. Though briefly reopened during World War II, it returned to cinema use until Catholic activists reclaimed it through hunger strikes in 1990.

After a full interior restoration, it became a vibrant centre for religious, cultural, and social life, housing the interments of Woyniłłowicz, his wife, and scholar Guy Picarda. Be aware, however, that following a small fire in September 2022, local authorities banned the parish from using the church and have rejected all attempts to reopen it for worship.

What to see at Church of Saints Simon and Helena

• Neo-Romanesque design built with Polish bricks and tiles
• Commissioned by Edward Woyniłłowicz in memory of his two children
• Prominent location on Independence Square in Minsk
• Resting place of Edward Woyniłłowicz, his wife, and Guy Picarda

Visiting tips

Because authorities banned parish use and rejected attempts to reopen the building after a 2022 fire, plan your visit around viewing its exterior from Independence Square.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Church of Saints Simon and Helena is easy to reach on Minsk’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Minsk travel guide.