Interesting Facts about Belarus

Did You Know?

20 curious facts about Belarus.

• The literal translation of Belarus is “White Russia,” after the ancient term “Belaya Rus.” The “white” may refer to the beauty of the birch forests or to the snow that blankets the earth every year. Another explanation is that in ancient times the word “white” meant free, in the sense of free from conquering invaders.
• Belarus is the country's name in the Belarusian language. During the Soviet era, the area was known as Byelorussia, which is the same word, but in the Russian language.
• The Belovezhskaya Forest Nature Reserve is home to the European bison (or wisent), a relative of the American buffalo. This creature is often depicted in prehistoric wall paintings found all over Europe. It survives only in the reserve.
• The period from the 16th to the 18th century is considered the golden age of Belarusian culture.