The 1990 postcard depicts a significant part of Minsk: the Svislach River embankment featuring the “House under the Spire” and elements of the park ensemble.
What is shown on the postcard
In the foreground of the postcard, the Svislach River is visible, with recreational boats carrying passengers. Near the bank, there is a small rotunda with a dome supported by columns. Behind it, a wide, multi-tiered staircase ascends a grassy hill. Above the trees stands a monumental building in the Stalinist Empire style, characterized by a tall spire topped with a five-pointed star and a laurel wreath. In the background, roofs of other buildings and television antennas are also visible.
Historical note
The “House under the Spire” (located at Karl Marx Street, 38) depicted on the postcard was constructed between 1952 and 1954, designed by architect Georgy Zaborsky. It stands as a prominent example of post-war Soviet architecture and remains one of Minsk’s recognizable landmarks. The Svislach River embankment, alongside which the building is situated, underwent extensive landscaping during the post-war years, becoming part of the vast water-green diameter of the BSSR capital, offering residents places for relaxation and strolls.
Present day
Today, the “House under the Spire” retains its historical appearance and serves as a residential building. The Svislach embankment continues to be one of Minsk’s primary recreational areas. Boat and pedal boat rentals are still available here, and the adjacent park areas, including the Central Children’s Park named after Maxim Gorky, remain popular leisure spots for both residents and visitors.
Location (map)
Address: Karl Marx Street, 38, Minsk, Belarus
Coordinates: 53.896911, 27.561332
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the House under the Spire (Karl Marx Street, 38), which is the central architectural object on the postcard..
Questions and answers
- What is depicted on the postcard? The postcard depicts the Svislach River embankment in Minsk, featuring the “House under the Spire” and a rotunda in Gorky Park.
- When was the “House under the Spire” built? The “House under the Spire” was built between 1952 and 1954.
- Who was the architect of the “House under the Spire”? The architect of the “House under the Spire” was Georgy Zaborsky.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Minsk from 1990.
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