Majak

On the banks of the Sozh River sits one of the most photogenic modern art objects—the unusual "Mayak" (Lighthouse) composition. This original installation adorns the city of Gomel, transforming a familiar promenade into a space for contemporary art. The piece features a granite pedestal topped with 48 elegant supports, each crowned with a lamp.

Mayak. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This spot in Belarus attracts both locals and travelers with its aesthetics and symbolism. The structure is located right next to the famous Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace and Park Ensemble, harmoniously complementing its historical atmosphere with a modern touch. The lights create a unique glow that, from a distance, resembles a real harbor lighthouse.

The installation looks particularly striking after dark when all 48 lanterns light up, turning the embankment into an enchanting and slightly mystical space. Thanks to its high rating and recognizable look, "Mayak" has become a popular meeting point and a must-see on tourist routes through the city.

No prior booking or tickets are required to visit this attraction, as it is part of an open public space. You can find this landmark in the southern part of the city embankment, near the riverside promenade. For any inquiries regarding the park area, you can contact the administration of the nearby palace and park ensemble.

The main reason to visit "Mayak" is the evening atmosphere. As dusk falls over the city, the installation lights up with dozens of lanterns, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic walks and stunning photographs. Many tourists come here specifically for shots of the lights reflecting on the calm surface of the Sozh River.

During the day, it is a pleasant place to relax by the water, watching the river flow and seeing cruise boats pass by. Strolling along the embankment, you will encounter other interesting sculptures, such as the famous "The Boatman" with a lynx or the monument to Prince Paskevich with his faithful dogs. For outdoor enthusiasts, a skate park is located nearby.

You can easily turn your visit into a full cultural experience: climb the neighboring Observation Tower for a bird's-eye view of the city, or take a boat trip from the local pier. This spot is perfect for both large groups and those seeking solitude to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Finding the installation is easy, as it is located on the Sozh River embankment in the heart of the city on Frunze Street. If you are already walking around the Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace or visiting the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the walk to the "Mayak" will take no more than 5–10 minutes through the scenic park alleys.

For those coming from other districts, public transport is a great option: buses, trolleybuses, and shuttles will take you to the "Naberezhnaya" or "Rumyantsev Palace" stops. If you are coming from the railway station, a taxi or bus ride will take about 20–30 minutes.

Drivers can leave their cars in parking lots near the park or on the streets adjacent to the embankment. Thanks to its central location, the site fits perfectly into any walking route through the historical center.

While the "Mayak" composition is a modern art piece, it is inextricably linked to the rich history of the location. It became a key element of the large-scale renovation of the embankment, which has been the heart of life in Gomel for centuries. The park area itself began to take shape more than two hundred years ago around the famous palace ensemble.

In the 19th century, the owners of these lands, the Rumyantsevs and the Paskevichs, actively developed the area, creating a unique landscape. Where the walking paths are today, there used to be outbuildings, factories, and greenhouses. The appearance of objects like the "Mayak" symbolises the transformation of the territory from a private estate into a modern public space.

Interestingly, there are two similar structures on the embankment, which locals have already dubbed folk symbols of the city. They harmoniously complement the historical landscape, emphasizing the connection between eras and the city's desire to renew its image.

To see the installation itself and take a few good shots by the river, you will need about 30–60 minutes. This is enough time for a leisurely observation of the art object and a short rest on a bench by the water.

However, if you plan to combine your visit with a walk along the entire embankment, seeing nearby sculptures, or a river cruise, it is better to budget 1–2 hours. The evening is especially suitable for long walks when the lights come on and the atmosphere becomes truly magical.

The attraction is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can come here at any convenient time, whether it's early morning for a quiet walk or late evening to see the light illumination.

Since the object is outdoors, entrance is free. Nevertheless, before your trip, you can check the official website of the Gomel Palace and Park Ensemble to see if any city events or festivals are happening on the embankment.

A stroll along the embankment is just the beginning of your acquaintance with the city's cultural heritage. Many interesting locations are concentrated around "Mayak," allowing you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the region and its history.

Be sure to take the time to explore nearby monuments and museums to get a full impression of the local flavor. Below are some interesting sites located within walking distance.