International Museum Day is celebrated worldwide on 18 May. This date is marked by a special Europe-wide event — “Night of Museums”.
The “Night” is held on the Saturday closest to 18 May. In addition to their permanent displays and exhibitions, museums endeavour to prepare a special programme for the occasion. This is not simply an opportunity to view their collections, but also an original theatrical, entertainment and cultural event. Belarus has also participated in this international cultural event since 2005.
On 19 May 2018, the Stalin Line Historical and Cultural Complex The Stalin Line traditionally hosted its “Night of Museums” with the support of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Belarus. The open-air museum offered visitors a programme unlike anything usually found at a conventional museum.
Guided tour and entertainment areas were open to visitors throughout the day and into the night. The highlight was a night-time reenactment of a battle from the Soviet–Afghan War, featuring the “Shuravi” military-historical reenactment group “Shuravi” of the military history club Soldiers of Victory.
As part of the international event, residents and visitors to the Republic of Belarus were offered admission to the complex at a special discounted price.
Guided routes around the complex, a display of military vehicles, a photo zone, horse riding, a simulated shooting activity, a small-arms search quest, tank painting, a competitive Ready for Labour and Defence (GTO) area, an entertainment show by the clown Asyas, performances by artists and many other activities left visitors no chance to become bored. The most active competitors received prizes and gifts. The main prize was a tank ride.
After sunset, a night-time military-historical reenactment of a battle from the Soviet–Afghan War was held: “Operation to Rescue Soviet Specialists Abducted in Mazar-i-Sharif” (events of 1983).
Night-time reenactments are particularly spectacular, but are held infrequently because they require enhanced safety measures. On 19 May, spectators were fortunate enough to see night combat scenes involving small arms and military vehicles.
The “Night of Museums” concluded with a minute of remembrance for those who died in the Soviet–Afghan War, followed by a celebratory fireworks display.
Photo: Vitaly Dorosh
Based on material from travel.otzyv.by
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