500 Years of Belarusian Book Printing

MINSK, 21 April (BelTA) – Francysk Skaryna’s creed made Belarusians known to the whole Europe, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said in the State of the Nation Address on 21 April, BelTA has learned.

“Five hundred years ago the Belarusian enlightener Francysk Skaryna published his first book. His legacy made Belarusians known to the whole Europe,” the head of state noted.

According to the president, the annual Belarusian Literature Day helps maintain and augment Belarus’ cultural heritage. In 2017 the celebration will take place in the ancient city of Polotsk. This time the event will be special and symbolic because it will celebrate the 500th anniversary of book printing in Belarus.