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Vitebsk Oblast developing religious tourism

08.11.2012
SHARKOVSHCHINA, 8 November (BelTA) – Vitebsk Oblast is developing religious tourism, BelTA learnt from Vitebsk Oblast Governor Alexander Kosinets who took part in the inauguration ceremony of the Sharkovshchina central regional hospital. In his words, attention of the authorities to the beautification of the towns and religious facilities has raised the interest among tourists. “A number of pilgrims has recently increased. They wish to see the Monastery of the Holy Dormition and the Covent of the Patronage of the Mother of God, the Cathedrals of Resurrection and Annunciation in the oblast center and go to Polotsk to visit the Covent of the Savior and St. Euphrosyne and other holy sites of this ancient city,” Alexander Kosinets. He added that Vitebsk had become more attractive with its improved trading potential, too. The recent construction of big trading centers such as Marko City and Euroopt testify to the fact. All in all, over the last three years more than 250 trading and catering facilities have been put into operation in the region. The Vitebsk Oblast Governor also praised a considerable growth in the exports of medical services in the region. “The highest exports of medical services have been registered in Vitebsk Oblast. In January-September exports grew 1.9 times as against the same period a year ago. The oblast healthcare establishments have already earned more than Br100 billion this year,” the governor stressed. In January-September, the amount of tourist services soared 2.5 times, that of construction services 3.1 times.

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