Over the past five years, Brest customs officers have intercepted the illegal movement of approximately 2,300 items of historical and cultural value, including icons.
The recovered artifacts were handed over to 12 museums across Belarus. These items include paintings and other works of art, tableware, household goods, coins, and various objects dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries.
Photo: Brest Customs Archives
For example, in December 2025, Brest customs officers seized more than two dozen antique items. An attempt was made to illegally transport them from Poland through the Brest checkpoint, disguised as goods for personal use.
The seized collection includes a canvas by an unknown artist, a 19th-century bust of Jesus Christ, figurines, silverware, and approximately 500 coins minted more than 100 years ago. Following a thorough examination, specialists from the customs laboratory confirmed that the items qualify as cultural property.
These artifacts will now join the collections of museums in both Minsk and Brest.