Country Belarus Region Vitebsk Region | Population 98,138 (2009) Area 48.49 km2 Founded 1958 | |
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University Polatsk State University | ||
Map of Navapolatsk
Novopolotsk (Belarusian: Наваполацк, Navapołack (Łacinka); Russian: Новополоцк, Novopolotsk, lit. New Polotsk, Polish: Nowopołock) is a city in Vitsebsk Province, Belarus, with a population (2008 estimate) of 107,458. Founded in 1958, it is located close to the city of Polotsk and the name literally means "New Polotsk".
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History
The history of Novopolotsk dates back to the year of 1958, when a large number of enthusiasts, workers and builders, seeking new experiences and romantic feelings came here to establish a new town. There was reason for that: a big oil refinery plant was to be set up. When new factories were being built, they were placed far enough away from Polatsk so that the radiation and dangerous gases would not reach the city. However, it was later decided that it would be acceptable to build a few buildings closer to the factories for the workers to live in. With them came a hospital, a fire station, and a school. A few more buildings were built and the city of Novopolotsk was born. The population grew over the years, even though it was located dangerously close to several factories - an ecological problem - including the well-known Polymir.
The city now has 12 secondary schools and 2 gymnasiums, many kindergartens and the Polotsk State University.
Industry
Out of all the cities in the Vitebsk Oblast, Novopolotsk is the leading producer in the refining and chemical industry business. The entire city of Novopolotsk and Polotsk live and survive because of this industry.
OAO "Naftan"
Naftan is the leading oil refinery. It was constructed in 1959. This refinery takes crude oil from the Volga Region of Russia and generates diesel, gasoline, and kerosine, along with other technological products. In addition to Naftan, Belarus built a large chemical plant, called "Polymir". This plant produces plastic and polyethylene. There are multiple products that could be produced from polyethylene, for example artificial fur.
Tourism
Novopolotsk is not very big in the tourism business. However, there are six hotels in the city available for tourists.
Sport
Novopolotsk has produced several players for Belarus national bandy team.
Culture
There are several culture centres, music schools – of which the Novopolotsk State Musical College –, art schools, and libraries in the city. There is also a museum of history and culture of Novopolotsk. The city of Novopolotsk has an a cappella music group, which won an international award.
Twin towns – Sister cities
Novopolotsk is twinned with: