a town of European Russia, in the govern- ment of Vitebsk, on both sides of the Polota, at its con- fluence with the Dina, 60 miles W.N.W. of Vitebsk. It is surrounded by fortifications, and has a ruined castle and numerous churches and convents. The most remark- able building is the college and beautiful church that for- merly belonged to the Jesuits, but now to the Piarists. An active trade is carried on in flour, hemp, and other pro- duce of the country; and annual markets are held, which are much frequented. Polotzk is a very ancient town; it existed as early as the time of Rurik, the founder of the Russian power. Battles were fought here in July and Octo- ber 1812 between the French and the Russians. On the former occasion the French were successful, and took pos- session of the town; but on the 26th of October it was stormed and retaken by the Russians. Pop.(1851)11,131.