The main attractions in town are in the Monastery compound, located to the north of Suprasl's town center. Founded in the early 16th century, the monks here had substantial influence in the religious life within and beyond Biaystok's borders. It hasn't always been smooth sailing for the monks, though: In 1915, as the German army closed in, the monks escaped to Russia, taking with them precious religious objects, including the Suprasl Icon of Mother of God. After World War II, the buildings were taken over by postwar authorities. Monastic life was finally reinstated in the 1980s. The monastery now conducts regular prayer services, summoning believers to worship with church bells that don't exactly chime but chant, in an upbeat manner. Listening to the "call to prayer" is an unforgettable experience.