The Flame of Peace was lit to mark the official start of the Minsk 2019 European Games ©ITG

"Photo_Gallery"

The Ceremony encouraged audience participation, using features such as augmented reality and light-up wristbands ©Minsk 2019
The Ceremony encouraged audience participation, using features such as augmented reality and light-up wristbands ©Minsk 2019
Performances during the Ceremony focused on Belarusian culture and history ©Minsk 2019
Performances during the Ceremony focused on Belarusian culture and history ©Minsk 2019
An Athletes' Parade also took place during the Opening Ceremony ©Getty Images
An Athletes' Parade also took place during the Opening Ceremony ©Getty Images
Hosts Belarus received the biggest cheer from the home crowd ©Getty Images
Hosts Belarus received the biggest cheer from the home crowd ©Getty Images
Seven Torchbearers lit the Flame of Peace together ©ITG
Seven Torchbearers lit the Flame of Peace together ©ITG
With the conclusion of the Ceremony, the Minsk 2019 European Games had officially begun ©Minsk 2019
With the conclusion of the Ceremony, the Minsk 2019 European Games had officially begun ©Minsk 2019
Competition in several sports, including 3x3 basketball, began today ©Minsk 2019
Competition in several sports, including 3x3 basketball, began today ©Minsk 2019
Archery also got under way at the Olympic Sports Complex ©Minsk 2019
Archery also got under way at the Olympic Sports Complex ©Minsk 2019
Boxing was the third and final sport to start today, with preliminary-round bouts contested ©Minsk 2019
Boxing was the third and final sport to start today, with preliminary-round bouts contested ©Minsk 2019