Braslav District Association of Museums

In the land of Belarusian lakes, it is easy to feel that very unity with nature: it is worth visiting Braslav lands at least once - you will want to come back here again. Communication with the northern nature of Belarus is inspiring and impressive, but to feel this place and its history more deeply, it is enough to visit Braslav District Association of Museums, which includes the Museum of Local History and the Museum of Traditional Culture.

Braslav Museum Association has existed since 1996, and its first exhibition opened in the local history museum in 1988. The six exhibitions reflect various historical periods: the Neolithic and Iron Ages, the period of Polotsk Principality and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and also present a rich collection of archaeological finds. Some of the exhibits are inherently unique.

The museum reflects the late Middle Ages, and contains interesting facts about Druya, the noble families of Braslav region and castle buildings.

The exhibition traces the history of Braslav lands during the uprisings of 1794 and 1863, the war of 1812, the First World War, as well as the economy and culture of the early 20th century.

Many visitors will come across familiar names of famous historical figures of the region: Stanislav Narbut (1853-1926), who worked as a doctor for over 40 years; artist Petr Sergievich (1900-1984), a native of Braslav region.

The period of the Great Patriotic War is also reflected in one of the exhibition halls.

The ethnographic exhibition immerses in the real atmosphere of a peasant house of the 19th - early 20th centuries. Among the exhibits are many items and products of weaving, wickerwork and wood carving.

The Museum of Traditional Culture is located in a former mill building – an architectural monument of the early 20th century. The building is adjoined by additional outbuildings, one of which houses hotel “Zaezny Dvor”.

The museum has two halls divided into three levels, which immerse visitors in the folk traditions of Braslav district. Ancient products made of straw, wicker and clay are on display here. The second level contains works by local wood carving masters. The exhibition ends with a real weaving workshop, where machines for processing flax and wool are exhibited, as well as works by local weavers. Of particular interest is the pottery workshop with examples of ceramics typical of northern Belarus.

In addition to permanent exhibitions, the museum also offers unusual services. For example, a special wedding interactive event, "Wedding in Mill", is arranged in the former building of the mill. Newlyweds and all guests are invited to participate in humorous competitions related to the life and household of Belarusian people, and learn about the main symbolism of the attributes of  "Belarusian Wedding".