Museum of Folk Applied Arts

About museum

In 1999 the Museum of Folk Applied Arts was opened; it is located in a wooden house of classical style with openwork carving, built in 1907. Until 1917 the house belonged to P. Lokhanov. Later it housed the cantonal executive committee of the Council of Peasants' and Soldiers' Deputies and a craft school. Today P. D. Lokhanov's house is recognized as a historical and architectural monument and an object of cultural heritage protected by the state. The museum presents Mari household items made from natural materials using various techniques of weaving, carving, cooperage, joinery and carpentry. Also on display are tools for spinning and weaving and women's costumes that convey the uniqueness, beauty and richness of Mari embroidery. The museum conducts themed tours and a variety of educational and cultural programs to introduce visitors to the vivid and multifaceted folk applied arts of the Mari people.