Museum of Ukrainian Decorative Folk Art, Kiev

The National Museum of Ukrainian Folk Decorative Art preserves and presents the rich traditions of Ukrainian crafts. While its origins trace back to the late 19th century, the museum became an independent institution in 1964 and was granted national status in 2010.

Its collections include textiles, ceramics, woodwork, metalwork, folk paintings, and other traditional crafts from regions across Ukraine, highlighting both everyday objects and ceremonial pieces.

The museum is located within the grounds of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a historic monastery complex. Visitors enter the Lavra to access the museum, which is set among landscaped gardens and historic buildings.

Exhibits are arranged to showcase the regional variety of Ukrainian decorative arts, with information on the techniques and cultural significance behind each object, from embroidered clothing to intricately painted Easter eggs (also known as pysanky).

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations. Visitors can observe artisans at work and learn about traditional methods, making the experience interactive and offering insight into how these cultural practices have been preserved through generations.