Czech Folk Culture

Permanent ethnographical exhibition presents life of Czech rural communities in the 18th, 19th and the first half of the 20th century and describes traditional folk culture of historical Czech lands – Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia.

First section of the exhibition presents everyday life with emphasis on material culture. Showcases of this section are artifacts and tools of folk craftsmen, artisans and farmers (folk ceramics, folk dwellings) as well as unique items connected with rural festivals and folk art (folk costumes and textiles).

Second section of the exhibition presents folk customs, rituals and festivities of traditional calendar year – from spring (Shrovetide customs, Easter customs) through summer and autumn (Pentecostal customs, summer pilgrimages and fairs, the Thanksgiving) and finally to winter (Saint Nicholas Day, Advent masks, Christmas and New Year´s Eve traditions).

Third section of the exhibition presents life cycle in the folk culture (birth, christening, wedding, funeral) and rituals and customs connected to family life. Three folk artisan’s workshops (ceramics, textile, woodcarver) are also located in the exhibiton, supplemented by regular presentation of the folk crafts and trades.

Details about the Ethnographical exhibition can be found in the printed photographical guide (in Czech language with English summary), which can be bought at the cashdesk of the Ethnographical Museum.