Thursday, 13 February 2025

Discover the Konavle County Museum in Čilipi

Written by  Sep 02, 2024

In the heart of Čilipi, the Konavle County Museum showcases the region's rich cultural heritage. Established in 1974, it features traditional clothing, embroidery, and local artifacts. Despite wartime damage, the museum continues to celebrate and preserve Konavle's unique traditions, offering a fascinating glimpse into its history.

Nestled in the heart of Čilipi, the Konavle County Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the rich cultural traditions of the Konavle region. Originally established in 1974 by the Čilipi Tourism Association, the museum was created to enhance the experience of Sunday folklore performances by showcasing the region's heritage. Housed in a building constructed in 1909, originally serving as a rural savings society and cultural club, the museum became a vital part of the community. Before the Homeland War of 1991, it was a charming representation of a typical Konavle home, featuring exhibits of traditional men's and women's clothing, as well as the region's renowned embroidery. The museum's collection was lovingly curated with contributions from local residents, guided by the expertise of Katica Benc Bošković.

Discover the Konavle County Museum in Čilipi 1

Exceptional historical value

Tragically, the building was burned down during the war, and many of the museum's treasures were lost. However, thanks to the careful evacuation and storage of some items in the museum's cistern, a significant portion of the collection survived. Since 1998, the museum has been part of the Konavle Museums and Galleries, continuing its mission to preserve and celebrate the region's cultural heritage. Today, visitors can explore an array of exhibits that include traditional Konavle clothing from different periods, intricate embroidery, jewellery, musical instruments, artistic paintings, photographs, and various everyday items from the past. In addition to its ethnographic collection, the museum also houses a remarkable assortment of embroidery artefacts from the Cavtat Embroidery Association, which was active until World War II under the leadership of Jelka Miš. This collection, featuring specimens from Konavle and neighbouring regions, holds exceptional historical value.

Discover the Konavle County Museum in Čilipi 2

Vibrant centre

The Konavle County Museum goes beyond being just a place of preservation; it is a vibrant centre for cultural education. Through exhibitions, publications, talks, educational programs, and multimedia content, the museum fosters a deeper understanding of the local cultural heritage. By involving local residents in its activities, the museum ensures that the rich traditions of Konavle are kept alive and passed on to future generations. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about local traditions, a visit to the Konavle County Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the soul of this beautiful region.

The Voice of Dubrovnik

THE VOICE OF DUBROVNIK


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