The open-air section of the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania in Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár) will be renovated, and spaces for leisure activities and folk crafts will be added, the Cluj county branch of the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania informed MTI.
The Romulus Vuia National Ethnographic Park, located in an easily accessible and more natural part of the Transylvanian city next to the Hoja Forest, is being renovated with EU funds and will also provide space for new leisure activities. The project will also include the restoration of the forest on the side of the ski jump and the hillsides around the forest, according to Hungary Today.
”Our aim is to further increase the attractiveness of the facility and expand the range of existing activities, as we have seen that the demand for recreational activities has increased in recent years,” the statement quoted István Vákár, vice-president of the county assembly of the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania party.
He recalled that ”the open-air museum also hosts events important for the Hungarian community, such as the Donathon running race and common cooking, organized as part of the Hungarian Days in Cluj-Napoca”.
The annual Student Days of the Hungarian Students’ Association of Cluj-Napoca are organized on the hillside facing the forest.
A restoration project is also being carried out this year in the open-air museum with the support of the Romanian Ministry of Culture. The project is worth around 409,000 euros and will restore 12 of the buildings on the site.
The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania, located in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, is one of the most significant cultural institutions dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich ethnographic heritage of the Transylvanian region. Established in 1922, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into the traditional customs, crafts, and lifestyles of the diverse ethnic groups that have inhabited Transylvania over the centuries.
Historical Background
The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania was founded by the renowned ethnographer Romulus Vuia, who envisioned a place where the cultural heritage of Transylvania could be preserved and celebrated. The museum’s collection has grown significantly over the years, thanks to the dedication of researchers and collectors who have contributed valuable artefacts and documentation.
Collections and Exhibits
The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 50,000 artefacts, including traditional costumes, household items, tools, and agricultural equipment. These exhibits provide a vivid portrayal of the daily lives and customs of various ethnic groups, such as Romanians, Hungarians and Germans.
The museum is divided into two main sections: the Pavilion Exhibition and the Open-Air Section.
Pavilion Exhibition
Housed in a historic building in the heart of Cluj-Napoca, the Pavilion Exhibition features thematic displays that explore different aspects of traditional Transylvanian life. Visitors can admire beautifully embroidered clothing, intricately crafted pottery, and finely carved wooden objects. The exhibits also highlight the region’s rich folklore, including traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
Open-Air Section
Located in the nearby Hoia Forest, the Open-Air Section offers an immersive experience of rural Transylvanian life. This outdoor museum features over 30 traditional houses, barns, and workshops, carefully reconstructed to reflect the architectural styles and living conditions of different periods and ethnic groups. Visitors can explore these buildings and gain a deeper understanding of traditional craftsmanship, farming practices, and domestic life.
Educational and Cultural Activities
The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania is committed to promoting the understanding and appreciation of traditional culture through various educational and cultural activities. The museum organises workshops, lectures, and interactive programmes that engage visitors of all ages. These activities provide hands-on experiences in traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and woodcarving, as well as opportunities to learn about Transylvanian folklore and customs.
Importance and Recognition
The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region. Its extensive collection and diverse activities have earned it recognition as a leading ethnographic institution in Romania and beyond. The museum continues to attract researchers, students, and tourists who seek to explore and understand the rich cultural tapestry of Transylvania.
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