Ethnographic Institute and Museum

The Ethnographic Institute and Museum in Sofia presents an extensive collection of objects that document traditional life in Bulgaria across various time periods. The holdings include handmade clothing, tools, household equipment, and crafts from different parts of the country.

The museum was founded in 1892 to preserve and study Bulgaria's material culture and traditional ways of life. After moving in 1954 to a former royal palace building, it could permanently display its collections and expand its research work.

The museum displays craft techniques and everyday objects from different Bulgarian regions, showing how people traditionally lived and worked across the country. Visitors can observe how regional differences in handicrafts, jewelry, and household items reflect the land's diverse identity.

The museum is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation. It is advisable to check opening times before visiting, as visiting hours can vary depending on the season.

The institute conducts ongoing field research documenting traditional practices of different ethnic groups, going beyond simply displaying objects in cases. These research efforts and archives of oral histories show how living and continuing these traditions remain.