The Ethnological Museum consists of several well preserved buildings that are from the 18th and 19th century. It tells the story of life in Kosovo from the 15th century through to the 20th century.

Originally the home of the local nobleman Emin Gjiku, the home was turned into a biology museum when the family was expelled from Kosovo in the 1950's. The Ethnological Museum was opened in 2006.

The exhibition is built round four main themes that represent the circle of life: birth, life, death and intangible heritage. You can witness some folk art, the way of living, marriage, folk dressing, and death rituals and so on.

You will be able to see the urban oda (saloon), beautiful folk dresses, folk instruments, Kosovo's rich heritage of filigree jewelry influenced by Sephardic Jews and practiced in Prizren and Gjakova, carpet work, locally produced weapons of the time and even religious objects dating back to the Illyrian ancestors.

Throughout the museum there are computers displaying information about the room that you are visiting, and of course there friendly and knowledgeable guides who are more than happy to show you around and tell you everything about the old days.

The garden of the museum is a true oasis in the old city of Pristina. It offers a nice fresh atmosphere, and you can even have some traditional foods there too.

Location

The Museum of Ethnology is located on Ilaz Agushi Street. From the Museum of Kosovo head uphill, take first left and up, and then left again.

Museum is open Monday through Saturday 10:00-16:45.

Entrance is free, with a €2.50 suggested donation – and it is well worth it.

Call (038)211-394 to find out about special events such as resident artisans or music programs.

Tags: museum, ethnology