Carniamusei
Museum | Tolmezzo | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | Italy
The Museo Carnico delle Arti Popolari "Michele Gortani" in Tolmezzo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, is one of the most important ethnographic museums in the region, offering a deep insight into the traditions and everyday life of Carnia. The museum is located in the Palazzo Campeis, a historic 17th-century building that houses a variety of exhibition spaces on three floors.
Collections and Exhibitions
The exhibitions are thematically organized and reflect various aspects of traditional life in Carnia:
- Home culture: reconstructions of living spaces such as kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms, equipped with antique furniture, textiles, and household items that illustrate domestic life in past times.
- Craftsmanship: reproductions of workshops such as those of carpenters and blacksmiths, emphasizing the craftsmanship skills and the importance of crafts in the region.
- Agriculture and livestock farming: exhibitions on agricultural practices, animal husbandry, and the tools and equipment associated with survival in the mountain regions.
- Folk music and masks: collections of musical instruments and traditional masks documenting the rich folklore and cultural expressions of Carnia.
- Religious folk art: representations of religious practices, artifacts, and folk art showing the deep roots of faith in the daily lives of the people.
Educational Programs and Events
The museum offers various educational programs, including workshops and guided tours aimed at schools and the general public. These programs aim to deepen understanding of the art and history of the region and keep the heritage of Carnia alive.
Additional Facilities
The museum's courtyard, framed by the building walls, houses a loggia where large stone containers for animal fats and agricultural tools are displayed. The adjacent garden, once an orchard, is used for temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and concerts during the summer months, providing a pleasant place for a break.
Overall, the Museo Carnico delle Arti Popolari "Michele Gortani" makes a significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage of Carnia, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the history and traditions of this unique mountain region.