The KGB Cells Museum, known as the "Grey House", is a historical museum in Tartu, where the NKVD/KGB was located in the 1940s and 1950s. The basement of the building, where the cells were located, is open to visitors. Several cells, the punishment cells, and the basement corridor have been restored to their historical form. The prison cells are filled with an exhibition that provides an overview of Estonia's post-war struggle for freedom and the crimes of the communist regime. Here you can see photographs and objects from Siberian prison camps, as well as materials on the history of the Forest Brotherhood and secret resistance organizations. Step into history and experience the meaning of freedom!
Tartu Art House is the home of the Tartu Artists’ Union and the heart of the city's art scene. It's not just a gallery room; it's a vibrant meeting place where creativity, diverse perspectives, and the spirit of an era meet. Art House is an important cultural node that brings together Estonian and international artists – known top performers, bold new talents, and, of course, all art lovers – on a regular basis. In three distinctive galleries, exhibitions alternate frequently, offering viewers something new and inspiring at every visit. Various forms of contemporary art are represented. Curators' offices, discussions, and meetings with artists help to gain a deeper understanding of the work on display and bring art closer to visitors for a more personal experience. All exhibitions and excursions are free for visitors. It is also possible to participate in practical workshops. Tartu Art House is waiting for you to discover Estonian art; a visit can show you a new perspective.
You are invited to Obinitsa Museum to dress up! The Seto culture workshop "Putting on Seto clothes" is about putting on Seto women's clothes. One member of the company or group will put on the garments. While dressing, the guide will tell you how a Seto woman and man should dress according to tradition, including how to distinguish a married woman from an unmarried girl. The historical context and significance of the objects in Seto culture will also be presented. Come and learn about Seto folk costumes and history!
A wonderful morning or day tour to explore the Onion Route and Peipsi region! The tour starts from Tartu and takes you to the shores of Lake Peipsi, where you will find Alatskivi Castle and the Old Believers Museum, and encounter the charming and authentic local community. The culinary experiences will lead straight to the heart of Peipsimaa. We'll try our hand at fun workshops, enjoy delicious onion pies, tea ceremonies, and craft wine, and dive into the legends of onion braids. The bravest can also take part in an exciting ghost tour. Transportation from Tartu and back is included in the tour price. Babelhouse tours are flexible and tailored according to the group's wishes and time constraints. During the tour, you can purchase local Peipsi onions, crafts, wine, and other souvenirs. The Onion Route tour is perfect for culture enthusiasts, foreign visitors, pre- and post-conference programs, and groups of friends who want to experience the authentic culture of the Old Believers together. Book your trip and enjoy an unforgettable day by Lake Peipsi!
At the Obinitsa museum, one can explore the unique culture and history of Setomaa, participate in various workshops and events. Most of the museum collection items are sourced from surrounding villages. Special value is placed on the fine handicrafts of Seto women. The museum is located in the heart of Setomaa and offers an overview of the area's life, traditions, and folk costumes. The permanent exhibition displays authentic farm tools, clothing sets, and photos that reveal different aspects of Seto culture. The museum's most popular program is called "Rõivile!". Dressing up means putting Seto clothes on a woman and doing her hair. During the dressing process, the historical context of the items is introduced. It is possible to order a handicraft workshop at the museum, where traditional Seto belts and ribbons are made. Seasonally, other activities are offered, such as embroidery and wool work introductions and guided village tours.
During the Tartu Nature House's natural cosmetics workshop, you can create hand and body creams, body scrubs, and lip balms with your preferred scent and composition. We mainly use organic and natural ingredients – unrefined oils, waxes, and other skin-friendly materials. In the workshop, we share practical advice on where to find high-quality natural cosmetics ingredients and what to look out for when selecting them. We also discuss the effects of cosmetic products on our skin, health, and the environment, and touch on waste.The workshop is organized on the principle that the tools and ingredients used are mostly already available at home or can be easily obtained. All participants receive a recipe sheet to make their favorite products at home. Workshops are held at the Tartu Nature House, but by agreement, we can also come to your event. Come and discover the joy of DIY and create your own natural cosmetics!
Värska Farm Museum is a unique place in Setomaa, offering comprehensive insight into the life of a wealthy Seto fortified farm in the 1920s. It is a great place to experience Seto culture, architecture, and traditions. The building complex includes a smoke sauna, a residential building, a clothing, dining and granary barn, an animal barn, a hay barn, a men's workshop, a threshing floor, a blacksmith's shop, and a pottery factory — you can get an overview of the entire Seto architecture. The museum also houses genuine Estonian farm animals. Various workshops are offered upon reservation, such as making sõir, bread making, and crocheting Seto lace, among others. The largest handicraft shop in Setomaa is open under the threshing floor! Come visit us!
How many bees are needed to make one kilo of honey? Does honey always taste the same? How do bees communicate with each other, and how fast do bees fly? How many flowers does a bee visit during a foraging flight? Your questions will be answered at the unique Mesi Tare honey workshop on the Onion Route. We will taste honey and learn how to distinguish between fake honey and real honey! We will discuss how each of us can help protect bees and what threats they face. We will also drink a nice cup of tea, as is the custom of the Old Believers, and explore the impressive samovar collection at the Samovar House. Come and have a treat with your friends and family!