Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum | Chernihiv

The Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum named after V. V. Tarnovsky is one of the oldest and most important museums in Ukraine, located in the city of Chernihiv. It plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Chernihiv region.

Historical Background

The museum was founded on November 14 (26), 1896, originally as the Chernihiv Governorate Learned Archival Commission with a historical museum.

In 1902, based on the collection of Vasyl Tarnovsky Jr., the Museum of Ukrainian Antiquities was established, which became the foundation of the modern museum.

In 1923, five separate museums in Chernihiv were merged into the Chernihiv State Museum.

The museum resumed operations after World War II and in 1997 was officially renamed the Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum named after Vasyl Tarnovsky.

The museum is housed in the former Governor’s Residence, a significant architectural monument built in the early 19th century, located on 4 Museum Street in Chernihiv.

Architecture

The building is a classic example of early 19th-century architecture with historical significance.

It served various roles, including as a classical male gymnasium in the 1920s and 1930s.

The structure is recognized as a national architectural monument, reflecting the heritage and history of the region.

Collections and Exhibitions

The museum holds over 230,000 artifacts, spanning many historical periods relevant to Chernihiv and Northern Ukraine.

The exhibition space includes 16 halls, arranged mostly in chronological order, presenting a comprehensive overview of the region’s past.

Key sections of the collection include:

Archaeology: Artifacts from the Paleolithic era, ancient jewelry, and weapons dating from the 10th to the 13th centuries.

Cossack Era: Collections of Cossack-era antiquities, including military gear, church items, and everyday utensils from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Rare Books and Manuscripts: About 300 old printed books, including two copies of the Ostromir Bible and over 50 gospel books with elaborate covers.

Famous Historical Figures: Exhibits related to important regional leaders and personalities such as Hetmans Bohdan Khmelnytsky, Ivan Mazepa, Pavlo Polubotok, and others.

Recent History and Damage

In March 2022, during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the museum building sustained significant damage from shelling.

While a portion of the collection was successfully evacuated to safety, some exhibits remaining on site were damaged or destroyed.

Despite this, the museum continues to serve as a symbol of cultural resilience and the ongoing effort to preserve Ukrainian heritage.

Visitor Information

Address: 4 Museum Street, Chernihiv, Ukraine.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The museum offers guided tours and educational programs, providing visitors with detailed insights into the history of the Chernihiv region.

Contact details and more information are available on the museum’s official website.

The Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum named after V. V. Tarnovsky remains a vital institution for historical research, cultural education, and public engagement. Its vast collections allow visitors to deeply explore the ancient and modern history of the region through well-preserved artifacts and curated exhibitions.