Preserving traditions: unique toys and souvenirs at the Department Store of the National Centre RUSSIA
The
National Centre RUSSIA places special emphasis on preserving the culture and
traditions of our country. At the Department Store, visitors can find both
classic works of traditional arts and crafts and more modern creations inspired
by the traditional art of various peoples of Russia.
Toys for
children should not only be engaging and colorful but also safe and
eco-friendly. That is why many parents are returning to the roots, choosing
wooden toys over plastic dolls and cars. For example, the Northern Toymaker
workshop offers charming animals and cars, which are available at the
Department Store. The craftsmen from Vologda create their works using beech,
walnut, ash, and oak, and all items are coated with natural oil produced
locally. Wooden toys are beneficial for fine motor skills, and the authors’
attention to detail and design allows for the creation of toys that truly
captivate children and foster imagination and creative abilities.
Also
available at the Department Store are the legendary Bogorodskoye toys, renowned
worldwide. This craft has existed for over 500 years, and even today, these
toys remain relevant thanks to the talented artisans of the Moscow region.
Fairy tale characters, forest and domestic animals, noblewomen, peasants, and
warriors — every child can find their favorite hero among the variety of
Bogorodskoye toys. Bogorodskoye toys hold a special value, as traditional
crafts allow us to learn more about the traditions, history, and culture of our
people.
Another
remarkable traditional toy featured in the Department Store is the clay
whistle, crafted using an ancient technique by artisans from the village of
Kozhlya in the Kursk region. The whistles are shaped from a single piece of
clay in the form of animals or humans. The Kozhlya clay whistle is not only a
delight for children but also makes a wonderful gift for adults interested in
folk crafts, who cherish history and value their native culture. It’s no
surprise that such toys can be found among the exhibits of many renowned
museums in our country.
The Moscow
souvenir brand Matwood, dedicated to family values, also inherits many
traditions of past artisans. For production, valuable wood species are
selected, such as oak, maple, and ash, while animals become the heroes of their
compositions. Foxes, bears, and rabbits crafted by Matwood artisans appear
incredibly touching, embodying everything our families are known for: love, support,
mutual understanding, and care for one another. The collection includes
talisman compositions for large families of four or more members, as well as
for young couples just beginning their life journey together.
The
Department Store space at the National Centre RUSSIA is a territory of unique
items and traditional crafts from all over the country. Here, you will find
handcrafted jewelry and souvenirs, confectionery, home textiles, tableware, and
much more. The National Centre RUSSIA welcomes visitors every day except
Monday, from 10:00 to 20:00.
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On 7 and 8 October 2025, the National Centre RUSSIA will host unique culinary masterclasses as part of the programme of the "Inventing the Future" Symposium.
The event brought together 1,000 homeroom teachers and curators of secondary vocational education groups from 89 regions of the country and the city of Baikonur at the National Centre RUSSIA in Moscow.
