The Slovincian Village Museum is a unique, exceptional, and authentic place. Discover the culture of the Slovincians, see traditional half-timbered cottages built here in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, and embark on an extraordinary journey into the past.
The Słowiński Village Museum in Kluki presents the daily life of former village inhabitants from the late 19th to mid-20th century. This open-air museum features traditional interiors of cottages and farm buildings, faithfully recreating the everyday atmosphere of a historic fishing community. Visitors can not only explore the history of the Słowiński village but also take part in educational workshops and folk events – from shaping pottery and baking bread to weaving fishing nets.
The History of the Słowińcy in the Słupsk Region
Kluki is a picturesque village located on the western shore of Lake Łebsko, in the heart of Słowiński National Park. Originally called Otok, Kluki was first mentioned in written records in the 17th century. At that time, the village consisted of only eight farms – six of which were owned by the Kluk family. Over time, their surname gradually replaced the original village name, reflecting the family's importance in the local community.
The Słowińcy were a Slavic ethnic group who settled in the Kluki area. Over the years, they underwent a gradual process of Germanization, adopting the German language in everyday use. However, they continued to preserve their sense of identity and unique cultural heritage for many years. Unfortunately, World War II and postwar demographic changes led to the disappearance of the Słowińcy as a distinct group.
Today, only a few people with Słowińcy roots remain in the region, but their legacy is carefully preserved at the Słowiński Village Museum, which serves as a living tribute to their culture. This open-air museum is a vibrant center of regional tradition, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the past.
What Can You See at the Słowiński Village Museum?
The museum was established on the grounds of the historic center of Kluki, where original buildings have been preserved and complemented with relocated structures from nearby villages. The museum features around 20 objects, including residential cottages and timber-framed farm buildings. Their interiors are filled with authentic Słowińcy artifacts, allowing guests to step back in time and experience the traditional lifestyle and architecture of this unique community.
The museum began with a permanent exhibition in 1963, showcasing the culture of communities living near Lakes Łebsko and Gardno. In the 1970s, plans were made to expand the museum into a full-scale open-air ethnographic park. This included securing land and expanding the museum homestead – leading to the creation of this unique cultural destination.
Today, the museum spans 10 hectares, and its layout faithfully reflects the historical structure of the village. Visitors can explore seven farmsteads, along with farm buildings, wells, bread ovens, and root cellars – all integrated into the functioning village landscape.
The museum regularly hosts ethnographic events, where history comes alive. Visitors can admire and actively participate in traditional village life by trying their hand at pottery, bread baking, or net making. One of the most popular events is the annual Black Wedding – a festival celebrating the tradition of peat cutting, which once played a vital role in the local economy.
Opening Hours of the Słowiński Village Museum in Kluki
Museum opening times vary depending on the season:
February–April
May
June–August
September–October
November
December 1 to January 31 – Museum is closed.
Last entry one hour before closing.
Ticket Prices (2024)
Participation in workshops and museum lessons is subject to an additional fee.
Please check the museum’s website for up-to-date pricing.
Distance from Saltic Resort & SPA to the Słowiński Village Museum in Kluki – approx. 26 km on foot or by bike, or 60 km by car.
Photo credit: Paweł Szubert, Wikimedia Commons
