Historical blog

Sky Giants

Dirigibles, also known as airships, continue to capture the imagination of people to this day. Since the beginning of their history, they have drawn attention as marvelous and powerful machines capable of taking flight. Their impressive size, distinctive appearance, and ability to fly at high altitudes have always inspired awe.

The Gan Staircase

The Narva Museum continues to introduce us to the history of the most remarkable architectural landmarks of Narva. Today, we focus on the monumental and austere Gan Staircase, which can confidently be counted among the symbols of our city.

In 1944, a devastating air raid occurred.

During the night of March 6 to March 7, 1944, a devastating air raid by the Soviet military aviation took place, followed by artillery shelling from the Red Army on the morning of March 8.

The Art Gallery Building

Did you know that as of today, the Narva Museum owns eight hectares of land with historical objects on it, similar to a large landowner? And the Art Gallery building is definitely one of the most interesting.

It was built in 1777 on top of the Gloria Bastion and was intended to house a provision and artillery warehouse necessary for the garrison of Narva Fortress.

Flag of Narva 1935

In 1934-1936, a significant effort was made in Estonia to standardize the flags and coats of arms of all local self-governments. In 1934, a corresponding design for the flag was submitted to the Narva City Council, where it was promptly approved. At a meeting held on May 28, 1935, the Narva City Council also decided to adopt the presented city flag.

Beaded Purses

Each of us gives gifts to our loved ones. Some buy them in stores, while others prefer to make them by hand.
Two centuries ago, a popular and fashionable gift was a purse embroidered with beads.
Colorful glass beads have been used in handicrafts since ancient times, but the heyday of beadwork is considered to be the late 18th to early 19th centuries. The beads of that time were different from modern ones in size - they were significantly smaller.

Estonian Literature Day: Celebrating the Nation's Literary Heritage

Today, January 30th, Estonia celebrates Estonian Literature Day, emphasizing the country's historical respect for books and unprecedented current access to literary works. This day marks a celebration of Estonia's rich literary tradition and the diverse selection of literature available to its citizens, highlighting the progress from limited access in the past to the wide range of options available today.

The Alexander Church of Narva: A Monument of Faith and History

Next year marks the 140th anniversary of the consecration of Narva's Lutheran Alexander Church. While its age may not seem significant compared to other European sacred buildings, it stands as a crucial architectural and historical monument for Narva, especially considering the extensive destruction the city suffered during World War II.

Craft Guild Banners: Echoes of Narva's Artisan Heritage

If you think concepts like "branding," "corporate style," and "trademark symbolism" are exclusively modern inventions, there's a fascinating historical perspective to consider. These concepts have roots that go back further than you might expect, showing how businesses and guilds in the past understood the importance of distinguishing themselves and their work through unique symbols and styles.

"Shepherds at the Birth of Christ"

The Narva Museum holds a captivating 18th-century painting titled "Shepherds at the Birth of Christ," offering a glimpse into the artistic depiction of this biblical scene from that era.

The Transfiguration Cathedral

The architecture of Old Town Narva was so distinctive that pre-war Narva print shops produced New Year's greeting cards featuring the city's historic buildings. Among these was a card depicting Narva's oldest church, the Transfiguration Cathedral, highlighting the architectural and historical significance of the city's landmarks.

The Most Important Symbol of Winter Holidays

The Christmas tree, widely recognized today as a central symbol of the winter holidays, was not always so prevalent. Its widespread placement in homes dates back to the 19th century, initially appearing in affluent urban homes and estates before becoming common among the broader populace.