The introduction of Seto woman oblong veil and fabric weaving on looms
Launched on the occasion of the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in October 2025, the Värska Farm Museum will present an exhibition focusing on the oblong veil, which is most note-worthy, yet the most casual headset of married Seto woman. The exhibition will run until September 2026.
Visitors can explore a little exhibition of veils that are decorated with beautiful woven patterns, embroidery and lace at the ends. All the showpieces are from the Seto Museum handicraft collection. The handicraft pieces were made by skilful Seto women from last centuries until this day. Throughout the year the exhibition selection is being rotate as there are so many techniques and colour palettes used on decorating the veil ends. It shows the richness and proudness of Seto handicraft culture.
From October to the end of December visitors can try the real-life linen fabric weaving technique on the loom’s construction. The museum workers are there to instruct and chat with visitors about the techniques and overall 20th century farm life. Our museum mission is to preserve yet teach the skills and survival knowledge to whom they need the most or are interested in learning practical skills. From ancestors to descendants - as it has been the tradition of Setomaa for centuries.
Setos are an ethnic group that locate in South of Estonia. However, the historical Setomaa has been much larger in territory, coinciding mostly with the former Pechory Country. For at least the past millennium, the history of Setos has been remarkably different from Estonians.
Even though the religion, rulers and administrative division in Setomaa have changed in time, the Setos maintained their communal lifestyle, old customs and culture, including the unique national clothes and jewellery. Nowadays, too, Setomaa is characterized by a culture that is based on old customs, being now consciously maintained and developed.
Practical information
The Värska Farm Museum is open:
1 September – 31 May
Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 June – 31 August
Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Monday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.