Museum of «The Tsar's Sheep»: the Golden Fleece of Peter the Great

Museums and Exhibitions

There is an unusual museum on the outskirts of Tutaev, the extensive exposition of which is devoted to the pride of the region — Romanov or «The Tsar’s sheep». This valuable breed was brought to Tutaev (Romanov-Borisoglebsk) from Silesia at the behest of Emperor Peter the Great. In addition to a thousand sheep, at the same time two flock-masters arrived from Germany: they taught local people how to breed sheep and the art of making good-quality sheepskin. Romanovskaya breed is still considered to be one of the best ones — its fur is very light, beautiful and warm.

The Museum of «The Tsar’s Sheep» was established in 2004 to preserve the breed and continue the tradition of making sheepskin products. In the 80 years of the XX century the breed was on the verge of extinction, but today thanks to the efforts of local enthusiasts it has regained its value. The museum stores a large number of exhibits from Romanov’s sheepskin. The foundation is also supplemented every year with new products: sheepskin coats, hats, quilted jackets and mittens, sheepskins of all sizes, as well as products of local craftsmen. But the most important exhibit is Romanov sheepskin coat, which became indispensable winter clothing for merchants and coachmen of the 19th century. In Tutaev the annual Golden Fleece of Russia festival is held, where one can see products made of Romanov’s sheepskin and touch the wool of real sheep. At any time Romanov’s sheep can be seen on the territory of the Zatsepins’ estate, where they are grazing in specially assigned paddocks.

Museum of «The Tsar's Sheep»: the Golden Fleece of Peter the Great

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