The Maria Żywirska Open-Air Museum in Brańszczyk

The Maria Żywirska Open-Air Museum in Brańszczyk, established in 2015 on the initiative of the local government, aims to protect and promote the cultural heritage of the Kurpie Białe—a unique ethnic group known for their distinctive costumes, customs, and architecture. The museum was created thanks to funding from the Rural Development Program and the non-gratuitous lease of a plot of land by Wyszków County. The site features selected structures, such as wooden cottages from Trzcianka, barns, a forge, and a replica of a well, which together form an authentic rural homestead. The interiors of the cottages are richly furnished with everyday objects, including a loom from 1897. The museum organizes a diverse program of permanent and temporary exhibitions, including displays dedicated to ethnographer Maria Żywirska and miniature agricultural equipment crafted by Stanisław Kądziela. Outdoor events, such as harvest festivals, fairs, and family picnics, attract both the local community and tourists. The museum has been recognized by local authorities, receiving the Award of the Starost of Wyszków County for promoting culture and heritage. It is also worth noting that the museum grounds are used for photo sessions, including professional film productions, underscoring its importance as a cultural site in the region.