May 18th is International Museum Day, celebrating the treasure troves that museums are, housing rare and fascinating artifacts that serve as authentic witnesses to the past. The Pirot Ponišavlje Museum in Serbia is a prime example, featuring a genuine house from the mid-19th century that attracts numerous visitors. The museum aims to offer a unique experience to history enthusiasts, recently adding a new attraction: a historical guide.

While it is uncertain if 19th-century Pirotski trader and house owner Hrista Jovanović personally greeted guests, both past and present visitors have enjoyed one of the most luxurious houses in the town, according to RTS.

"I explain to children how 'Gazda Risti' looked during that time, what he did, and what he was involved in," says Zoran Simeonović, an employee of the Pirot Ponišavlje Museum.

"People are very interested when they see me in this costume because it perfectly fits the ambiance," he adds.

Tanja Petrova, a Bulgarian visitor, found the museum very memorable. "The complete setup is extremely authentic and appeals to me greatly. Thanks to this 'guide,' the picture of the museum becomes grand," she emphasized.

Mateuž Bren, a Slovenian visitor, commented, "Interesting. This is the history of the city, and it’s well displayed here. Carpets… these are familiar from my childhood, some patterns. My grandmother had something like this at home—so it’s a dear memory."

To build a house on a floor in mid-19th-century Pirot, the local trader needed special permission, but many things were done according to his wishes.

"Well, a small hammer, big wheels turned." I made those doors for myself—when someone comes to me, they should bow to me. That’s how it is," Zoran Simeonović, the museum employee, said in the role of Gazda Risti. He added about the beautiful carpets, "These are fresh hand-woven carpets."

Lea Vučić, the museum’s custodian-ethnologist, pointed to an inscription and explained, "This inscription is the only material evidence of the house’s construction: 'Mašala Hrista Jovana, sazida dom svoj 1_48 April 5th.' The house was built in the Balkan Oriental style, using natural materials. The construction is bondruch and one of the most important elements of this house is the unique ceramic roof."

The spirit of the past permeates every corner of this house, which, with its tiled courtyard, forms an authentic environmental unit. And in it, Mali Risti continues to welcome guests.

(Telegraf.rs/RTS)