Handicraft Pridnestrovie

Roll up your sleeves and connect with centuries of living tradition on the Handicraft Tourist Route of Pridnestrovie — a richly rewarding full-day journey of 60 km from Dubossary to Bender, with 4 unique craft workshops where history isn’t just observed but experienced firsthand.

Pridnestrovie is a land of deep roots. As the region celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2020, Tiraspol marked 228 years of history, Bender an extraordinary 612 — and the craft traditions woven through these communities stretch back thousands of years. From generation to generation, the secrets of pottery, weaving, woodworking and folk art have been lovingly passed down, shaped by skilled hands and kept alive by dedicated masters. This route invites you to become part of that story.

The journey begins at Galina Kharchenko’s Pottery Workshop (24 Sportivnaya Str., Vladimirovka village, Slobodzeya district) — a wonderful introduction to the ancient art of ceramics. Under the guidance of a true master of the craft, visitors can try their hand at the potter’s wheel and discover the meditative joy of shaping clay into something beautiful and lasting.

After a 26 km drive, the route continues to the Craft House-Workshop “Woolen House Mioara” (8a Dnestrovskaya Str., Slobodzeya) — a warm and welcoming space dedicated to the textile traditions of the region. From raw wool to finished fabric, this workshop offers a fascinating glimpse into the age-old craft of weaving and the rich patterns and techniques that define Pridnestrovian folk textile art.

Just 28 km further, the Woodworking Workshop of Andrey Schepansky (1 Belskaya Str., Bender) brings the journey into the fragrant world of wood. Watch and participate as raw timber is transformed into intricate objects of beauty and function — a craft that speaks to the fundamental human impulse to create and build.

The route concludes at the Regional Association of Creative Laboratories, Crafts and Crafts (42 40 Years of Victory Str., Bender) — a vibrant hub of creative energy that brings together the region’s most talented artisans under one roof. A perfect final stop to browse, appreciate and take home a piece of Pridnestrovian handicraft tradition.