Gorodets Gingerbread Museum

It is easy to guess the city name that comes into your mind if you hear the word “pryanik.” However, not all experts of Russian cuisine know that only Gorodets gingerbread is sweeter than Tula one. Unlike Tula pryanik, it is covered with glaze both from above and below.

In the 18th century, Gorodets was the largest gingerbread-baking centre where faithful admirers of a specifically Russian dessert could order their favourite delicacy of over 15 kilograms in weight. There are also giants of 25 kilograms represented in the State Historical Museum in Moscow. Another curious fact is that at that time, the price of an item exceeded the cost of the most expensive honey. In India, they were exchanged for spices and in Siberia – for superb furs. Another popular at that time handicraft, that of woodcarving, contributed to the development of gingerbread production in Gorodets. Talented masters made gingerbread printing blocks that made local gingerbread recognizable far beyond the city.

You can learn everything in relation to gingerbread in Gorodets Gingerbread Museum, which, in 2008, opened its doors to everyone wishing to learn the history of this fabulous treat. The original city museum placed the exhibitions in the ancient Petelin’s manor. There are over 30 kinds of gingerbread that were even presented as a gift to none other than the Russian Emperor Nicholas II. Small and big, with sugar and honey, nut and fruit – their aroma follows you during the whole tour. Besides, only guests of the gingerbread museum can know the old secret recipe of cooking Gorodets pryanik. Here you can taste all kinds and purchase delicious souvenirs for your family and friends.