Shira-kotar

Shira-kotar (from Chechen "old farm") is an ethnographic village and open-air museum located on the outskirts of the village of Hermenchuk in the Shali district of the Chechen Republic. The project was implemented in 2014 by the method of popular construction: about 40 traditional houses (sakli), a forge, a mill, a mosque and a stone watchtower about 23-25 meters high were built.

Historical and cultural significance

• Shira-kotar reproduces the traditional dwellings of the Vainakhs of the XVIII-XIX centuries, reflecting the way of life, architecture and life of the local population of that time.

• The 23 m high stone tower is a symbol of the defensive architecture of the region and can be visited and climbed.

• The construction of the ethnovillage became part of the program of cultural revival and tourist development of the region, stimulating interest in folk crafts, traditions and ethnography.

Why you should visit

• Immersion in the atmosphere: a walk through the streets of Shira Kotar gives a feeling of travel in time - wooden and stone buildings, ancient household items, traditional farmsteads.

• Photogenicity: architecture, tower, old houses and nature around create many successful angles for photos.

• Cognitive experience: visitors will learn about the way of the Vainakh people, crafts, history of the region - excursions are held regularly, and the place is included in tourist routes.

• Cultural events: festivals and competitions of national sports are regularly held on the territory of the complex, which adds brightness to the visit.

Practical advice

• Place: village Hermenchuk, Shali district, Chechen Republic.

• Mode of work: according to information, the complex is open for visiting, free entrance.

• It is better to arrive with a guide or excursion group - so you can learn more about history and traditions. Tour operators include Shira Kotar in routes in Chechnya.

• Do not forget to take comfortable shoes, you can spend time outdoors, a walk around the complex is part of the impression.

• Please provide up-to-date information about access and events in advance.