The Zhytomyr Regional Museum of Local Lore, one of Ukraine's oldest museum institutions, was founded in the second half of the 19th century during a period of growing interest in studying the region's nature and history. The pioneers of modern museum work first united in the mid-19th century around the Volyn Provincial Statistical Committee. In 1865, a modest collection of minerals marked the beginning of the museum's holdings, which rapidly expanded thanks to the dedication of scientists, local historians, and collectors. Until 1911, these collections were stored and exhibited in the public library.

The Church and Archaeological Society, along with its Ancient Antiquities Repository established in 1893 by the progressive clergy of Volyn, played a significant role in advancing museum work in the region. In 1901, the Society of Volyn Researchers emerged, bringing together a remarkable group of talented scholars and local historians who made substantial contributions to the museum's collection.

Today, the museum houses over 180,000 natural, historical, and cultural artifacts from the region. Among the most notable exhibits are material artifacts from the 9th-13th century Raikovets settlement, traditional clothing, carpets, and handicrafts from various periods of Zhytomyr Polissya, books from the Hanski-Zhevuski library, and memorabilia of prominent local figures. The museum's highlight is its collection of Western European art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Established in 1919, the museum's art department incorporated pieces from nationalized private collections, including the renowned collections of the Barons de Chaudoire (Zhytomyr) and the Ilins'ki-Stetski family from Romaniv. This collection features works from leading European art schools, including Italy, Holland, Flanders, France, Austria, and Poland.

In addition to its exhibitions, the museum regularly hosts scientific and local history conferences, as well as educational and cultural events. These include memory lessons, creative meetings, themed evenings, literary and artistic celebrations, local history clubs, lectures, and film presentations, fostering a deeper appreciation of the region's rich heritage.

http://kraymuz.zt.ua/