Istebna Spruce Museum in Jaworzynka

The Istebna Spruce Museum in Jaworzynka is a museum and education centre in the hamlet of Wyrch Czadeczka in the Silesian Beskids. It has operated since 2001 at the Regional Gene Bank of the Istebna Spruce, which is part of the Carpathian Gene Bank run by the Wisła Forest District.

What the exhibition shows

The exhibition tells of the history of the Beskid spruce stands and research on them, and of the growth cycle of the Istebna spruce, a variety of Norway spruce, from seeds to showcase specimens of trees. It also shows the characteristics of the wood from which, among other things, folk musical instruments are made. Next to the museum there is a forest nursery.

In 2002 the Demonstration Capercaillie Aviary was created here, where one can learn about the life and habits of these birds, which are bred in aviaries in order to release them in the Beskid forests.

Practical information

• The museum and the enclosure are open by prior appointment. This information is not confirmed on the forest district's website, so arrange a date for your visit before you come.
• The centre also organises talks and campfire meetings.
• Nearby: the Lace Museum in Koniaków, Kawulok's Smoke Cottage and the "Na Grapie" Regional Museum in Jaworzynka.