The message reads, in part:
“Like most national museums, yours was founded by talented, committed and enthusiastic people, ardent devotees and creators. Largely due to their selfless efforts and creative energy, it has grown into a recognised centre of education and culture in the Southern Urals. Its unique collections showcase the rich history of the region from ancient times to the present day, allowing people to gain an insight into the invaluable spiritual heritage of the peoples of your native land.
It is important that you decently carry on the traditions of sincere commitment to your work established by your predecessors, implementing comprehensive educational, information and exhibition projects that attract visitors’ constant interest.”
The museum, founded in Chelyabinsk in 1923, features more than 300,000 items representing material evidence of the region’s great history starting from ancient times. The venue has over 10,000 square metres of exhibition space and is visited by up to 220,000 people a year. Each year, the museum organises over 70 expositions, as well as major cultural events and research conferences.