“Oda” Cultural Center
The ”Oda” cultural center symbolized much about the host. The ambiance served as a form of self-expression and self-illumination. The number of rooms reflected the family’s financial status – the wealthier the family, the more rooms they had. The vibrant walls also indicated the prosperity of the villager. During that era, only a few peasants had the luxury of an outdoor or even indoor living room.
In the living room, the village elders and neighbouring residents would gather to discuss various topics, share thoughts on the world, find solutions to problems and worries, and engage in singing, reciting, and narrating fairy tales and captivating stories. Troupes and gusans were also invited to perform in these spaces.
The room’s furniture typically comprised a wooden couch, chests, backless chairs, and an assortment of fabrics such as carpets, kechas, which served as covers, curtains, and tablecloths. Illumination was provided by oil lamps and candlesticks, while the room was warmed by a hearth-toaster, around which a seating arrangement was created during the winter. Even after the construction of dedicated guest rooms, the hearth-toaster room often continued to function as a guest space, as heating the designated guest room proved to be expensive and challenging. In addition to the hearth-toaster, portable clay and tin stoves were employed for heating, fueled by burning coal.