Abstract. The paper examines the history of culturological knowledge (cultural research) from its origin to the present. The author considers this knowledge as the imperative constituent of culture, which also denotes the relevant model of cultural behaviour in particular historical epochs. The analysis is subjected to revealing successful applications of cultural achievements in certain historical situations.

Key words: culturological knowledge, mythopoetic models of culture, rational models of culture, practical models of culture, spiritual traditions, innovations, disciplinary culturological knowledge