Discover the Richness of Czech Museums: Unforgettable Exhibits and Timeless Treasures!
1. Skeleton of a Blue Whale (National Museum, Prague)
The colossal skeleton of a blue whale ranks as one of the most impressive natural history showcases in all of Czechia. This fully grown female blue whale stretches an astonishing 22.5 meters in length and has an approximate weight of four tonnes, offering a remarkable look into the structure of these massive marine creatures. After a meticulous reconstruction, this skeleton has now become a centerpiece of the Miracles of Evolution exhibition housed within the historic premises of the National Museum in Prague.
The Reliquary of Saint Maurus, together with the Czech royal coronation jewels, is one of the most treasured goldsmith creations in the Czech Republic. It’s also recognized as one of Europe’s most significant goldsmith artefacts. This remarkable piece, which dates back to the 13th century, holds the skeletal remains of revered figures such as St. John the Baptist, St. Maurus, St. Apollinaris, and St. Timothy. Interestingly, this reliquary was lost for centuries before being rediscovered in 1985 at Bečov nad Teplou Castle, generating significant excitement among historians and archaeologists. It’s hailed as one of the most important discoveries of its type in Europe.
3. Czech Coronation Jewels (Prague Castle)
The Czech Coronation Jewels are among the nation’s most important treasures, displayed on a selective basis within Prague Castle. With the initiative of President Petr Pavel since 2024, these jewels will be exhibited on the national holiday of St. Wenceslas. The collection features the St. Wenceslas Crown complete with its cap, cushion, and case, as well as the royal orb secured within its case, the royal sceptre also encased, and the ceremonial coronation robe.
4. Tatra 87 of Hanzelka and Zikmund (Technical Museum, Kopřivnice)
The iconic Tatra 87 automobile is famed for transporting esteemed Czech explorers Jiří Hanzelka and Miroslav Zikmund on their adventures across Africa, Asia, and Latin America during the 1950s. This distinguished vehicle is noted for its innovative aerodynamic design, which was remarkably ahead of its time. Featuring a V8 engine and a sleek profile, the Tatra 87 stands as an emblem of Czech engineering prowess and the spirit of adventure.
This remarkable aircraft, developed and constructed in 1910, was the first Czech airplane to achieve successful flight. Jan Kašpar emerged as a trailblazer of Czech aviation, and his aircraft continues to symbolize both his perseverance and the progressive technology of that era.
Astronomical instruments from the period of Tycho Brahe serve as extraordinary artefacts that demonstrate the significant advances in astronomy during the 16th century. Used by the renowned Danish astronomer, these sophisticated instruments enabled detailed observations of celestial entities and played a crucial role in the evolution of space science.
A trip to the National Technical Museum in Prague is definitely worthwhile! Besides the aforementioned treasures, you can also admire the Singing Fountain, a remarkable creation that showcased Czech ingenuity during the EXPO 1958 world exhibition.
The only tooth of a carnivorous dinosaur ever discovered in Czechia was unearthed in Brno. It can be viewed as part of the fascinating palaeontology exhibition.
This unique collection highlights jewellery and minerals showcasing the beauty of Czech garnet, known for its distinctive deep red hue. The museum’s assortment features garnets in myriad shapes and sizes along with historical items that illustrate the gemstone’s evolution from the Middle Ages to modern times.
9. Lithuanian Treasure from Helfštýn (Archaeological Museum, Olomouc)
The Lithuanian treasure from the prominent Helfštýn Castle, which has undergone acclaimed reconstruction and annually attracts talented blacksmiths from across the globe, can now be seen at the Museum in Olomouc, specifically at the Museum of Art. Visitors to this fascinating display can marvel at exquisite jewellery, ancient coins, and a variety of other artifacts that were part of this renowned medieval discovery.
DISCOVER THE SMALLEST MUSEUM IN CZECHIA. Lastly, here’s a charming suggestion for your journey—a visit to the Museum of Scales in Křenovy, which is recognized as the smallest museum in Czechia. Nestled in Křenovy, just a 40-minute drive from Plzeň, it showcases a fascinating collection of various scales. The quaint building even houses a fully operational agricultural weighing mechanism.
10. The World’s Largest Funeral Carriage (Čechy pod Kosířem)
In the quaint village of Čechy pod Kosířem, which boasts a historic château, guests can witness an exceptional array of over a hundred historical carriages, making it the largest collection in Central Europe. Among the most notable exhibits is the Golden Carriage, crafted in France in 1750, alongside the archbishop’s carriage, which has made appearances in films such as Amadeus, Sissi, and The Vampire Wedding. One of the standout pieces is the world’s largest funeral carriage, boasting impressive dimensions of six and a half meters in length and three and a half meters in height.
