Museums and galleries Spišský Štiavnik

Are you interested in life beneath the Tatras throughout the course of history? Visit Podtatranské múzeum and let yourself be drawn into the history of settlement in the Tatra region, from the Neanderthal to the present day. Podtatranské múzeum is located in the district town of Poprad, which serves as the gateway to Vysoké Tatry. Get to know the life and nature in Poprad and its immediate surroundings through the mirror of ages, or enter a mystical princely tomb from the 4th century.

Podtatranské múzeum was founded in 1876 by the Hungarian Carpathian Association as a culmination of its continuous interest in the natural environment and cultural-historical monuments of the Sub-Tatra and Tatra regions. In addition to the main building on Vajanského Street in Poprad, the museum also includes a branch in Spišská Sobota, which attracts visitors with its own exhibitions.

Podtatranské múzeum in Poprad presents two separate exhibitions to history enthusiasts. The first of these is titled "Poprad a okolie v zrkadle vekov" (Poprad and Surroundings in the Mirror of Ages) and tells the story of the continuous settlement of the town of Poprad and its immediate surroundings through historical artifacts. A major highlight for tourists is the exhibition titled "Knieža z Popradu a jeho hrobka" (The Prince of Poprad and His Tomb). This is a unique archaeological exhibition showcasing an archaeological find of European significance, the tomb of a Germanic prince from the turn of the 4th and 5th centuries AD. At a depth of 5 meters underground, a roofed wooden log chamber with a wooden sarcophagus has been perfectly preserved, along with interior furnishings, remains of the deceased's clothing, and everyday items and utility objects made of bronze, silver, and gold.

Four exhibitions are available to visitors at the museum's branch in Spišská Sobota. The exhibition titled Guilds and Crafts" presents collections of guild vessels, guild emblems, summoning tablets, signboards, and various other historical objects linked to typical crafts in the Sub-Tatra region. “Bourgeois Living” is a presentation of a bourgeois house from the beginning of the 20th century. On the ground floor, there is a bourgeois study furnished with furniture and period items. On the upper floor, two smaller rooms with home accessories, clothing, and the bedroom of a bourgeois family are open to visitors. The exhibition titled “Grandeur and Humility” is dedicated to the sacred art of northern Spiš, presenting artistic and historical objects that once formed part of church interiors. The final exhibition section is titled “Personalities of Spišská Sobota” and offers visitors the chance to become acquainted with the most prominent local natives.

Exploring the attractions of the Tatras and the adjacent Sub-Tatra region undoubtedly includes tasting the local cultural and historical heritage. Podtatranské múzeum in Poprad opens its doors to tourists and visitors with just such an offer. If you decide to accept their invitation, you can combine your museum visit with a trip to nearby Popradské pleso, or let yourself be tempted by the local water paradise AquaCity Poprad. The offer of experiences beneath the Tatras is truly diverse, and a single day in this region is never enough. Therefore, you will certainly appreciate the accommodation options near Podtatranské múzeum. Offering accommodation in Poprad, you will find a wide range of guesthouses, villas, and hotels, as well as cottages and chalets in the immediate surroundings.

Our impressive high mountains, the Vysoké Tatry, have long attracted visitors not only with their rocky peaks and unique natural scenery. This tourist region offers a wide spectrum of interesting attractions and unique opportunities for original experiences. Without a doubt, one such place is Tricklandia, the most remarkable gallery of trick-art and optical illusions in Slovakia. It is located in Starý Smokovec, in the oldest settlement of the town of Vysoké Tatry. In this enchanting place, you will experience a journey through Slovakia through tricks and illusions. You will get to know the themes of Slovak folk tales and fairy tales, as well as distinct villages and picturesque castles of Slovakia, through a interplay between the artist and your senses. Do not forget your mobile phone or camera, and remember: nothing is as it seems at first glance.

The Tricklandia gallery covers an area of 500 m². The entire facility is wheelchair accessible, making it appealing not only to lovers of unusual entertainment, but also to families with children and active seniors. Visitors can expect 24 unique attractions including 15 trick-art paintings, augmented reality, anti-gravity rooms, as well as the most beautiful mirror maze in Central Europe. One of the newest highlights of Tricklandia is the COMICS exhibition, which features an exhibition of illustrations by the artist Miroslav Matuščinec. These illustrations are interesting because they come to life using an app. As a visitor, you will thus find yourself in the role of a superhero, brush a hippo's teeth, or hang on a clothesline along with freshly washed laundry.

Are you asking what trick-art actually is? It is the art of depicting two-dimensional drawings in a way that evokes a three-dimensional reality. Engage all your senses and let yourself be carried away by artwork presenting journeys through unique Slovak culture. In Tricklandia, these works will act on your brain to create original sensory illusions. Believe nothing and try to reveal as many tricks as possible. We wish you great fun.

Tricklandia was built in the Tatras over precisely one year, and its founders worked a total of 9,600 hours during that time. A total of 6 m³ of wood and 9,600 screws were used for construction. For the unique artwork, 2,000 spray cans were used, and there are an incredible 200 m² of mirrors in the mirror kingdom.

If you have only been considering a vacation in the Tatras until now, you should definitely start packing your bags now. In addition to mountain hiking, excellent skiing, and cable car trips, you will now experience something truly unbelievable here. The Tricklandia gallery will deceive your senses and prepare a unique adventure for you. You can combine your visit with a hike to Slavkovský štít peak or to Vodopády Studeného potoka waterfalls. Or would you rather take the Pozemná lanovka na Hrebienok to Hrebienok? In Starý Smokovec, there are truly plenty of opportunities. Just as there are plenty of accommodation options near Tricklandia. The Tatras are a true paradise for vacationers. Accommodation in Starý Smokovec will pleasantly surprise you with a wide selection of beautiful apartments, villas, private rooms, as well as cabins and cottages in the immediate surrounding area.

In the center of the Spiš region, in the town of Spišská Nová Ves, you will find one of the youngest collecting institutions in Slovakia. Take a look inside a gallery with more than 2,300 pieces of artwork and visual artifacts. Paintings, illustrations, graphics, photographs, and modern intermedial works will captivate visitors young and old. Various cultural and educational activities are prepared for all age groups, complete with educational or interactive execution. Visit one of the 3 permanent exhibitions and broaden your horizons.

The first exhibition, entitled Umelci Spiša, showcased the works of regional artists who developed this area in Spiš. Over time, it was replaced by the permanent exhibition Terra Gothica, which presents a Gothic route created from collections in this artistic style. More than 40 selected authors capture the Spiš region with its architectural gems and places in their works. A modern execution using an interactive panel will lead you through the entire collection remotely if desired. Directly via a map, you can access the depicted places or parts of the landscape.

The permanent exhibition of Jozef Hanula is dedicated to the life and work of this prominent representative of Slovak visual art. It includes an interactive map that serves as a guide to the sites of Jozef Hanula's realizations. There are more than 60 such locations across Slovakia where the author created wall paintings. The collection of three permanent exhibitions concludes with the Záhrada umenia (Garden of Art). In the gallery's exterior, you will find a sculpture exhibition that builds upon the Spiš tradition of co-existence among multiple groups and ethnicities. The collection consists of 16 works made of Spiš travertine, wood, or metal, crafted by artists from Poland, Ukraine, Romania, and the Czech Republic alongside Slovaks. The gallery supplements its program with thematic and temporary exhibitions. For several years, it has been moving forward with the times as part of the Google Art Project, which brings artworks closer to people around the world via the internet.

Has art and history enchanted you? Do not miss the Múzeum Spiša, which is housed in the Provinčný dom, the most valuable architectural building in Spiš. Are you drawn to historical technologies and achievements of that era? Pay a visit to the Multifunkčné energetické a banícke centrum, which houses the exhibition História baníctva na Spiši. If you decide to go on a trip with the little ones, plan a visit to Zoologická záhrada Spišská Nová Ves. Book accommodation near Galéria umelcov Spiša. Choose from our selection of guesthouses or cozy apartments and enjoy your vacation in Spiš.

The Spiš region is an unusually rich treasury of artistic, historical, and cultural monuments. It is not just the impressive Spišský hrad castle or the ancient town of Levoča, but a whole spectrum of more or less known cultural and natural treasures. A unique place making one of the gems of the cultural wealth of Spiš accessible is Múzeum meštianskej bytovej kultúry. This unique exhibition has found its place in a burgher house on Hlavné námestie in Kežmarok. It presents visitors with artistic and craft exhibits set in a period interior from the 19th century.

What was the life of wealthier burghers and nobles in Spiš like in past years? What kind of kitchen did they cook in? How did they dine? Where did they rest, relax, and what did their bedroom look like? You will find answers to these and many other questions at Múzeum meštianskej bytovej kultúry. Collection items documenting the period interiors of burghers from the 17th to the 19th century are on display in the burgher house. At the same time, the exhibition presents a rich and valuable collection of Spiš arts, crafts, and fine art.

Allow yourself to be invited for a visit to the apartment of the last countess of Kežmarok. Most of the museum's exhibits originate from the estate of Baroness Hedviga Mária von Szirmay. Among the most valuable pieces of the exhibition are undoubtedly wedding chests from the mid-17th century. The enthusiasm of visitors is also sparked by a Neoclassical chest decorated with a unique painting of exotic flora.

A true gem of artistic craftsmanship is undoubtedly the collection of clocks by Spiš and Viennese masters. It also includes particularly valuable table clocks by the Levoča clockmaker Michael Topscher from the 18th century. Ladies who are fascinated by fashion and fashion accessories will certainly be captivated by examples of period clothing and clothing accessories of burghers. A unique exhibit in this collection is a piece of jewelry made of human hair. After all, they say that hair is the crown of beauty.

If you usually like to enrich your holiday with a walk through time, allow yourself to be invited to Múzeum meštianskej bytovej kultúry in Kežmarok at the next opportunity. During your visit, definitely do not pass by Kežmarská radnica town hall, one of the most important historical monuments of the town. It is situated right in the middle of Hlavné námestie. You can also vary your trip to the center of the historical Spiš region with a tour of the particularly well-preserved Kežmarský hrad castle, where exhibitions of weapons or a medieval pharmacy will surely appeal to you. Enchanted by the cultural and historical wealth and pleasantly tired, you will certainly rest in one of the guesthouses or apartments offering accommodation near Múzeum meštianskej bytovej kultúry. The selection of accommodation in Kežmarok and the immediate surroundings is truly diverse.

Múzeum v Kežmarku, in the beautiful town below the High Tatras, opens its doors to you in as many as three different locations. Why is that? It groups under itself three separate entities: Kežmarský hrad castle, Výstavná sieň exhibition hall, and Múzeum bytovej kultúry museum of housing culture. Kežmarok, which is among the oldest Slovak towns, is located in the Prešov Region, in the popular traditional region of Spiš. It is precisely the location and its typical elements that you will feel and perceive at every step in the individual exhibitions of the museum.

You will view elements of period housing of wealthier burgher or noble classes from the period from the mid-17th century to the end of the 19th century in Múzeum bytovej kultúry Spiša. It is located in an old reconstructed burgher house on Hlavné námestie No. 55. This is a truly exceptional exhibition that is very unique in the territory of our country. It presents a cross-section of all areas of housing. It will show you not only the kitchen or dining section, but also the bedroom or salons. The most valuable elements of the exhibition have been preserved after the "last countess of Kežmarok." Among them are very rare wedding chests of Spiš provenance from the mid-17th century. Another period, specifically the 18th century, is represented by furniture in the Rococo, Neoclassical, and Louis XVI styles. You will not miss secretaries, chests of drawers, or card tables. The period of the 19th century has the richest representation among the exhibits, being a cross-section of Empire, Biedermeier, Second Rococo, Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, Eclecticism, and also early Art Nouveau. The exhibition is complemented by a very valuable collection of clocks by Spiš and Viennese masters, as well as examples of clothing, photographs, and paintings.

You can tour Kežmarský hrad as the only fully preserved castle in Spiš. It has a rich past that is shrouded in many legends and emphasized by permanent exhibitions. Here you will find exhibitions of guilds and crafts, a town hall room, a pharmacy, a dungeon, an observation tower, a lapidarium, a castle chapel, a gallery, and an exhibition of weapons and historical vehicles. The tour will introduce you to the life and work of Dr. Vojtech Alexander, the political development of the revolutionary years, as well as the history and development of the town from an economic, cultural, social, and educational perspective. Likewise, given the proximity of our high mountains, one exhibition is dedicated to the locals' relationship to the Tatras. It maps the beginnings of alpine tourism in Spiš, as well as the settlement history of the region. However, the whole tour will also leave you with a deep artistic experience thanks to the paintings and unique architecture.

If you also want to visit Výstavná sieň, you must move to MUDr. Alexandra Street No. 11. This unique burgher house will show you the oldest preserved architectural elements of times long past. The entrance portal is decorated with unique preserved Renaissance painted decoration. In addition, original and very valuable details of Gothic and Renaissance architecture are preserved in the building. Thanks to the tour, you will soak up the unique atmosphere of Kežmarok burghers and get closer to their life at that time.

Although Kežmarok is a historical town, which the individual exhibitions of the museum suggest, you will also find many other great activities in the surrounding area. Therefore, plan your trip for several days and take advantage of accommodation near Múzeum v Kežmarku. The location of the town is an ideal starting point for all tourists, a few minutes by car separate you from visiting Tatranský národný park, Národný park Slovenský raj, and Pieninský národný park. If you are not a fan of hikes, do not despair. In the immediate vicinity, you will also find parks full of water fun in regular and thermal water or skiing options in winter. However, comfortable accommodation in Kežmarok, for example in apartments or guesthouses, also brings opportunities for perfect relaxation and sweet idling. Do not let yourself be persuaded for long and start planning your trip to the attractions in Kežmarok.

This unique interactive children's gallery is guided by a revolutionary, yet wonderfully simple idea: "let's play smartly". After all, it was during childhood that many of us discovered the magic of the profession that feeds us today. Play doesn't just mean sitting at a computer. Play in childhood should be full of discoveries, imagination, dreams, laughter, and yes, occasionally some dirt, torn pants, or scraped knees. Galéria Dobrá hračka fosters creativity, teamwork, self-confidence, and spontaneity in children. So don't hesitate and come visit with your children too. You can even host a children's birthday party here or expand your home toy collection with truly unique pieces from the local shop.

In Tatranská Lomnica, right opposite the Múzeum Tatranského národného parku, a children's paradise stretches across an area of 500 m². Remember what it was like to dream about becoming a police officer or an astronaut? With us, children try out the profession firsthand. Little police officers direct traffic here and fine non-compliance with traffic regulations. On top of that, however, they will investigate a crime scene and perhaps even solve a tricky case. An obstacle course will test the fitness of many a little firefighter. Will yours be the one to help a kitten down from a tree?

While one child is drawn to a uniform, the hearts of others will be won over by science. Little doctors will treat minor injuries, learn something new about the human body, and maybe even put together an X-ray image. A future archaeologist will use a hammer slightly different from a medical one when searching for excavations. And who knows, maybe they will find their very first one right at Dobrá hračka. Discovering everyday life is also fascinating, though. How does a cogwheel turn, and what does it need teeth for if it doesn't go to the dentist? Our factory provides the answer, where children have already assembled many a working machine.

If your little princess likes dressing up dolls, you, and herself, perhaps a fashion designer's talent lies within her, just waiting to mature. Mandatory equipment includes tailor's chalk, a tape measure, scissors, and, of course, plenty of creative and quirky ideas. On the runway under the spotlights, they can showcase a graceful walk and command all the attention. Maybe a drummer in the music corner will play to their beat! However, lovers of fast driving will also have fun here. They can cruise the roads (watch out for the police officer!), but also look under the hood of a Formula car in the role of auto mechanics. Check the tires, refuel, and head out! Yet that's still not all, but we won't reveal any more to you so that you have some surprises left.

Good children don't misbehave; good children play. And they love to play most of all in Galéria Dobrá hračka, so come see for yourself as well. Moreover, if you book accommodation near Galéria Dobrá hračka, you can plan a great multi-day trip full of fun. Children and adults alike love the exhibition at the Múzeum Tatranského národného parku, where, for example, they can explore a bear den from the inside. And if you hop on the Tatra electric railway (tatranská električka), all the attractions of Vysoké Tatry will be within reach, hiking, family, relaxation, and gastronomy. The Tatry are indeed a region of unlimited possibilities, so come explore them. Apartments in Tatranská Lomnica and cottages in Vysoké Tatry are already waiting for you.

Galéria Lomnica in Tatranská Lomnica represents a unique cultural space that brings top-tier Slovak and international fine art into the environment of our highest mountains within a modern and bright interior.

The cultural institution is located in the center of Tatranská Lomnica, in the district of Poprad, in the Prešovský kraj. It is housed in a historical building that underwent comprehensive reconstruction, retaining its original character while seamlessly connecting into a modern hotel. Galéria Lomnica focuses on presenting works by prominent Slovak artists such as Janko Alexy or Mikuláš Galanda, while also regularly organizing thematic exhibitions of contemporary painters, sculptors, and photographers. The spaces are designed so that natural daylight streaming through generous glass surfaces highlights the details of the exhibited objects. In addition to exhibition halls, the gallery also features outdoor areas with sculptures and installations that interact with the surrounding panoramic view of Lomnický štít in every season. The gallery's atmosphere is intimate and tranquil, creating a counterweight to the bustling tourist life in the center of the settlement and inviting quiet contemplation over art. Thanks to its location and high standard of services, the gallery is a permanent fixture on the cultural map of Vysoké Tatry, frequently serving as a venue for literary evenings, exhibition openings, and expert lectures.

What can you find here?

On the gallery premises, you will find permanent exhibitions of classic Slovak painting, temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, and an outdoor garden with sculptural works. A stylish café with a terrace, information materials on current exhibitions, and the option to purchase art publications or selected works are available. The interior is fully air-conditioned and barrier-free, tailored for the comfort of every visitor.

Who is the place suitable for?

The place is ideal for lovers of art, aesthetics, and history seeking cultural enrichment during their stay in Vysoké Tatry. It is also sought after by spa guests and families who prefer a calmer itinerary, or photographers looking for interesting architectural details. Given the nature of the institution, visitors are expected to observe quiet decorum and wear standard smart-casual attire.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

In close proximity lies the Múzeum Tatranského národného parku, which documents the nature and history of the Tatras, alongside the neighboring Botanická záhrada – Expozícia tatranskej prírody. You can also visit the Ski múzeum, which maps the history of skiing, or take a cable car up to Skalnaté pleso or directly to Lomnický štít. For relaxation after visiting the gallery, the park in the center of Tatranská Lomnica is within reach, offering numerous paths for easy walks.