Muzeum vesnice jihovýchodní Moravy

Muzeum vesnice jihovýchodní Moravy (Museum of the Village of South-East Moravia) is one of the largest open-air museums in the Czech Republic, sitting on the edge of the town of Strážnice in South Moravia. Spread across 16 hectares, it brings together more than 60 historic buildings relocated here from various corners of the Slovácko region, from its mountainous villages to the fertile lowlands of Pomoraví. Built between 1973 and 1981, the museum recreates rural life in south-eastern Moravia from the 17th to the 19th century.

What will you see at the open-air museum?

Walking the paths between thatched-roof cottages, craft workshops and farm buildings, visitors can trace the architectural differences between the various micro-regions of Slovácko. A particular highlight is the collection of water-powered structures, including mills that once served the surrounding farms, along with a vineyard section that recalls the winemaking traditions of this part of Moravia. Interiors of selected cottages are furnished to show everyday household life, from kitchens and living rooms to the tools of farmers and craftsmen.

Thanks to its authentic, centuries-old atmosphere, the museum grounds have repeatedly served as a film location, especially for fairy-tale and costume films — walking through, it is easy to see why. The wooden houses, clay walls and thatched roofs create a picture of village life largely untouched by modern development.

How to get there?

The open-air museum lies on the grounds of Strážnice, a small town in the Hodonín district close to the Slovak border. The easiest way to arrive is by car or bus — Strážnice has good connections to Uherské Hradiště, Hodonín and Veselí nad Moravou, the latter also served by rail. From the town centre, it is a short walk to the museum entrance.

When to visit?

The museum is open from May to October, daily except Mondays, from 9:00 to 16:00 (until 17:00 on weekends, and every day until 17:00 in July and August). The last weekend of June is a particularly good time to visit, as Strážnice hosts the International Folklore Festival, one of the most important folklore events in the Czech Republic, with the museum grounds becoming one of its main stages. Throughout the season the museum also runs more than twelve themed events showcasing traditional customs and crafts — it is worth checking the calendar before visiting, since on these days the site comes alive with craftsmen demonstrating old techniques and staff dressed in folk costume.

Who is it for?

This is an attraction well suited to families with children as well as anyone interested in folk architecture or regional history. Given the size of the grounds and the number of scattered buildings, it is worth setting aside at least two to three hours for a visit — or a full day if you time it with one of the festivals.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit to the open-air museum take? A full walk through the 16-hectare site with its more than 60 buildings usually takes 2–3 hours; on festival days you can easily spend a whole day there.

Is the open-air museum open all year round? No, it operates seasonally, from May to October, closed on Mondays. Outside this period the grounds are closed to visitors.

What should you see first? The thatched-roof cottages typical of the different Slovácko micro-regions, the craft workshops, the water-powered buildings, and in summer the vineyard.

Are there any events held at the museum? Yes, more than 12 themed events take place each year, with the biggest being the International Folklore Festival Strážnice on the last weekend of June.