Regional Museum of K. A. Polanek

The Regional Museum of K. A. Polánek in Žatec, in the hop-growing region of northwestern Czechia, holds the town's most established collection of local history and natural science exhibits, covering both the city and the wider Podbořany area.

How did the museum come about?

The institution dates back to 1896. Following the Second World War it operated until 1960 as a district museum, serving the whole former Žatec district, before being reorganized as a municipal museum. It carries the name of Karel Alois Polánek, a teacher and regional historian whose research, especially during the interwar decades, laid much of the groundwork for how the town's past is documented today.

Where are the exhibitions housed?

Rather than one central building, the collection is spread across three separate sites, none of them right in the historic core: on Husova Street, Zeyerova Street, and Volyňských Čechů Street. Splitting the museum this way means each location can focus on its own theme rather than cramming everything into a single overcrowded hall.

What can you see inside?

The headline exhibit, open since January 2023, tells the story of the so-called Žatec treasure — a find that draws in both dedicated history buffs and casual visitors looking for something beyond a standard glass case. The museum also leans into hands-on formats: the "Žatecký stroj času" (Žatec Time Machine) walks visitors through the town's history in an interactive, multimedia format that works particularly well for families with children. Another distinctive corner is the Cabinet of Hop Stamps, one of the most extensive collections of its kind in Europe — a direct nod to the hop-growing tradition Žatec has been known for over centuries.

When should you visit?

The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00, and on weekends from 13:00 to 17:00. It is closed on Mondays, which is worth keeping in mind when planning a day trip around Žatec — arriving at the start of the week means finding the doors shut. Because the exhibits are split across three addresses, it is worth checking the current program and opening hours on muzeumzatec.cz before setting out.

Who is it for?

Because the collection is spread over three buildings, seeing everything takes more than a quick stop at a single hall — it is worth budgeting extra time if you want the full picture. The museum suits anyone interested in local history, archaeology, or the specifics of a hop-growing region, while the interactive time machine keeps things engaging for younger visitors too.

Frequently asked questions

Who is the museum named after? Karel Alois Polánek, a teacher and regional historian who was especially active documenting the Žatec area's history during the interwar period.

How many buildings make up the museum? Three, located on Husova, Zeyerova, and Volyňských Čechů streets, all outside the immediate town center.

What is the main attraction? The exhibition on the Žatec treasure, open since January 2023, along with the interactive Žatec Time Machine installation.

Is the museum open on Mondays? No, it is closed on Mondays. Visiting hours run Tuesday to Friday (9:00–17:00) and weekends (13:00–17:00).