Plzeň is home to the world-renowned Skupa and Spejbl puppet characters, which were created here in the 1920s.
The museum building itself is a protected cultural monument, preserving medieval architectural elements.
Czech puppetry is included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The collection features unique 'mechanical' stages that demonstrate the technical side of 19th-century theater.
Some exhibits are arranged to mimic the original domestic theaters used by families in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Puppet Museum (Muzeum loutek) in Plzeň is housed in a historical gothic building on the city's main square, celebrating the long-standing Czech tradition of puppetry. The collection traces the evolution of marionettes from traditional folk theater to modern professional performance. Visitors explore multiple floors displaying hundreds of historic puppets, including those belonging to famous Czech puppeteer families. Interactive exhibits allow guests to try manipulating various types of puppets themselves. The museum is a key center for the documentation of Plzeň’s significance in the global puppetry scene, an art form recognized by UNESCO.
The interactive stage area where you can pose with iconic Czech puppet characters.
Use the dedicated interactive play areas to test your own puppeteering skills.
Check the local bulletin board at the entrance for any current temporary performances.
Visit the top floor first to see the panoramic views of the main square before working your way down.
Do not touch the antique puppets behind the glass; only use designated interactive stations.
Closed on Mondays.
