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Museums #15 in Košice

East Slovak Museum

4.5 · 786 reviews
Scholarly and quiet
East Slovak Museum, Námestie Maratónu mieru 2, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia
Interesting facts
1

The Košice Gold Treasure, discovered during construction work in 1935, is one of the most significant coin hoards in Europe.

2

The treasure includes 2,920 gold coins minted in 81 different mints across Europe, alongside a 2.14-meter-long gold chain.

3

The museum's main building, constructed in the late 19th century, was designed by architect Mihály Komor.

4

The collection includes unique artifacts from the Paleolithic era, including the world-famous Venus of Barca figurine.

Overview

The East Slovak Museum in Košice is one of the oldest and most significant regional museums in Slovakia, housed within a prominent neo-Renaissance building. Its collection is distinguished by the Košice Gold Treasure, a hoard of 2,920 gold coins, medals, and a 17th-century Renaissance chain discovered in 1935. The museum maintains extensive archaeological, historical, and numismatic departments reflecting the development of Eastern Slovakia. The building also hosts temporary exhibitions in the multi-functional space known as the Hviezdoslavova building. It serves as a primary repository for the region's cultural heritage, spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era. The museum’s permanent exhibitions are complemented by a well-preserved botanical garden and historical library. The institution operates as a research center, frequently publishing academic findings related to its specialized numismatic holdings.

Photo spot

The ornate exterior architecture of the main building facing Námestie Maratónu mieru.

Insider tips

Prioritize viewing the Košice Gold Treasure in the specialized vault, as it is the highlight of the museum.

Check for current exhibitions at the Hviezdoslavova Street annex, which often houses smaller, thematic displays.

Allow extra time to walk through the surrounding park area, which contains several historical monuments.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to view all exhibits in a single rush; the depth of the numismatic collection requires focused attention.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Photography is often restricted in the gold treasure vault; remain quiet in gallery spaces.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.
Address
East Slovak Museum, Námestie Maratónu mieru 2, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia
48.727, 21.253
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsKošice Gold Treasure, Venus of Barca, Historical Numismatic Collection

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds..

The ornate exterior architecture of the main building facing Námestie Maratónu mieru.

Close by you'll find Saint Elisabeth's Cathedral, The Singing Fountain, National Theatre Košice.