National Technical Museum – Building Heritage Center in Plasy

Explore the National Technical Museum – Building Heritage Center in Plasy

Discover the Architectural Legacy

Located within the historic Cistercian monastery in Plasy, the National Technical Museum’s Building Heritage Center is a premier destination for understanding building history and traditional construction techniques.

Monastery History and Renovation

A Cultural Gem in Central Europe The Cistercian monastery in Plasy has evolved significantly since its 12th-century origins, undergoing major reconstructions in the 17th and 18th centuries by architects Jean Baptista Mathey and Jan Blažej Santini. After changing hands multiple times, including ownership by the Metternich family in the 19th century, the monastery now stands as a national cultural monument, undergoing ongoing restoration efforts.

Center of Architectural Heritage

Interactive Exhibitions on Building Materials and Techniques In the renovated brewery building, the permanent Exhibition of Architecture showcases the historical evolution of building elements, materials, and constructions. Visitors can explore various building materials like wood, stone, and clay, and delve into construction techniques from foundations to trusses. The top floor features a unique exhibit dedicated to architect Jan Kaplický, highlighting modern architectural innovations.

Craft Workshops and Educational Activities

Hands-On Learning and Historic Machinery Adjacent to the brewery, the renovated mill building hosts thematic exhibitions and multi-purpose spaces. The economic yard area features craft workshops where visitors can engage in activities focused on traditional construction methods and learn from historic construction machines. Special exhibitions like “Statika hrou” offer insights into static principles with interactive displays and models.

Medieval Construction Technology

Medieval Machinery and Heritage Preservation Newly renovated lager cellars house a permanent exhibition showcasing functional replicas of medieval construction machines, offering a glimpse into Europe’s medieval building practices. Visitors can explore large-scale replicas and original artifacts, such as a pointed door leaf from Prague’s St. Hastala church and Gothic stone window tracery from Kámen Castle.

Special Exhibitions and UNESCO Recognition

Preserving Film and Automotive Heritage Experience special exhibitions like the 2024 addition of Émile Reynaud’s early film projection strip, recognized in UNESCO’s Memory of the World register. The museum also features exhibitions like “Tatra 77a – from a miracle to a wreck and back,” showcasing a restored 1937 Tatra 77a passenger car and its historical context.

Visitor Information

Location: National Technical Museum – Building Heritage Center in Plasy, Pivovarská 5, 331 01 Plasy
Operator: National Technical Museum
Contact: Tel. +420 373 300 730, Email: csd@ntm.cz
Website: National Technical Museum – Building Heritage Center in Plasy
GPS Coordinates: 49.935782, 13.389507

Opening Hours:

• March – June: Thursday – Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
• June – September: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
• September – October: Thursday – Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00

Admission Prices:

• Adults: 200 CZK
• Reduced Price (Students, Seniors): 150 CZK
• Family Ticket: 440 CZK

(Special reduced entrance days available throughout the year.)

Plan Your Visit to Plasy’s Building Heritage Center

Immerse yourself in the rich history of architecture and construction at the National Technical Museum’s Building Heritage Center in Plasy. Explore centuries-old techniques, marvel at medieval machinery, and discover the evolution of building materials through interactive exhibits and workshops.