Museums
Discover the history of the Orlické Mountains and the Podorlicko region
A glimpse into the times of our ancestors is offered by museums in the Orlické Mountains and the Podorlicko region. Some focus on nature, others on history, crafts, or everyday life in the mountains and foothills. There are small local exhibitions as well as larger museums with rich collections. Together they show how the landscape and its people have changed over time. They offer a peaceful place for discovery and reflection. Children won’t miss out either, as many of them regularly prepare exhibits and rich, fun programs for them.
Vamberk Lace Museum
At the foot of the Orlické Mountains, in the picturesque little town of Vamberk, lies a treasure finer than mountain mist. The Lace Museum, the only one of its kind in the Czech Republic, is a place where every stitch, knot, and loop weaves a story of women’s skill, patience, and beauty. Here, lace is more than a craft. It is proof of an art that has endured for centuries and still enchants with its delicacy and precision.
Museum of Old Machines
In the heart of the Orlické Foothills, on the grounds of a former factory in Žamberk, you’ll find the Museum of Old Machines and Technologies, which is far from a boring exhibition. It’s a living industrial organism where old machines awaken to life again, showcasing the beauty of honest craftsmanship and the ingenuity of past generations. If you like the clink of metal, the rhythm of a steam engine, and the atmosphere of technical workshops, you’ll love it here.
Museum of Natural History, the Countryside and Tramping
You’ll find an extensive museum, including a social hall, in the building of a former granary in the Doudleby nad Orlicí chateau grounds, right next to Grandma’s yard with animals. The building itself, which has undergone a thorough renovation, is well worth seeing. The main attraction, however, is the indoor exhibitions. These include an original diorama of forest wildlife, the craft treasures of our grandmothers and grandfathers, and a fascinating collection of items connected with Czech tramping. The stylish setting with its original exposed masonry lends the entire space a unique atmosphere.
