The National Technical Museum (Národní technické muzeum) in Prague is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the history of technology and innovation. Actually, simply for anyone interested in everyday objects around them, as even those who are not into technology that much find this museum entertaining and inspiring. Another great advantage is the museum’s location. Before or after your visit, you can enjoy a lovely stroll through the hilly area above the Vltava River, and take in the breathtaking views of the river bend and its bridges from Letná Park. One great viewpoint is the Metronome (former Stalin Memorial).
Situated in the Letná district, the museum showcases the Czech Republic’s rich industrial heritage and its contributions to global technological advancements. With its diverse collections and interactive exhibits, it offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages, including families with children.
The vast collections span a wide range of fields, including transportation, architecture, astronomy, photography, and more. One of the most impressive exhibits is the Transportation Hall, which features a wide range of historic vehicles, from vintage cars and motorcycles to locomotives and aircraft, including replicas of pioneering flying machines. One of the special exhibits is the Tatra 80, a luxurious car used by former Czechoslovak president Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk (1918-1935). In fact, the Tatra and Škoda factories were the second and third oldest car factories in the world!
The National Technical Museum is not just about static displays; it also offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors in hands-on learning. The Technology in the Home exhibition showcases the evolution of household appliances, from early washing machines to modern electronics. It allows visitors to see how technology has transformed daily life. Another standout is the Astronomy Exhibition, which explores the history of celestial observation and features a variety of instruments. Those interested in architecture and construction will find the Architecture and Civil Engineering Hall fascinating, with its exploration of the evolution of building techniques and materials. Models of iconic Czech structures, such as the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, provide insight into the country’s architectural heritage. Children and adults alike will have fun putting on period costumes and taking photos in the section about photography.
The museum takes visitors on a captivating journey through the milestones of human ingenuity, including Czech science. You might be surprised to find how many inventions and discoveries are Czech! A few examples are: contact lenses (O. Wichterle), sugar cubes (J. K. Rad), Semtex (S. Brebera), the four blood groups that we know now (J. Jánský), treatment for the Zika virus (J. Černý) and AIDS treatment (V. Holy’s team), the improved theory of cells (J. E. Purkyně) and the principal laws of heredity (G. J. Mendel). Even the words “robot” (from “robota“/forced labour) and “dolar” (from “tolar”) are Czech! The Czech Republic is currently very successful in the fields of nanotechnology, IT, medicine (including transplants), pharmaceuticals, microscope production and vinyl records. Knowledge is power, and many Czechs still read, which could be behind that success too. One of the less known facts is that in this country there is the highest number of libraries per capita in the world.
The functionalist building dating back to the 1930s is ideal for the museum, with its spacious halls and clear layout. However, the museum institution itself is older than that. It was founded in 1908 by a group of university professors, with roots dating back as far as the 18th century. Today it offers more than ten permanent exhibitions and several temporary ones. Come to discover, learn and have fun!
