Západočeské muzeum v Plzni
Západočeské muzeum v Plzni
4
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
359 within 3 miles
Attractions
83 within 6 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.0
51 reviews
Excellent
23
Very good
17
Average
8
Poor
2
Terrible
1
justonehuman
San Rafael de Escazu, Costa Rica37 contributions
Apr 2014 • Friends
This museum is divided into three distinct exhibits: the Plzen Municipal Armory, the Archaeology wing, and the History wing. You can by a ticket to see any one of them, or all three -- and the price of the latter is so low that there's no reason not to get that "deluxe" ticket.
The Municipal Armory is a collection of weapons, armor, and other military hardware which dates mainly from the 16th-17th centuries, which is sure to delight Ren Faire fans or military history buffs. The objects in collection have been lovingly preserved, and are laid out on shelves and racks to give you the impression that the 17th Century Town Militia might march in at any moment. There's also a distinctly human side to the Armory: you can still see, for example, the initials or monograms of their owners on some of the muskets' stocks. There's only one drawback here, but it's a biggie: sadly, they don't allow photos to be taken in the Armory, so you won't be able to take any images home from the exhibit. It's a real shame, considering how nicely presented it is -- but at least you can go onto the museum's web portal, which has 360-degree panning photos of the two main rooms. Still, it's not the same thing as getting your own photos, but it'll have to do.
I'm an archaeologist myself, so I was very curious to see how they set up the Archaeology section of the museum. The Archaeology section covers a vast period of human prehistory in Western Bohemia, ranging from the Palaeolithic through the Iron Age. While there aren't any famous treasures in here, the objects on display are extremely well-preserved considering their age, and have been laid out with considerable care. Also, there are several videos and other displays which give detailed information about the ongoing experimental archaeology projects being done in this region, such as smelting bronze the old-fashioned way -- but like everything else in the Archaeology section, these are only in Czech. Even without the explanations, there's a lot to see and marvel at, but it's a real shame that the archaeology section has no explanations in English or German (which is quite noticeable because both the History section and the Armory do.)
Finally, the History section houses numerous informative displays which cover various aspects of life in Western Bohemia from the 11th-19th centuries AD. Although most of the exhibits focus on historical developments in Plzen itself -- not surprising, as it's the regional capital and the largest city -- there are also some displays which touch on, for instance, the lives of rural peasants during the 12th-13th centuries. As a result, a very nice cross-section of Western Bohemian history is presented in this section.
On the whole, I was very impressed by this museum. The curators have clearly put a great deal of time, effort, and thought into making the most of the materials they have to work with to tell the story of the region's past in an engaging way. The only real frowny-face I have to offer is the lack of English or German explanations in the Archaeology section; otherwise, I highly recommend this museum to anyone visiting Plzen who is even remotely interested in history, art, or archaeology!
The Municipal Armory is a collection of weapons, armor, and other military hardware which dates mainly from the 16th-17th centuries, which is sure to delight Ren Faire fans or military history buffs. The objects in collection have been lovingly preserved, and are laid out on shelves and racks to give you the impression that the 17th Century Town Militia might march in at any moment. There's also a distinctly human side to the Armory: you can still see, for example, the initials or monograms of their owners on some of the muskets' stocks. There's only one drawback here, but it's a biggie: sadly, they don't allow photos to be taken in the Armory, so you won't be able to take any images home from the exhibit. It's a real shame, considering how nicely presented it is -- but at least you can go onto the museum's web portal, which has 360-degree panning photos of the two main rooms. Still, it's not the same thing as getting your own photos, but it'll have to do.
I'm an archaeologist myself, so I was very curious to see how they set up the Archaeology section of the museum. The Archaeology section covers a vast period of human prehistory in Western Bohemia, ranging from the Palaeolithic through the Iron Age. While there aren't any famous treasures in here, the objects on display are extremely well-preserved considering their age, and have been laid out with considerable care. Also, there are several videos and other displays which give detailed information about the ongoing experimental archaeology projects being done in this region, such as smelting bronze the old-fashioned way -- but like everything else in the Archaeology section, these are only in Czech. Even without the explanations, there's a lot to see and marvel at, but it's a real shame that the archaeology section has no explanations in English or German (which is quite noticeable because both the History section and the Armory do.)
Finally, the History section houses numerous informative displays which cover various aspects of life in Western Bohemia from the 11th-19th centuries AD. Although most of the exhibits focus on historical developments in Plzen itself -- not surprising, as it's the regional capital and the largest city -- there are also some displays which touch on, for instance, the lives of rural peasants during the 12th-13th centuries. As a result, a very nice cross-section of Western Bohemian history is presented in this section.
On the whole, I was very impressed by this museum. The curators have clearly put a great deal of time, effort, and thought into making the most of the materials they have to work with to tell the story of the region's past in an engaging way. The only real frowny-face I have to offer is the lack of English or German explanations in the Archaeology section; otherwise, I highly recommend this museum to anyone visiting Plzen who is even remotely interested in history, art, or archaeology!
Written April 11, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert S
Zagreb, Croatia336 contributions
Apr 2014 • Solo
This was one of most interesting museums I've visited outside of Prag, during my 2 month stay in Czech republic.
It is divided into 3 separate exhibitions.
First one is Plzen armory, which is definitely worth a visit. It has a very extensive collection of medieval and baroque warfare, from polearms, swords, armor to early cannons and guns. Walking among stacked shelfs will make you feel like an medieval general!
Archeology and History sections feature exhibits from as far as stone age, and up to the 19th century. Archeology sections doesnt have English explanation, but that doesnt represent some problem.
On the top floor, there is an temporary exhibition of Czech porcelain, situated in an stunning baroque ball room. Collection is very small, but quite unique.
It is recommended to take "deluxe" ticket for all 3 exhibitions, since it costs 3 euros per person, which is an very small amount of money for such an nice experience. Tour around the building can take up to 2 or 3 hours.
Museum is all days except for Monday, from 10-18h.
It is divided into 3 separate exhibitions.
First one is Plzen armory, which is definitely worth a visit. It has a very extensive collection of medieval and baroque warfare, from polearms, swords, armor to early cannons and guns. Walking among stacked shelfs will make you feel like an medieval general!
Archeology and History sections feature exhibits from as far as stone age, and up to the 19th century. Archeology sections doesnt have English explanation, but that doesnt represent some problem.
On the top floor, there is an temporary exhibition of Czech porcelain, situated in an stunning baroque ball room. Collection is very small, but quite unique.
It is recommended to take "deluxe" ticket for all 3 exhibitions, since it costs 3 euros per person, which is an very small amount of money for such an nice experience. Tour around the building can take up to 2 or 3 hours.
Museum is all days except for Monday, from 10-18h.
Written May 13, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
André P
Lisbon, Portugal719 contributions
Jun 2016 • Friends
As, by know, you should have noticed, it is impossible not to be amazed with the architecture of almost every building in Pilsen. This one is no exception!
Inside and outside you will be amazed by its architectural details and some marvels that you will not be expecting!
The material in exposition is quite specific and represents a general idea of specific themes, the ones that are intended to be explored inside this building! Yes, it is true that here and there some non-only-Czech explanations would be appreciated, but honestly, it is not that difficult to either understand the general description if you know any other language besides English, French and so on (if you grasp a little Polish it seems to do the trick quite well) or to understand what is being presented to you, and some concepts are general to all languages!
That being said, the cherry on the top of the building was the reason for my visit here: their porcelain exposition!!
I truly felt palpitations when arriving to the third floor room, a pearl of architecture! The main room is amazing, and its contents, although not very plentiful, were enough to make jump like crazy from one piece to the other!
I have some photos for you! You should check them out! The main piece, the Man mounting a Horse, by Meissen, wasn’t there, it seems it was being restored, but never the less, the other pieces and the room itself are well worth the visit of this Museum!
Inside and outside you will be amazed by its architectural details and some marvels that you will not be expecting!
The material in exposition is quite specific and represents a general idea of specific themes, the ones that are intended to be explored inside this building! Yes, it is true that here and there some non-only-Czech explanations would be appreciated, but honestly, it is not that difficult to either understand the general description if you know any other language besides English, French and so on (if you grasp a little Polish it seems to do the trick quite well) or to understand what is being presented to you, and some concepts are general to all languages!
That being said, the cherry on the top of the building was the reason for my visit here: their porcelain exposition!!
I truly felt palpitations when arriving to the third floor room, a pearl of architecture! The main room is amazing, and its contents, although not very plentiful, were enough to make jump like crazy from one piece to the other!
I have some photos for you! You should check them out! The main piece, the Man mounting a Horse, by Meissen, wasn’t there, it seems it was being restored, but never the less, the other pieces and the room itself are well worth the visit of this Museum!
Written July 4, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Core Logic
Perth, Australia346 contributions
Apr 2016
This magnificent, historical building was built in 1878. It has one of the widest ranges of historical, industrial art and natural science collections in the Czech Republic. Not only is it a magnificent building during the day, but you can also admire its architecture after dark, when the light coloured parts of the building are lit up, and the dark roof is almost invisible against the night sky. I never cease to be amazed by this building, despite seeing it on a daily basis.
Written April 26, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cyclecrazy
South East England, UK410 contributions
Sep 2013
This was interesting, especially the history and archaeology, the latter having quite an original take on things as it was showing how different tools were actually made- except that there was no English explanation! I am sure that not that many visitors understand Czech!
Written September 8, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Momchil D
16 contributions
Apr 2017 • Family
It was difficult to order tickets. Nobody speaks english and credit cards are not accepted, only cache.
We were there to see the armory collection, but it was not so impressive. My personal opinion - try with any other museum.
We were there to see the armory collection, but it was not so impressive. My personal opinion - try with any other museum.
Written April 17, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Schadla-Hall T
London, UK166 contributions
Apr 2015 • Business
The museum has a stunning range of displays- including the armoury - but the Prehistoric Archaeology galleries are knock out- the material on display is outstanding especially if you want to understand central european prehistory. Apart from the artefacts-which are beautifully displayed- there are several good videos of aspects of experimental archaeolgy, and models too - of sites and burials and dress and hill forts etc.- a real attempt to humanise the deep past. I was given a basic english guide- which was helpful - shame there are only Czech labels- and the route round the displays is easy once you have figured it out! I could complain in detail about some aspects of the displays but they are so good - it would be unfair
In the History gallery- which explains the appearance and development of Pilsen - there are labels in English and also attempts to make the past accessible- and well worth taking time with this- again a very good Video using VR well- but found the route hard to work out- and the graphicsare over designed- dark red lettering on red background is not easy to cope with! But do not miss it. In both cases do go to learm!
A word about the shop- it is delightful but nothing is on open display - the staff are charming- but its difficult to buy anything- even catalogues!! They have the potential to really sell- it should be redseigned!
In the History gallery- which explains the appearance and development of Pilsen - there are labels in English and also attempts to make the past accessible- and well worth taking time with this- again a very good Video using VR well- but found the route hard to work out- and the graphicsare over designed- dark red lettering on red background is not easy to cope with! But do not miss it. In both cases do go to learm!
A word about the shop- it is delightful but nothing is on open display - the staff are charming- but its difficult to buy anything- even catalogues!! They have the potential to really sell- it should be redseigned!
Written April 11, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RotherhitheTraveller
London, UK47 contributions
Oct 2014 • Friends
The armory section of the museum is really worth visiting - particular highlights include a large collection of hand-cannon, blunderbuss, fire-locks and other medieval firearms, along with a decent selection of pole-arms. It is a great exhibition, however the employees were extremely grumpy and unpleasant. This was a surprise to us, especially given we were virtually the only visitors. Maybe this was why. Possibly they wanted us to leave so they could get back to sitting and staring vacantly at the wall as they appeared to be doing when we entered...
Written October 10, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bartleycrc
Rapid City, SD1,340 contributions
Nov 2019 • Friends
The Western Bohemian Regional Museum has beautifully glass and porcelain displays. We only did 1 of the 3 collections but was so impressed. We expected only to see items from this region, but they had a collection from around the world.
Written November 15, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
VinDivan
Luxembourg198 contributions
Oct 2019
A thoroughly enjoyable collection of Czech glass and ceramics in a beautifully restored building. There is much to see for a one floor exhibit, although too much about old locks and keys perhaps. Along with Czech arts there are German Meissen and French Sevres porcelain pieces… and some ancient Greek, Italian, and Asian wares. I spent more time here than any other museum in Pilsen. Note that the Museum of West Bohemia is several distinct collections in the same location, of which Applied Arts and Crafts (umělecké řemeslo) is just one. It occupies the third floor of the building and the ticket was 80 Czech Koruna when I visited.
Written October 22, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No questions have been asked about this experience
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing