Literárne a hudobné múzeum

About the museum

The Literary and Music Museum in Banská Bystrica was founded in 1969 and, given its focus, is one of the rare museums of its kind in Slovakia and in Europe. It documents the literary and musical culture of the Banská Bystrica region, which is associated with personalities such as the polymath Matej Bel, the Baroque composer Ján Francisci and the instrument maker Michal Búľovský.

The collections include rare prints, posters, archival documents, photographs, literary and musical manuscripts, works of fine art, theatre collections, classical and folk musical instruments, and memorabilia. The museum is part of the Štátna vedecká knižnica in Banská Bystrica and presents its collections in the exhibitions “Múzeum – domov múz” (Museum – Home of the Muses), “Bábkarský salón” (Puppetry Salon) and “Ľudové hudobné nástroje na Slovensku” (Folk Musical Instruments in Slovakia), as well as in the Jozef Gregor Tajovský Memorial House in Tajov.

Highlights

• “Múzeum – domov múz” exhibition with a music, literature and theatre salon
• Puppetry Salon where visitors can try operating puppets
• “Ľudové hudobné nástroje na Slovensku” exhibition with around 250 instruments
• Jozef Gregor Tajovský Memorial House in Tajov

Permanent exhibitions

• Múzeum – domov múz – Music, literature and theatre salon with significant musicians and writers of the town and region.
• Bábkarský salón – Puppetry traditions in Slovakia, the Stražanovci and Anderlovci families, the Rázcestie puppet theatre and puppet makers.
• Ľudové hudobné nástroje na Slovensku – Around 250 folk musical instruments made by 60 makers – signal instruments, pipes, heligonkas and string instruments.

Founded

1969

Operated by

Štátna vedecká knižnica v Banskej Bystrici (príspevková organizácia Ministerstva kultúry SR)

Admission & discounts

The price list applies from 1 July 2026. Free admission is also granted to holders of an ICOM card, employees of museums and galleries in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, journalists, tour guides with a group, teachers with a school class, and holders of the Ján Kňazovický Medal and of the Diamond and Gold Janský Plaques (on presentation of a blood donor card and an identity document).

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations

In the Puppetry Salon, visitors can try operating puppets and perform a puppet fairy tale.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit