Muzej za arhitekturo in oblikovanje

About the museum

The museum was founded in 1972 as the Architecture Museum Ljubljana and is today one of the oldest museums of architecture and design in Europe. The foundation of its library collection was Plečnik's library, which was gradually complemented by the bequests and gifts of architects and photographers.

MAO is the national museum that keeps, researches and presents the most comprehensive collection of Slovenian architectural and design heritage. Through exhibitions, projects and events it addresses the past, present and possible futures of both fields, while also functioning as a platform for contemporary creators. Together with the Center za kreativnost (Centre for Creativity) it also organises the BIO design biennial.

The museum is seated in Fužine Castle by the Ljubljanica, the only preserved Renaissance castle in Ljubljana. The castle was built in the mid-16th century by members of the Khisl family, and in 1897 a hydroelectric plant was added to it for the needs of the Vevče paper mill, which is still in operation. It was declared a cultural monument in 1984, and since 1990 the museum has been housed in it.

Highlights

• Largest collection of Slovenian architecture and design
• The only preserved Renaissance castle in Ljubljana
• Hydroelectric plant from 1897 beside the castle
• Specialist library with around 13000 units of monographic material
• MAO café with a courtyard under the castle linden tree

Founded

1972

Admission & discounts

Free admission: The first Sunday of every month, on International Museum Day and on the summer museum night.

Free admission also for the unemployed, journalists, members of professional associations and holders of the ICOM card. For accompanying persons and vulnerable groups in groups, admission is free.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations
• Kids’ birthday parties

Sundays at MAO (twice a month) combine a guided tour of the exhibition for parents with creative workshops for children; the MiniMAO play area is occasionally opened. Birthday parties can also be organised at the museum (€100–140 depending on the number of children), and a family ticket is available.

Getting there & parking

From the centre of Ljubljana a cycle and walking path leads to the museum along the Ljubljanica.

Amenities & dining

• Café

MAO café, run by the Srednja šola za gastronomijo in turizem Ljubljana (Ljubljana Secondary School of Gastronomy and Tourism); in warm weather it also operates in the museum courtyard. Café telephone: +386 30 337 730.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit