Historická budova Muzea východních Čech, Museum building in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic

The Historická budova Muzea východních Čech is an asymmetrical building in the style of individualist modernism, designed by Jan Kotěra and built from 1909 to 1912. Its ground plan follows a Latin cross, but the axes of the longitudinal and transverse naves are offset, so they do not intersect. The main entrance is in the shortened east arm, and the facade features glazed terracotta decoration and two female figures by Stanislav Sucharda.

Construction finished in 1912 on a site where military fortifications had protected the city until the late 1800s. The building replaced those defensive structures as the city shifted focus toward cultural institutions.

The building shows how the city valued knowledge and preservation in the early 1900s through its grand design and prominent location. The collections inside tell stories of the region through everyday objects and rare finds that shaped how people lived.

The main entrance is on Eliščino nábřeží street, easily reached from the city center on a paved area that is straightforward to navigate. Tours in multiple languages can be arranged in advance to get more from your visit.

Behind the walls are specialized storage rooms with controlled temperature and humidity that protect delicate fabrics and old papers from damage. These hidden spaces keep centuries-old items in perfect condition even though visitors never see them.