The historic Bosák Bank building v Prešov has become the venue for a new exhibition The Prešov Regional Museum, which explores the life and work of the prominent Slovak banker and entrepreneur Michal Bosák. The exhibition, which opened on 14 September 2026, links the story of this exceptional figure with the history of banking, Slovak emigration and the Šariš region.
Exhibition opening hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Friday: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
The Life of Michal Bosák
Michal Bosák came from the village of Okrúhle in eastern Slovakia. He left Slovakia at the age of sixteen and went on to make his life in the United States of America. Starting out as a miner, he gradually worked his way up to become a successful businessman and banker. He played a part in the establishment of several financial institutions and, through his work, had an impact on economic, social and cultural life.
Despite his success abroad, he never forgot his roots or his native region. He supported Slovak cultural organisations, took an interest in events in his homeland, and played an active role in the lives of Slovak emigrants in the United States of America. His activities and public engagement made him one of the leading figures of the Slovak diaspora in the first half of the 20th century.
The historic bank building in Prešov is also closely linked to Michal Bosák. It was built between 1923 and 1924 in the Art Nouveau style and remains one of the most striking landmarks in the town’s historic centre to this day. It is here that visitors can discover the banker’s personal story in an authentic setting that evokes his business career.
Exhibition at Bosákova banka
The exhibition explores Bosák’s life through thematic sections, historical documents and authentic artefacts. Visitors can explore the bank’s original premises and vaults, see an office furnished in the style of the period, and admire a portrait of Michal Bosák by the Prešov-based academic painter Július Török.
Objects linked to Bosák’s native region also form an important part of the exhibition. The original school desks from the village of Okrúhle are a reminder of the school he commissioned to be built, and bear witness to his connection to his homeland and his philanthropic work.
The topic of emigration
The exhibition also explores the broader theme of Slovak emigration. Period travel documents, written records, memorabilia and other exhibits illustrate the journey of Slovaks to the United States, as well as their cultural and social life across the Atlantic.
The new exhibition was created in collaboration between the Regional Museum in Prešov and Associate Professor Martin Javor. It comprises items from the museum’s collection and loaned exhibits which were previously on display at the Museum of Emigration from Slovakia to North America – Kasigarda.
A visit to Bosákova Bank offers a glimpse into history through its architecture, personal stories and authentic artefacts. The exhibition serves as a reminder that even someone from a small village can achieve success through courage, hard work and ability, whilst remaining connected to their roots.
Source: the Regional Museum in Prešov
Photo source: the Regional Museum in Prešov
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Discover the story of Michal Bosák in the historic Bosák Bank building in Prešov. The new exhibition at the Prešov Regional Museum explores the life of this prominent Slovak banker, entrepreneur and figure in the history of Slovak emigration.
Through authentic artefacts, period documents and historic venues, you will learn about his journey from Slovakia to the United States, his business ventures and his connection to his homeland.
The exhibition features the original bank premises and vaults, an office furnished in the period style, a portrait of Michal Bosák, and items documenting the lives of Slovak emigrants in America.
Where: Bosák Bank, Hlavná Street, Prešov
Open: Tuesday–Friday, 9.00 am–5.00 pm.
What to expect: the story of Michal Bosák, historic architecture, authentic artefacts and an insight into the history of Slovak emigration.
