Regional Gallery in Prešov It is one of the city’s most important cultural institutions and also one of the oldest regional galleries in Slovakia. It was founded in 1956 and, over the course of its existence, has built up an extensive collection of fine art, spanning from the 15th century to the present day. The gallery places a strong emphasis on the art and artists of eastern Slovakia.
A visit here is of interest not only to art lovers. The gallery is housed in historic townhouses right in the centre Prešov, so you can easily combine your visit with a stroll down Hlavná Street and explore the town’s other sights.
A collection comprising more than 4,500 works of art
The collection of the Prešov Regional Gallery comprises more than 4,500 pieces painting, sculpture, drawing and printmaking. The collection includes works dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries, as well as works by contemporary artists and pieces reflecting new media. A significant proportion of the collection consists of works linked to the region of eastern Slovakia.
Among the most valuable items in the collections are, for example, historical icons from the 16th to 18th centuries, portraiture from the 18th and 19th centuries, and works by artists active in Prešov and the surrounding area. The works of Ján Rombauer and other artists who significantly influenced the region’s art scene hold a special place in the collection.
Sacred art from the 15th to the 19th century
One of the gallery’s permanent exhibitions is Sacred art of the 15th - 19th centuries. It introduces visitors to visual art linked to the religious life and culture of the region. The exhibition is housed in a historic building at Hlavná 49, which was restored between 2015 and 2020.
Sacred art, in particular, offers an interesting insight into the history of eastern Slovakia. Historical paintings, icons and other works document the development of artistic expression, religious motifs and the level of craftsmanship in each period.
Historic buildings in the centre of Prešov
The Regional Gallery in Prešov is also notable for its architectural setting. Since 1981, it has been housed in listed town houses within the town’s conservation area. The historic buildings have been gradually adapted for use as a gallery and today provide a unique setting for the presentation of fine art.
The combination of historic architecture and a contemporary exhibition programme makes the gallery an interesting stop on a tour of Prešov. During a single visit, visitors can discover both older works of art and the latest creations by local and international artists.
Exhibitions, events and visitor programme
The gallery is not just a venue for permanent collections. Throughout the year, it organises temporary exhibitions, lectures, talks, gallery interventions and educational activities for different age groups. The programme changes regularly, so it’s worth checking the current programme before you visit.
As well as exhibitions, the current programme also includes projects focusing on contemporary art and more experimental forms of presentation. The gallery thus bridges the gap between historical heritage and the contemporary art scene, creating a space where artists of different generations can come together.
A tip for visiting Prešov
Regional Gallery in Prešov It is the perfect place for anyone wishing to discover Slovak visual art, regional history and fascinating historic architecture whilst visiting the city. Thanks to its location right on Hlavná Street, it is easily accessible and can form part of a tour of Prešov’s historic centre.
If you’re looking for museums and galleries in Prešov, … which offer a combination of historical collections, contemporary art and a regularly changing programme, the Regional Gallery is one of the places well worth including in your itinerary.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: krajskagaleria.sk
Map
Gallery
Information
The Prešov Regional Gallery is located at 51 Hlavná Street, right in the historic city centre. Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot and by public transport. The nearest bus stop, „Na Hlavnej“, is just a few minutes’ walk away; if you’re visiting by car, you can park on Jarková or Weberová Street.
The gallery is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10.00 to 18.00 and on Sundays from 14.00 to 18.00. It is closed on Mondays and Saturdays. Standard admission for adults is €5, and discounted and family tickets are also available. Children under 6 years of age have free entry to the exhibitions.
It is interesting to note that the gallery does not function solely as an exhibition space. It also organises educational and accompanying activities, making a visit an engaging experience for families with children or school groups. At the same time, the historic premises provide an unconventional backdrop for modern exhibitions.
When planning a visit, it is worth checking the current programme, as the individual exhibitions change throughout the year. This means that the gallery can offer a completely different experience on a return visit.
