The Regional Museum in Jílové u Prague

Jílové u Prahy is closely tied to gold, with its mines once providing gold for the royal crown. While the mines now echo with bat wings rather than pickaxes, the town’s rich history still shines through. At the local museum, the golden past takes center stage, but don’t miss the intriguing stories of the house’s former owner, magister Kelly. The museum also offers exhibits on Czech camping traditions, the natural beauty of Lower Posázaví, and the “Ora et labora” archaeological collection.

The museum, part of the Central Bohemian Region, has been a fixture since the late 19th century when Leopold Čihák began collecting artifacts. Today, the gold exhibit is enhanced with augmented reality, allowing you to hold a gold ingot and be mesmerized by the glowing minerals that conclude the experience.

• Did you know: The house was once owned by Edward Kelly, a famous charlatan, necromancer, and magician who gained favor at Emperor Rudolf II’s court, known for his interest in the supernatural. Kelly later bought several houses in Jílové u Prahy and tried to create gold. Legend has it that beneath the museum lies a deep well where he unsuccessfully searched for his golden dreams. There are even tales that his ghost still haunts the building, scaring visitors.

Jílové, famous for its gold, is also the gateway to Lower Posázaví, the birthplace of Czech tramp culture. The museum has embraced this local phenomenon, adding exhibits dedicated to it. Relax on a cabin-style veranda while listening to classic tramp tunes. Children can virtually pack a backpack or cook goulash. And for those with more energy, explore the “Ora et labora” archaeological exhibit in the cellar.

What’s next?

Take a deep dive into one of the three Jílové mines, which are part of the local museum. In the St. Anthony of Padua mine, you can walk with a miner’s lamp, while the Hálířská mine stands out with its unique diamond-shaped profile. The most mysterious is the St. Joseph mine, whose true size remains unknown to this day. While in the Posázaví region, don’t miss a visit to the Aquapalace Prague or the UNESCO-listed Průhonice Park.