The Dolná Brána underground archaeological museum has become one of the most visited attractions in Košice's historic centre. (source: The City of Košice)
The Dolná Brána underground archaeological museum in Košice has reopened to the public after its winter break, according to Korzár. Located beneath Hlavná Street in the city centre, it invites visitors to explore the medieval fortification system through interactive exhibits.
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“This unique site offers an engaging glimpse into Košice’s past,” said Martin Dani, director of K13, the organisation overseeing 13 cultural centres in the city.
Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, the museum showcases parts of the city’s former sewer system, mediaeval defences, and artefacts from St Elizabeth’s Cathedral. Since opening in 1998, it has become one of Košice’s top attractions. Last year, over 50,000 people visited—twice as many as the East Slovak Museum.
Restoration set for 2026
Dolná Brána has been listed in the Central Register of the National Cultural Heritage Fund since 2010.
In 2024, the city refurbished the museum’s entrance platform, granite paving, and flowerpots at a cost of €49,438. Košice has also secured a building permit for a €2.7 million project aimed at preventing water infiltration and restoring the site’s stone and concrete structures.
“The works will include insulation, stabilisation, and improved drainage,” said Mayor Jaroslav Polaček. Upgrades to skylights, stairs, and surrounding greenery are also planned.
According to Richard Dlhý of Košice City Hall, the city will apply for EU funding this year, with restoration potentially starting in 2026.
The museum last underwent a major renovation in 2021. A year earlier, a €180,000 grant from Hungary helped launch a new multimedia exhibition featuring 3D models and interactive displays.
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