For 75 years, the Göcseji Museum has preserved and presented the rich history of Zalaegerszeg and Zala County. Archaeological finds, ethnographic objects, local history collections, and works of fine art tell the story of how the people of this region lived, worked, and created throughout the centuries.
Between 2018 and 2022, the museum underwent a major renovation. Its renewed exhibition spaces, modern installations, and interactive displays now provide visitors with a contemporary environment for exploration, where the meeting of tradition and the present creates a truly unique museum experience.
Permanent Exhibitions
The permanent exhibitions of the Göcseji Museum present the diverse history of Zalaegerszeg and Zala County. The The Life of Our Ancestors: An Urban History Exhibition takes visitors on a journey from the world of the medieval castle to the 20th century. The Ceramics of János Németh and the The Memorial Exhibition of Zsigmond Kisfaludi Strobl offer insight into different fields of art. Watch enthusiasts can discover the fascinating world of 18th-20th century timepieces through József Preisz’s collection of several hundred clocks and watches. The Art of György Fekete showcases the values of interior design and applied arts, while the Memorial to the Victims of Communism preserves the poignant memory of the 20th-century dictatorship.
Research
Our staff conduct archaeological, ethnographic, and local history research with a particular focus on Zala County. Through excavations, fieldwork, and scholarly research, they contribute new knowledge to the understanding of the region’s past.
The museum regularly publishes its findings in books, conference proceedings, and academic volumes, while also collaborating with Hungarian and international partners in the exploration and preservation of cultural heritage.
Community Museum
The Göcseji Museum is not only a guardian of the past but also a meeting place for today’s communities. Through a wide range of programmes – including lectures, guided tours, concerts, and themed events – it plays an active role in the cultural life of Zalaegerszeg.
Museum Education
The Göcseji Museum places special emphasis on experience-based learning. Our educational programmes allow children and young people to explore historical objects, stories, and traditions through engaging, hands-on activities. From the world of archaeological excavations and traditional folk crafts to the events of the 20th century, we offer a wide variety of topics that complement and deepen classroom learning.
Our programmes provide memorable experiences not only for school groups but also for families. Craft workshops, interactive demonstrations, and themed museum days make every visit both educational and enjoyable.
