Museum of Romani Culture, Brno

The Museum of Romani Culture, located in Brno, is a significant institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the history, culture, and contributions of the Romani people. Established in 1991, the museum was founded by members of the Czech Romani intelligentsia, led by Jana Horváthová, during the period of newfound freedom following the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia.

The museum's permanent exhibition offers a comprehensive overview of Romani life, culture, and history, tracing their migration from India to the present day. A particular focus is placed on the experiences of Romanis in Czech lands from 1945 to 1989. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum periodically hosts temporary exhibitions, primarily featuring art and photography that further explore aspects of Romani life and culture.

Beyond its role as an exhibition space, the Museum of Romani Culture is a hub for research on Romani issues in Central Europe. It houses a public library with over 3,000 publications, including books, magazines, CDs, and important research papers, providing a valuable resource for students, scholars, and the general public. The museum also organizes various cultural and educational activities, such as lectures, concerts, panel debates, and Romani language courses, further contributing to the dissemination of Romani culture and knowledge.

In September 2020, the museum expanded its reach by introducing the Roma and Sinti Center in Prague, the first specialized center of its kind in the capital. Located in a historical villa designed by architects Arnošt (Ernst) Mühlstein and Victor Fürpro in 1937, the center serves as an educational and exhibition space, as well as an information and community hub.

The Museum of Romani Culture in Brno, along with its new center in Prague, continues to play a crucial role in preserving and celebrating Romani heritage, providing a platform for cultural exchange, research, and community engagement.