Bohumil Hrabal’s Cottage to Open to the Public in May

Kersko, Czech Republic – The cottage of celebrated Czech writer Bohumil Hrabal will officially open to the public in May 2024, offering a glimpse into the life and work of the author of The Feast of the Snow Maidens and Closely Watched Trains. The opening follows a recent renovation project undertaken by the Central Bohemian Region.

A Preserved Legacy

The cottage, located in the village of Kersko, was purchased by the Central Bohemian Region in November 2021 for 9.9 million Czech crowns (approximately $430,000 USD at the time of purchase). The goal, according to regional councilor Václav Švenda (TOP 09), is to create an authentic experience for visitors, showcasing Hrabal’s life and creative environment. “We want the environment of the cottage to be as authentic as possible,” Švenda stated. “We also want to incorporate modern elements, such as augmented reality, to display what the interior looked like during Bohumil Hrabal’s lifetime.”

Restoration and Exhibits

The Polabské Museum is managing the cottage and has been actively seeking original furnishings and artifacts from the period when Hrabal lived there (1966-1996). Items already collected include a typewriter, barometer, onion-pattern porcelain, towels, a blanket, and tiny furniture pieces. The museum continues to seek items such as posters, bags, notebooks, paintings, a cream-colored kitchen set, a white dresser, and wallpaper used on the first-floor ceiling. Items with signs of wear and tear are preferred to maintain the cottage’s authentic feel.

Visiting Information

The cottage will initially be open on weekends from Friday to Sunday, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, throughout April and October. From May to September, it will be open every day except Mondays, also from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Due to limited space, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the Polabské Museum website. Tours will be limited to a maximum of seven visitors per group, with only three tours offered per day.

Hrabal’s Birthday Commemoration

A special commemoration of Hrabal’s birthday will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, marking 110 years since his birth.

A Cultural Landmark

Švenda emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the cottage, stating it is “a unique testimony to the life and work of a world-renowned writer.” The preservation of the cottage as a cultural monument will ensure its protection for future generations.