In an industrial hall more than 115 years old, the Škoda Museum will open a new exhibition space for historic vehicles in early December 2025. The 23 exhibits, largely in their authentic discovery condition, lend the display a particularly atmospheric character.
In an industrial hall first put into operation as a forge in 1907, the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav will open a new exhibition area for historic vehicles from 1 December 2025. The 23 displayed automobiles are mostly in what is known as their “discovery condition” – just as they were found after decades in barns, workshops or remote corners, before eventually entering the museum’s collection.
“As part of the 130th anniversary of the Škoda brand, we are opening new, particularly atmospheric spaces for our visitors. More than twenty historic vehicles lead back to the beginnings of automobile production in Mladá Boleslav. Their authentic condition gives the exhibition a unique aura and patina,” explains Andrea Frydlová, Head of the Škoda Museum.
Historic setting as part of the exhibition concept
The fact that the display is housed in a hall that has itself played a part in automotive history enhances the special character of the new depot area. The factory, now known as “Hall V4”, was built in 1906 and used as a forge from 1907 onwards – at a time when Laurin & Klement were expanding and modernising production. Alongside traditional forges and anvils, a huge steam hammer was also in operation here, used to mass-produce large metal components.
Sleeping treasures: vehicles awaiting restoration
The new display presents 23 historic automobiles, some in their original condition, others after initial conservation work. The presentation follows a museum “garage style”, which highlights the vehicles’ originality and suits the hall’s raw, industrial character extremely well. Each exhibit is accompanied by a short description; further information can be accessed via QR codes. As in the museum’s main exhibition, a certain rotation of vehicles is planned for the new depot.
The approximately 30-minute guided tour is available only with a museum guide and must be booked in advance. Access is free of charge until the end of the year; afterwards, a surcharge of 100 crowns will be added to the museum ticket. The opening of the depot forms part of a broader plan to make the museum even more accessible to the public and to automotive enthusiasts. The next step will follow in 2026: a new exhibition hall will be created to showcase prototypes, design studies and concept vehicles from the early 1950s to the present day.
A visit to the Škoda Museum can be combined with a visit to the Ferdinand Porsche Birthplace in Liberec-Vratislavice, for which a discounted combined ticket is available. The birthplace is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On other days, visits can be arranged in advance with the visitor service of the Škoda Museum.
Škoda Museum | Mladá Boleslav
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