County House

A historic building in the heart of Trenčín, which has been given a new lease of life following extensive renovation. It is now open to the public and is becoming a new venue for culture, art, exhibitions and social events.

It was originally the town palace of the influential and wealthy Hungarian Ilešházi family. In 1734, the building became the seat of Trenčín County, which rebuilt it between 1760 and 1764 to give it its current stately appearance. The façade was adorned with Themis, the Greek goddess of justice, a symbol of justice and abundance, and to this day you can still see the large county coat of arms and a historical inscription commemorating the reign of Maria Theresa.

Following the dissolution of the county, the building became the seat of the Trenčín Museum in 1940. Generations of Trenčín residents knew it as a place where they could explore the region’s history, archaeology, nature and folk culture. The museum remained here until 2023, when the building was closed in preparation for extensive renovation.

This national cultural monument has undergone extensive renovation. The result is a space that combines the building’s historical character with the demands of the modern age. The renovation affected not only the interiors and façade, but also the technical infrastructure and utilities. During the restoration, it was also necessary to respect the building’s historical value and the many specific elements involved in working with a national cultural monument.

The restoration of the County House forms part of the transformations taking place in Trenčín in connection with its designation as European Capital of Culture 2026. The historic building is thus being given a new lease of life and, at the same time, a new reason to visit the centre of Trenčín.

A new space for culture

The County House is no longer just a historic building you pass by whilst strolling through the centre of Trenčín. Following its renovation, it is gradually being transformed into a vibrant cultural and social hub. Visitors can look forward to exhibition and gallery spaces, cultural events, community projects and programmes for schools. The building also features a courtyard, which provides a venue for concerts and other events.

You can currently visit an exhibition of contemporary art with a European dimension at the County House. The exhibition is open to the public free of charge. The County House aims to link Trenčín’s history with contemporary art and culture, whilst also becoming part of the city’s wider cultural infrastructure.

A place worth returning to

The programme at the County House will gradually evolve, with further exhibitions, cultural events and community activities being added. In September 2026, the current exhibition will be joined by The Thin Green Line, curated by Oto Hudec.

In the future, the County House could also become a venue for wedding ceremonies, formal receptions and other social events.