Egon Schiele fell for Český Krumlov in 1911, the town where his mother was born, and returned most years until his death in 1918. The Egon Schiele Art Centrum, on Široká Street in the Inner Town, celebrates that connection. The building was a town brewery from 1608 until the Second World War and was renovated in 1993, when the centre opened. It now offers around 4,000 square metres of exhibition space showing classic 20th-century art alongside contemporary Czech and international work, and part of the complex was converted into studios for visiting artists. A museum shop and a cafe serving Bohemian dishes sit on site. Recent programmes have included shows by contemporary and international artists, so exhibits change from year to year. Hours are generally mid-morning to early evening, but confirm the winter schedule before you visit, since closing days and seasonal changes apply.
Schiele in Krumlov
The painter lodged here, painted the town's roofs and bridges, and caused local scandal with his models, which led to him leaving. The centre is not a shrine so much as a gallery inspired by him, with Schiele's work shown in rotation and context from other modernists. Do not expect a large permanent collection of his famous drawings, which are mostly in Vienna, and go instead for the atmosphere of a converted brewery and a changing programme.
Getting the most from it
A typical visit is an hour or two, longer if you linger in the cafe. A guided product pairs entry to the centre and local artist studios with a wine tasting and cheese platter, a private experience for art lovers and small groups lasting around two hours. If you prefer to go alone, buy a ticket on the day, as the centre is rarely sold out. Look at the exhibition programme before going, as the contemporary shows can differ strongly in tone.
In winter this is one of the best rainy-day choices in the Old Town. It is a few minutes from the main square, on the way to the castle, and pairs well with the Inner Town walk. Photography rules vary by exhibition, so ask at the desk. The building has stairs and some uneven floors, but most areas are accessible, and the cafe is a warm place to rest.
What to expect
The experience
A large gallery in a converted town brewery with changing modern and contemporary exhibitions, a shop and a cafe.
Best time
A rainy or cold afternoon, or mid-morning before the town fills with day trippers.
How long
One to two hours, plus time in the cafe.
Tips
Check current exhibitions and winter hours before you go, and ask about photography rules at the desk.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art lovers and anyone who wants a warm indoor stop with Schiele's story attached.
- Families
- Older children with an interest in art will manage, but there is little interactive material for young ones.
- Couples
- A shared indoor hour followed by wine or coffee works well in any weather.
- Pair with
- The Old Town walk, a wine tasting and the castle.
- Time needed
- Allow around two hours.
Good questions
Does the centre show many works by Schiele?+
It shows his work and honours his Krumlov connection, but the programme rotates and his major drawings are mostly elsewhere. Go for the changing exhibitions and the building.
What was the building before?+
A town brewery from 1608 until the Second World War. It was renovated in 1993 and opened as the art centre.
Is there a cafe?+
Yes, a cafe serving Bohemian specialities, plus a museum shop, on the premises.
Is it open in winter?+
Generally yes, with mid-morning to early-evening hours, but closing days and seasonal changes apply, so confirm on the day.
Can I combine it with a tasting?+
Yes, a guided two-hour tour pairs entry to the centre and local artist studios with Czech and Moravian wines and a cheese platter.
