The Roots of Puppetry in West Bohemia

Puppetry in this area began with traveling troupes in the 18th century. These performers moved between villages to share stories and news. They used hand-carved wooden figures to bring local legends to life. This region eventually became the birthplace of modern Czech puppet theater. It is a vital part of the Plzeň Region identity.

The most famous characters in the country were born right here in Plzeň. Spejbl and Hurvínek are household names for every Czech child. They represent the wit and humor of the local culture. You will see their influence throughout the city streets and galleries. Visiting these sites is one of the best attractions in Plzeň for any traveler.

If you are short on time, here are some quick picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: Puppet Museum Plzeň
• Best for families: Interactive workshops
• Best for history: Museum of West Bohemia
• Best free sight: Spejbl and Hurvínek Monument

10 Places to Experience the History of Puppetry in the Plzeň Region

The following locations offer the best insight into the local puppet culture. Each spot provides a unique look at how this art has evolved. From 200-year-old marionettes to modern performances, there is much to see. Make sure to check the Visit Plzeň website for current festival dates.

1. Name: Puppet Museum Plzeň Type: Museum Why go: This is the premier location to learn about the history of puppetry in the Plzeň region. It features three floors of exhibits and interactive stages. Best for: Families and history enthusiasts. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 2 hours. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: If you are visiting the Puppet Museum Plzeň for families, head to the top floor for the play area.
2. Name: Alfa Theatre (Divadlo Alfa) Type: Theatre Why go: It is a world-renowned professional puppet theater with a long history. They perform both traditional and modern plays. Best for: Seeing live performances. Where: Rokycanská Street. Time: 1.5 hours per show. Cost: 120-200 CZK. Getting there: Take trolleybus line 11 or 15. Tip: Check their schedule online as performances are often in the mornings or early evenings.
3. Name: Spejbl and Hurvínek Monument Type: Sight Why go: This bronze statue honors the city's most famous puppet duo. It is a perfect spot for a photo. Best for: Quick sightseeing and fans of the characters. Where: Šafařík Orchards (Šafaříkovy sady). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Look for the small details on the figures that show their unique personalities.
4. Name: The Skupa and Trnka Memorial Type: Sight Why go: This memorial honors Josef Skupa and Jiří Trnka, two giants of the puppet world. They both lived and worked in Plzeň. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Central Cemetery (Ústřední hřbitov). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram line 2 to the cemetery stop. Tip: The cemetery is also a peaceful place for a walk among historic graves.
5. Name: Puppet Workshop at the Museum Type: Experience Why go: You can try making your own simple puppet or learn how to move a marionette. It brings the history to life through action. Best for: Creative children. Where: Inside the Puppet Museum. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small extra fee on top of museum entry. Getting there: Same as Puppet Museum. Tip: Book workshops for kids at Plzeň Puppet Museum in advance during summer.
6. Name: Skupova Plzeň Festival Type: Experience Why go: This is the oldest professional puppet festival in the Czech Republic. It happens every two years and showcases the best regional talent. Best for: Cultural immersion. Where: Various venues across the city. Time: Full day. Cost: Varies by performance. Getting there: Central city locations. Tip: Plan your visit for June 2026 to catch the next major edition.
7. Name: Museum of West Bohemia (Puppet Collection) Type: Museum Why go: While a general museum, its ethnographic section holds very old regional puppets. It shows how the craft started in the 1800s. Best for: Serious history buffs. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 100 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the St. Bartholomew's Cathedral tower climb nearby.
8. Name: Jiří Trnka’s Garden Exhibition Type: Sight Why go: Jiří Trnka was a master of puppet films. This exhibition often features his beautiful set designs and figures. Best for: Fans of animation. Where: Gallery of West Bohemia. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 80-120 CZK. Getting there: Located in the city park ring. Tip: Watch some of Trnka's short films on YouTube before you visit.
9. Name: V Boudě Puppet Theatre Type: Theatre Why go: This is an amateur ensemble with a history dating back to the 1920s. They keep the traditional community spirit of puppetry alive. Best for: A local, non-touristy experience. Where: Macháčkova Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 60-100 CZK. Getting there: Tram line 2 to Skvrňany. Tip: Shows are usually on weekends and are very popular with local families.
10. Name: Marionety Plzeň Souvenir Shop Type: Experience Why go: You can buy high-quality, handcrafted marionettes to take home. It supports local craftsmen who follow old traditions. Best for: Gifts and collectors. Where: Near the Puppet Museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to browse; puppets range from 500 to 5000+ CZK. Getting there: Walk from Republic Square. Tip: Ask the shopkeeper about the wood used; most are made from lime wood.

Practical Tips for Visiting Puppet Sites in Plzeň

When planning your trip, remember that many puppet theaters follow a seasonal schedule. The main season for performances is from September to June. During the summer, you should focus on museums and outdoor monuments. Most museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your week carefully. You can easily see the main sights on foot within the city center.

Tickets for the Puppet Museum are affordable for families. You do not usually need to book museum tickets far in advance. However, theater performances at Alfa Theatre often sell out. It is best to check their website a few weeks before your arrival. Many shows are visual and easy to follow even if you do not speak Czech.

Consider buying a Plzeň Card if you stay for more than two days. This card offers discounts at several puppet-related attractions. It also includes free public transport, which is helpful for reaching the Alfa Theatre. The city is very safe and easy to navigate for families with small children.