Plenty of bizarre decorations, a gallery in a bus, and even a toilet inside an old chapel—can you imagine all of this in one place? Welcome to Skalákův Mlýn, a cultural park for misfits! Located in Meziříčko, Czech Republic, this unique site is well-known for hosting underground music and poetry festivals.
The idea of establishing an alternative cultural center in Czechoslovakia first emerged in the 1970s. However, the repressive political climate of the era, particularly the Communist crackdown on dissidents associated with Charter 77, forced the project to be shelved for over a decade. It wasn’t until 1989, following the collapse of the regime, that former dissidents like Miroslav Skalický, František Stárek, Jiří Kostúr, and Ivan Martin Jirous could finally express themselves freely. Seizing this newfound freedom, Skalický managed to acquire the premises of the former Brázda Mill—an old watermill without a functioning motor and transformed the space into a fortress-like hub for creative and cultural activities.
What makes Skalákův Mlýn truly extraordinary are its quirky decorations: vividly painted cars, a gallery housed in a bus, and countless curious installations scattered across the grounds. Some elements, like the toilet installed in an old chapel, spark controversy, but they add to the site’s eclectic charm. Every corner is filled with strange sculptures, bold slogans, and peculiar treasures that invite exploration for hours.
Check out some highlights from a virtual tour of this fascinating cultural park below!
