The Austerlitz 1805 Exhibition Brings Napoleon and the Battle That Changed Europe to Life
The permanent exhibition Slavkov and Europe during the Napoleonic Wars is now open to visitors at Slavkov – Austerlitz Castle. Located in the castle’s former stables, it presents one of the most significant events in European history—the Battle of Austerlitz—and its profound impact on the future of Europe through a modern and engaging visitor experience.
The exhibition is truly unique, combining cutting-edge technology with authentic historical artefacts. Its greatest highlights are the original personal belongings of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, generously loaned through the cooperation of the Fondation Napoléon. Visitors have the exceptional opportunity to see Napoleon’s personal sabre and his travelling necessaire (travel toiletry case), which he used before the Battle of Austerlitz. These extraordinary objects rank among the exhibition’s most valuable exhibits and offer a rare opportunity to come closer to one of history’s greatest military leaders.
The exhibition also features the original painting Meeting at the Burnt Mill, depicting one of the crucial meetings that took place shortly before the famous battle.
History is brought to life not only through authentic artefacts but also through innovative technology. A large-scale model of the Battle of Austerlitz forms the exhibition’s centrepiece, enhanced with lighting and audiovisual effects that clearly explain the course of the battle. Interactive elements and artificial intelligence further enrich the experience, allowing visitors to symbolically “speak” with Napoleon and learn more about his life, personality and military strategy.
The exhibition also explores the rich history of the town of Slavkov u Brna and its close connection with the Kaunitz family. Another highlight is an interactive model of Slavkov as it appeared in 1805, enabling visitors to compare the historic town with its present-day appearance.
The purpose of the exhibition is not to glorify Napoleon or warfare. Instead, it seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the historical events that shaped modern Europe, presenting the Napoleonic era through authentic artefacts, state-of-the-art technology and expert historical interpretation.
An Investment in History and the Future
The exhibition represents a major investment in the cultural heritage of Slavkov u Brna. The total cost of the project reached approximately CZK 45 million, with a substantial part financed by the European Union through the Brno Metropolitan Area cooperation programme.
The project was developed through close cooperation between the Town of Slavkov u Brna, the City of Brno and the South Moravian Region, which also assisted in arranging the transport of the unique artefacts from abroad.
Designed not only for tourists from the Czech Republic and abroad but also for schools, the exhibition provides a modern educational environment that helps younger generations discover history in an engaging and accessible way. At the same time, it contributes to the development of tourism and supports local businesses, including accommodation providers and restaurants.
Created by Leading Experts
The exhibition was developed by a team of historians led by Martin Rája from Slavkov – Austerlitz Castle. The architectural design was prepared by Atelier Štěpán, while the exhibition itself was produced by Capacity Expo, a company renowned for creating major museum exhibitions in the Czech Republic.
The result is a modern exhibition of European significance that offers visitors a truly exceptional experience and the rare opportunity to admire the original personal belongings of Emperor Napoleon at the very place where one of the most famous battles in world history took place.
Visitor Information
The exhibition is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last admission at 4:00 p.m.
Admission prices:
- Adults: CZK 250
- Reduced admission (children, students, seniors and holders of ZTP/P disability cards): CZK 180
- Discounted rates are available for school groups upon prior reservation.
The exhibition is open to both individual visitors and organised groups. Educational programmes for schools are also available.
The exhibition forms part of Slavkov – Austerlitz Castle, a cultural institution established by the Town of Slavkov u Brna.
