Museum of Architecture and Design

About

The Museum of Architecture and Design (MAO) in Ljubljana is Slovenia’s central institution for architecture, design, and visual culture. Located in the Renaissance-era Fužine Castle, MAO presents a dynamic program of exhibitions, workshops, and international collaborations that explore the intersection of heritage and innovation. It hosts the Biennial of Design (BIO), one of the oldest design biennials in the world, and manages the legacy of renowned architect Jože Plečnik through the Plečnik Collection. MAO’s exhibitions range from modernist icons to speculative design futures, making it a hub for critical thinking and creative exchange in the built environment.

Ljubljana Slovenia

Location

The Museum of Architecture and Design (MAO) in Ljubljana is located at Fužine Castle, Rusjanov trg 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. This historic Renaissance castle, the only one still preserved in Ljubljana, houses the central national museum dedicated to architecture, urbanism, industrial and graphic design, and photography. The museum is renowned for its extensive collections showcasing Slovenian architectural and design heritage, alongside dynamic exhibitions and events including the longstanding Biennial of Design. The Fužine Castle sits in the Fužine area by the Ljubljanica river, giving visitors a unique blend of heritage and contemporary cultural engagement. The museum is a bit outside the very center but accessible by public transport routes such as bus line 20. Nearby, visitors can explore the peaceful natural surroundings of the Fužine neighborhood, including riverside walkways and parks, as well as other cultural venues in Ljubljana's broader urban area. The site serves as a vibrant hub merging history, architecture, and design for locals and tourists alike.