Muzejska zbirka IMV

About

Muzejska zbirka IMV in Novo Mesto is a lively tribute to Slovenia’s automotive heritage, preserving the story of IMV—one of the country’s most important vehicle manufacturers of the 20th century. Founded in 1954, IMV produced everything from touring caravans to delivery vans and later collaborated with global brands, shaping the industrial identity of Dolenjska. A particularly interesting fact is that IMV’s caravans became popular across Europe, turning Novo Mesto into an unexpected centre of caravan innovation. Inside, the museum presents a carefully restored collection of IMV vehicles, including early caravans, commercial vans, and prototypes that never reached mass production. Each model reveals a different chapter of Slovenian engineering, from simple utilitarian designs to more ambitious attempts at modern styling. Visitors can also explore technical drawings, factory tools, and archival photographs that show how IMV workers developed and tested new ideas.

Novo Mesto Slovenia

Location

Muzejska zbirka IMV is located in Novo Mesto, the main town of Slovenia’s Dolenjska region. The museum collection is situated in the former industrial area of Kandija, on the grounds of the historic IMV factory, which later became part of Revoz. This technical museum showcases the industrial heritage of Novo Mesto, focusing on the development of the local automotive industry. From the museum, Novo Mesto’s old town is just across the Krka River. A walk over the Kandija Bridge brings you to Glavni trg, the main square, surrounded by colorful historic buildings, cafes, and shops. Above the square, Kapitelj Hill is home to the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, known for its Gothic and baroque architecture and the Tintoretto altarpiece. The hilltop also offers views over the river and town. Riverside paths along the Krka are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nearby cultural sites include the Dolenjska Museum, which covers regional archaeology and history, Jakčev dom, an art gallery dedicated to painter Božidar Jakac, and the Franciscan Monastery with its baroque church. Just outside town, the rolling Dolenjska hills are filled with vineyards and traditional wine cottages called zidanice, where you can taste the local Cviček wine. A short drive takes you to Otočec Castle, set on a small island in the Krka River and surrounded by parkland.