Museum of Madness

About

The Museum of Madness operates in the medieval Cmurek castle, which dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the 5 oldest castles in Slovenia. It is located right next to the Austrian border, on the edge of the Slovenske gorice. The mighty river Mura flows under the castle. Cmurek Castle has a rich history, but in Slovenia, it is most known for the last period (1949 - 2004) when the State Asylum for the Mentally and Neurologically Ill Hrastovec–Trate operated in the castle. People with disabilities from all over Slovenia were placed there, the institution was closed in 2004 and people were moved to the community. Since 2013, the castle has been home to a museum whose provocative name raises awareness about the difficult lives of people placed in total institutions and the experiences of the staff. Visitors can see the authentic rooms of the former institution, hear people's testimonies, and get an insight into the functioning of total institutions. It is a unique museum.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes