Unique Špania Dolina lace - one of the most beautiful in Slovakia

The Museum of Lace, making acquaints visitors with the unique Špania Dolina Lace, one of the most beautiful in all of Slovakia. The female generation of the inhabitants of Špania Dolina devoted themselves to the delicate art of drumming. The art of making beaded lace came to Špania Dolina together with German colonists who mined copper and silver in local mines. The museum contains over 200-year-old lace, as well as newer ones. The tradition of lace making has been passed down from generation to generation. This is how the women of Špania Dolina added a penny to their household budget. Under their skilful hands, beautiful laces were created that decorated many clothes and the home of rich ladies from the city and the far world.

The production of Špania Dolina lace was also supported by Empress Mária Theresia, who wore them as exceptional decorations on her robes, as did later Empress Elizabeth (Sisi).

Špania Dolina lace was used to decorate caps, but also miners' men's clothing. During larger ceremonies, it was used to make dresses for dolls and also for brides. The lace was part of chemises and pillows for children in the cradle, as well as various decorative pillows and tablecloths. The lace museum is located in the building of the former mining guardhouse, which in the past was used to summon miners to the shaft and was also the seat of the mining inspector, the knocker. Currently, the Knocker Guest House is located in the building.