Petőfi Literary Museum

The Petőfi Literary Museum (PIM) in Budapest is a culturally significant institution dedicated to the memory and promotion of Hungarian literature. Founded in 1954 as the successor of the Petőfi House, the museum is named after the Hungarian national poet Sándor Petőfi, a central figure in the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and a symbol of the movement for independence from Habsburg rule. Housed in the majestic Károlyi Palace, a neoclassical building constructed in the 19th century that quickly became a center of literary life in Pest, the museum offers visitors a historical atmosphere that enriches the museum experience. The museum’s extensive collection includes literary documents, manuscripts, artworks, and personal belongings of important Hungarian writers, spanning a wide range of literary works from classical poetry and prose to contemporary works. In addition to its permanent collections, the museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions exploring various aspects of Hungarian literature and culture. These exhibitions provide a platform to showcase lesser-known authors and specific literary themes, creating a continuous dialogue between past and present. The museum also plays a significant role in literary preservation and research, collaborating with cultural institutions and participating in international networks of literary museums. Located in the heart of Budapest’s district V, the Petőfi Literary Museum is easily accessible and an integral part of the city’s cultural circuit. The palace gardens, open to the public, offer a peaceful oasis where visitors can relax and reflect after exploring the exhibitions.