Founder and Operator

The Bärnau-Tachov History Park was founded, and is operated by, the Via Carolina – Goldene Straße, e. V. (eingetragener Verein, or registered association). This association is oriented towards cultural exchanges between people in the Upper Palatinate district (Oberpfalz) of Bavaria and the Czech Republic. The association was founded in 2010 by a group of Bärnau locals already actively engaged in matters relating to the region and the promotion of international understanding. Such activities include organising medieval-themed festivities, theatre associations, and work within Bärnau’s town council.

The History Park also collaborates with the Czech-based Terra Tachovia association, which undertakes work to revive and celebrate the traditions surrounding the former historical “Golden Road” (Zlatá cesta, Goldene Straße) route between Prague and Nuremberg – one which passed directly through Bärnau. In addition to this, Via Carolina – Goldene Straße e.V. also undertakes collaboration with members of the scientific and academic community, for example the University of Bamberg, University of West Bohemia (ZČU), and the Faculty of Philosophy and Arts at Charles University (FF UK).

Via Carolina – Goldene Straße’s aim is to revive historical and cultural roots between the neighbouring regions of Bavaria and Bohemia, and thus contribute towards harmonious neighbourly relations. It also promotes a wider understanding between Germany and the Czech Republic. The old “Golden Road” route is serving as the basis for increased cross-border cultural cooperation, and the cultivation and consolidation of partnership contacts between the two countries.

The founders of the Bärnau-Tachov History Park conceived the museum as one which presents the history and cultural development of the region via the direct recreation of medieval life. The wider aim of this project is to raise awareness for people of all ages of the concept of living in a unified Europe.

Asides from financial support from the Free State of Bavaria and the European Union, the Bärnau-Tachov History Park also gratefully acknowledges the kind financial support of sponsors from the business community.