Straw Hat Museum
The Straw Hat Museum in Crișeni is one of the most unique thematic collections in Székely Land, showcasing the values of local peasant culture, craftsmanship, and community identity through a simple yet versatile object – the straw hat. Located in a traditional village house in Crișeni, Harghita County, the museum aims to preserve, revitalise, and celebrate the history, techniques, and aesthetic world of this craft.
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The museum was founded in 2001 by Lajos Szőcs and has been expanding ever since – the collection now includes over 2,000 hats, ranging from the smallest doll hats to the Guinness World Record-holding giant hat with a 2-metre diameter. Among the exhibits, you’ll find not only local straw hats but also headwear from various countries in diverse styles, making the exhibition a kind of international hat travelogue.
The museum is not just an exhibition space but also a living craft workshop: visitors can learn about the process of making straw hats, including weaving and sewing techniques, and even try their hand at the craft. The venue frequently hosts craft workshops, themed days, and camps for children, families, and tourist groups.
What makes the museum special is that it was created as a personal initiative, driven by civic dedication, and it continues to operate as a local community project. The founders aim not only to showcase the craft but also to strengthen the identity of Crișeni, pass on community knowledge, and immerse visitors in the experience of Székely craftsmanship.
A visit to the Straw Hat Museum offers more than just an introduction to an object; it tells a story woven from sunlight, labour, tradition, and creativity – much like the hat itself. It starts with a single strand of straw but connects communities and cultures.
Target group
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Class trips
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Families with younger children
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Families with older children
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Multigenerational programs
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Friends
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Seniors
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Couples
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Sights, programs
Parking information
- Free outdoor parking available