Greater coat of arms of Czechoslovakia (1918–1938)
Greater coat of arms of Czechoslovakia (1918–1938)

Mission

To support cultural exchange, education and international cooperation through educational, research and public initiatives.

Values

Respect for history, dialogue between cultures, academic integrity, civic responsibility and the development of ties between nations.

Areas of work

Exhibitions, lectures, research, cultural programmes, international meetings and support for the organization’s branches abroad.

The Journey of a Legacy

  1. 1850

    Birth of T. G. Masaryk

    Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk is born in Hodonín, the son of a coachman and a cook — the future philosopher, teacher and statesman.

  2. 1918

    Founding of Czechoslovakia

    After years of resistance abroad, independent Czechoslovakia is established and Masaryk becomes its first president.

    T. G. Masaryk signing the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia, October 1918
    T. G. Masaryk signing the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia, October 1918
  3. 1937

    Farewell to the President

    In September 1937 the nation bids farewell to its President-Liberator; his legacy remains a moral compass for society.

  4. 1989

    The Legacy Returns

    The Velvet Revolution brings Masaryk's ideals of democracy and humanism back into public life.

    Václav Havel and Alexander Dubček, Laterna Magika, 24 November 1989
    Václav Havel and Alexander Dubček, Laterna Magika, 24 November 1989
  5. Today

    An International Centre

    The Masaryk International Cultural and Educational Centre continues the work of the Masaryk Democratic Movement and develops Masaryk's legacy internationally.

Why Masaryk

Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk is a symbol of humanism, education, democratic values and responsibility to society. His legacy forms the basis for the Centre’s educational, cultural and international activities.

T. G. Masaryk, portrait by Otto Peters, 1931
T. G. Masaryk, portrait by Otto Peters, 1931