Dunajec 3 Regions
Lesnica - Łącko - Szczawnica

The Michal Strenk Military Exhibition was established in 2017 and is located just below the castle in Stará Ľubovňa. The exhibition focuses mainly on the period of World War II and is complemented by Czechoslovak military technology from the Cold War era as well as modern equipment of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic. Military enthusiasts have the opportunity to see fully restored military vehicles and equipment.

Goals and Exhibits of the Outdoor Military Exhibition

This is not just a "dry" presentation of weapons and facts. The aim of the exhibition is to evoke an emotional response and provide a deeper understanding of the tragedy of war. Visitors have the unique opportunity to walk through a trench more than 100 meters long, explore underground bunkers and artillery batteries. The exhibition features both land and air vehicles, while the weapons pavilion presents firearms mainly from World War II and post-war examples arranged by country of origin. The entire experience is enhanced with audiovisual effects.

Michal Strenka - a Slovak-American hero

One of the most important elements of the exhibition is the monumental statue of Michal Strenk – the patron of the exhibition. He was a soldier from the area of Stará Ľubovňa who died at the age of just 22 and became known as one of the men raising the American flag at Iwo Jima. His story allows visitors to see the war through the eyes of a single young man – not as a distant historical event, but as a real-life tragedy, stirring strong emotions in the viewer.

An Exhibition as a warning

The exhibition is not intended to glorify war on the contrary, it focuses on showing the suffering that every armed conflict brings. It presents the tragedy of civilians, soldiers, and families affected by the harsh realities of war. The creators of the exhibition strive to foster an empathetic approach, especially among younger visitors. In this way, they can better understand the true value of peace and the serious consequences of violence. This timeless and universal message forms one of the cornerstones of the entire exhibition.

Symbolism and memory

The symbolism present in the exhibition plays a key role in creating an atmosphere of remembrance and respect. Memorial plaques, personal belongings, the names of the fallen, and the stories of their lives form a space filled with silence and contemplation. Visitors have the chance to pause for a moment of reflection, to feel sorrow, thoughtfulness, and deep respect for those who gave their lives during the war. It is precisely this emotional impact, born from encountering personal stories, that stands as one of the main goals of this carefully designed exhibition.

Passion and message

This is one of the few places in Europe that uniquely combines military precision with a humanistic message. The exhibition ranks among the largest of its kind in Poland and Slovakia, and its creation is the result of many years of passion and dedication by Branislav and Katarína Ilkovič. It was not established out of official duty but out of a true love for history. It attracts visitors not only with the richness of its exhibits but also with its coherent, well-thought-out narrative. It is a place that encourages both individual reflection and family visits.