MNB Loans 101 Works of Art to Herman Ottó Museum, Miskolc

Miskolc, 7 April 2026 – *“The Magyar Nemzeti Bank’s new management strongly believes that the Bank should concentrate its resources on fulfilling its primary objectives as set forth by law, to the highest possible standard,” according to Governor Mihály Varga, speaking at the transfer of the MNB’s art collection in Miskolc. He emphasised that in line with this the decision was made to return art from the MNB’s collection to its natural environment, i.e. museums’ exhibition halls.***

Governor Varga recalled that the Magyar Nemzeti Bank owns a rather significant collection of 1,400 works of art, which was previously held in storage facilities, while some was displayed in the MNB’s offices or corridors. For this reason, the public had essentially not been able to access these works. He added that the collection included 101 pieces by 51 artists, which were to arrive to Miskolc in the coming days. The Governor noted that it was important for the MNB that these works of art be displayed in various parts of the country: accordingly, in the future the art would be accessible in person in 1 museum in Budapest and 29 museums outside of Budapest. As he had previously said, all parties involved benefitted from this solution: the museums, the public and the artists as well. Exhibiting this art could result in increased renown and acclaim for artists, while museums also stood to benefit from this initiative, thanks to rising visitor numbers. Governor Varga explained that ultimately the public may also benefit as well, as the loaned pieces help to promote culture both through their novelty and artistic value. The MNB has already loaned works of art to museums in Budapest, Debrecen, Székesfehérvár, Karcag and Veszprém.

Magyar Nemzeti Bank