Founded in 1951, Bela krajina Museum is based in the castle, situated in the old part of Metlika. The museum stores and presents the movable cultural heritage of Bela Krajina and comprises the main exhibition in Metlika plus the Kambic Gallery and two satellite cllections in Vinica and Semič.

The cultural history collection at Metlika presents the history of Bela Krajina from 1200 onwards, from the time the Kolpa became the border river between Carniola and Croatia. One interesting, though dark, period is that of the Turkish incursions in the 15th and 16th centuries. The lapidary collection contains many fascinating objects relating to Roman, medieval and modern history. The ethnological collection illustrates the way of life in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when Črnomelj and Metlika were major centres of crafts and trade. There is also a special viticulture collection in the castle cellar.

The museum also houses a rich collection of visual arts, emphasising work by artists from Bela Krajina. Bela Krajina Museum's exhibitions conclude with the collection of recent history that introduces the visitor to the major events in Bela Krajina in the first half of the 20th century.

The museum manages the following satellites: