Croatian State Archives is one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings in this part of Europe. Not only it is a wonderful combination of Viennese secessionism but also of modern European architecture. The fascinating and beautiful fixtures and furnishings are breath-taking.

TIP: IT IS FILLED WITH RICH WORKS OF ART. AS A MATTER OF FACT, INSIDE YOU WILL BE OVERWHELMED WITH ARTWORK FROM THE BEST CROATIAN PAINTERS AND SCULPTORS. IT COULD BE THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR VISIT.

THE GREAT READING ROOM IS FABULOUS BUT MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT THE SMALLER ROOMS AS WELL.

Croatian State Archives often get missed because it is not on the main promenade. Built-in 1913 as the National and University Library this is the most beautiful palace of Croatian Art Nouveau.

Its history traces back to the 17th century. In the meantime, they have accumulated more than 23.500 linear meters of archival records. The records which date back to the 10th century.

The Croatian State Archives records hold:

• Medieval charters
• Collection of maps with 4631 cartographic units
• Croatian genealogy
• Family crest and history records
• Military records
• Census records
• Glagolitic manuscripts and documents in the Glagolitic Writings Collection

Croatian State Archives can accommodate business meetings and events.

Permanent exhibition

Croatian State Archives keeps authentic past records. In addition, they present the records to the public via thematic exhibitions.

Some of these exhibitions are permanently open to the public.

The Thursday Night Film (once a month)

One Thursday every month, you have a chance to watch one of the films that are stored in the Croatian Film Archives.

Croatian State Archives Design and Rooms

Every detail, both inside and out, was carefully designed. Filled with the artwork and details designed and built for this building. Outside the owls on the roof symbolize knowledge and education. Inside in the reading rooms, you can find Tiffany reading lamps on long wooden tables which take you back in time.

The Atrium

Decorated with checkered marble floor and pink marble wall panels

The Great Reading Room

The Reading Room has undergone full restoration in 2004. The highlights are its enormous chandeliers, stained-glass ceiling, bronze reliefs, and spectacular mural.

The Teachers room

You will notice the lamps and pictures above doors.

Croatian State Archives opening hours

• Monday – Wednesday 08:15-15:45
• Thursday 08:15-17:45
• Friday 08:15-14:45

Closed on Saturday and Sunday

Croatian State Archives prices and guided tour

• Adults – 20 HRK
• Full-time students and seniors – 10 HRK

Guided tours

Monday – Friday at 1 PM and 2 PM

During tours, visitors get a chance to browse through ongoing exhibitions.

Croatian State Archives Exhibitions

• The 400th Anniversary of the beginning of the 30 Years War – Who Were Those “Terrible Croats”? – 10 April – 7 June 2018

Croatian State Archives souvenir shop

Monday – Friday 09:00 – 15:00

Do not miss out on a chance to buy authentic Croatian souvenirs.

You can find:

• Replica of Croatian literary heritage kept in the Croatian State Archives.
• Reproductions inspired by contents from archive funds which represent different origins of Croatian cultural heritage (graphics of Croatian towns and cities, famous people and costumes, maps, posters and photographs)

What can you see and do at the Croatian State Archives?

You will marvel at the most beautiful Art Nouveau building in this part of Europe.

Plan your time so you can visit and take a guided tour of the Croatian State Archives and its rooms. The great reading room is fabulous but make sure you check out the smaller rooms as well.

How to get to Croatian State Archives?

From the Ban Jelačić Square, it is some 15 minutes walking distance. Just head south towards the Zagreb Train Station and King Tomislav Square. From the King Tomislav Square just head west past the Esplanade hotel. The Croatian State Archives is situated across the Zagreb Botanical Gardens.

Parking

You can park around Marulić Square, in Runjaninova and Crnatkova Street.

Parking Zone 1. Read our guide on Zagreb Parking for more information.

Taxi or UBER is always an option.