The Croatian National Theatre is an architectural masterpiece and renowned performance venue. Many world-famous opera singers and ballet dancers have performed on its stage since it first opened more than a century ago. Marvel at the exterior splendor and book tickets for a performance or a tour to see the auditorium’s sumptuous décor.
The theater was designed by Viennese architects FerdinandFellner and HermannHelmer, the same pair behind other notable buildings including Zagreb's Art Pavilion and Vienna's Akademietheater. It was officially opened by Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1895. During the ceremony the emperor symbolically performed the final blow by hitting a block with a silver hammer, marking the theater's completion. Visit the Zagreb City Museum to see this hammer, which is now exhibited here.
While admiring the impressive façade, appreciate the bronze sculpture that stands in front. The work of internationally renowned 20th-century Croatian artist Ivan Meštrović, the Well of Life depicts various human figures embracing around a central well. It is widely regarded as one of Meštrović’s finest.
To see the theater's richly decorated auditorium, purchase tickets to a show or arrange to visit on a tour. Organized in conjunction with the actors of the Croatian National Theatre, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the theater building, revealing hidden corners rarely seen by outsiders, such as dressing rooms, studios and workshops.
While inside, look toward the stage and consider all the talented artists who have performed here, to the music of Franz Liszt, Richard Strauss and other famous composers. Look up to the auditorium ceiling, which was painted by Viennese artist Alexander Demetrius Goltz. The stage is also of interest. It can accommodate eight different specially crafted ceremonial curtains, each of which features an elaborate depiction and is used for special shows or occasions.
The Croatian National Theatre is located in the heart of Zagreb, about a 10-minute walk from Bana Jelačića Square. View the theater from the outside at any time, but purchase tickets for a performance or tour to see the interior. To get here, take the tram to Rooseveltov Trg station.
