Culture · 27 of the best in Zagreb
The Croatian National Theatre: a stage for a nation
The back story
About The Croatian National Theatre: a stage for a nation
The Croatian National Theatre, the yellow palace on the Green Horseshoe, is the grandest stage in Croatia, home to its national opera, ballet and drama, and one of the most beautiful theatres of Central Europe.
Built by the theatre specialists
The theatre was designed by the Viennese architects Fellner & Helmer, who built opera houses and theatres across Central Europe. It opened in 1895, in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph, who tapped in the last silver nail.
The Well of Life
In front of the theatre stands the Well of Life, an early masterpiece by the sculptor Ivan Meštrović, showing figures circling a well, a meditation on the cycle of life.
Opening night in 1895 brought an emperor to Zagreb.
Opera, ballet and drama
The theatre is home to the Croatian National Opera, Ballet and Drama. Opera and ballet need no Croatian, and an evening in the gilded red auditorium is one of Zagreb’s great experiences.
Our advice: book an opera or ballet for your stay, arrive early to admire the foyer, and have a coffee at Kavkaz across the square before the performance.
Why it's on our list
- Fellner & Helmer
- Opened in 1895
- Meštrović’s Well of Life
- Seeing a performance
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with The Croatian National Theatre: a stage for a nation before you go.