Croatian National Archives
The collection
Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you look at it, walls can not speak, but the documents that are hidden behind the walls of Croatian National Archives can tell countless stories about Croatian past, as well as present times. It holds more than staggering 23,500 linear metres of archival records, dating from the 10th century to the present day and they are arranged into more than 1,850 archival funds and collections. Its beginnings are linked to the year 1643, and since then the Archive collects all documents that can be categorised as ones of national interest and other valuable records and art.
Image credit: Croatian National Archives
Beyond documents
Besides the collection, building where the Archive is located is monumental and impressive. Not only it is a home to so many precious documents and historical artefacts, but the building itself is a work of art. It is the most important palace of Croatian secession, and it is perfectly integrated into the whole urban plan of the Lower Town and the so-called Green Horseshoe. The most distinctive parts of the building facade are four pillars which contain owls carrying globes representing the allegory of four collegiate sciences – philosophy, medicine, law and theology. The reason for this is that in addition to the Archives, the building for some time housed the National University Library as well. The interior is a story of its own – a grand reading room, luxurious chandeliers, stained glass windows, mosaics and so on are all acts of the best Croatian sculptors and painters of the time. Therefore, it is a mandatory point on the map of expert visits by architects, building constructors and art historians from all over Europe.
Image credit: Croatian National Archives
Available to every citizen
After reading all these facts that tell us about the importance of the building and everything that it contains, you may think its doors are open just for experts and Archives employees. However, since one of its fundamental tasks is providing all citizens access to the documents, anyone can get inside! Even if you are just interested in walking around a bit and seeing the architecture.
Place to read
Despite the fact it is open and available to everyone, it has somehow ended up a bit neglected by the locals and it is not that famous as a tourist attraction, therefore it never gets too crowded around there. It makes it perfect quiet place to read or study – if you are not that interested in historical documents in Archives holdings, bring your own literature. Find your perfect cosy spot in a big reading room, soak up the words and enjoy a sumptuous interior that will take you straight into another era.
The surroundings
As said before, the building of Croatian National Archives is a part of Green, or Lenuci's Horseshoe – a part of the city full of beautiful buildings and parks. By itself, this horseshoe represents a great achievement of Croatian urban town construction. For its structure and content, it is also one of the most beautiful cultural and historical monuments of the 19th century. Besides the historical significance, today it represents one of Zagreb's most beloved promenades in the city centre and the quiet oasis for relaxation. So, when you find yourself in this area, be sure not to miss the Botanical Garden, the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Croatian National Theatre, Central Railway Station and Zrinjevac Park and everything in between.
Header image credit: Croatian National Archives
Author: Anđela Ivčević