Zagreb - Pearl of Architecture
I'm sure that there are no locals, students or tourists who haven't heard or passed the beautiful mosque. When we mention the Zagreb's mosque, we always discuss the big building that is the first one of these dimensions and content in our region. In particular, conversations you can hear about years of preparation, construction, the participation of important people, big donors, the role in community life and stuff like this. Sometimes someone mentioned designers and contractors but there has never been a word about the project. However, one thing is sure. And that is that everyone likes the Zagreb's mosque. And everyone has only the words of praise for it.
Image credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Marko Vrdoljak
So, what makes Zagreb's mosque so special?
Meštrović's Pavilion that is located on one of the most beautiful, most interesting and most famous squares in Zagreb - the Victims of Fascism Square - is a monument of the rich and very turbulent history. With changes of the political regime, the function of the pavilion changed as well. Each government wanted this representative building for achieving their goals. The building was being constructed from 1933 to 1938 according to the conceptual sketch of the famous sculptor Ivan Meštrović, while Bilinić H. and L. Horvat created the architectural plans.
Very rich and turbulent history of Meštrović's pavilion
At the time of the construction, today's Zagreb's mosque was a unique exhibition space in Europe and in the world. The original purpose of the building was to be a monument to the Yugoslav King Peter I. the Great Liberator and the House of Fine Arts. However, this place had already been colloquially called Meštrović's Pavilion after its creator. In 1941, with the World War II in the region and the proclamation of the Independent State of Croatia, the building changed its function and became the central mosque.
Around it, three huge minarets were built which thoroughly rearranged the interior. Although the mosque was started only in 1944, it has ceased to be so already in 1945 but in the local jargon the building was remembered as a mosque to this day. So, almost all citizens of Zagreb call this place mosque. In an era of socialist Yugoslavia, Mosque became the first National Liberation Museum, and after that the Museum of National Revolution. Of course, the interior is again systematically converted and at this time, it was designed according to the architect Vjenceslav Richter.
A cult place for numerous world and national art exhibitions
Finally, in 1993 the building was returned to its original use, as well as the old official name of the Croatian Association of Artist. A comprehensive renovation and restoration of the building lasted from 2001 to 2006. However, this cult place, in addition to being a host to numerous world and national art exhibitions, it is also a favourite place of many Zagreb's skaters. It is generally known that 'Go Skate Day' is celebrated in front of the Meštrović's Pavilion. So, many locals and tourists usually like to stop, lie down on the grass and watch so many boys skillfully performing various stunts on their boards. In just a few minutes, the show usually gathers a lot of people who are trying to encourage all teens with cheering and applause.
Image credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Marko Vrdoljak
If you ever find yourself near the Mosques, one thing is certain - you will never be bored. In addition to numerous works of art that can be seen inside the pavilion, you can also observe street art made by Zagrebian teenagers. It depends on you which show you want to enjoy. :)
Header image credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Marko Vrdoljak
Author: Nikolina Jozanović