What Laudato TV Is
Laudato TV is a Catholic television network and cultural hub in Zagreb, Croatia. It offers faith-based programming, community events, and cultural initiatives, and reaches local and diaspora audiences through cable, satellite, and online streaming (Laudato TV Official).
Its programming includes daily Mass, rosary prayers, spiritual reflections, documentaries, talk shows, children’s content, and live broadcasts of significant religious and cultural events. Most programming is in Croatian; select broadcasts, especially major events, may include English subtitles or commentary.
The network’s studio is at Gračanska cesta 208/2, on the northern edge of Zagreb near Medvednica Mountain. The complex spans approximately 1,300 square meters and includes production studios, offices, public areas, a chapel, and the physical and virtual Galerija Laudato.
History
The Laudato Association was founded by Ksenija Abramović in 2010 as a non-profit dedicated to promoting Christian values and social responsibility through publishing and multimedia. In 2015, the association launched Laudato TV as a full television channel. It has since become a major religious broadcaster in Croatia.
Croatia is predominantly Catholic, with more than 86% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. Laudato TV reflects and promotes Croatian religious and cultural traditions, including the lives of Croatian saints, religious festivals, and traditional music. It also addresses family life, education, and social justice from a Catholic perspective (Croatia Week).
The channel connects Croatian communities in Europe, North America, and Australia with religious services, news, and cultural programs from their homeland.
What to See and Experience
The studio, chapel, and gallery
The studio building combines contemporary design with spiritual symbolism. Its exterior has clean lines and a neutral palette, while natural light fills the interior. The complex includes advanced production studios, collaborative offices, and public areas (Catholic News Agency).
The on-site chapel serves as a place of worship and a showcase for contemporary Croatian sacred art. It has seating oriented toward the altar and stained-glass windows that filter daylight into vibrant colors. Its artworks include modern Stations of the Cross, portraits and statues—including a modern depiction of St. John Paul II and a Croatian-inspired statue of Our Lady—and a relic of Blessed James Alberione (Catholic News Agency).
Galerija Laudato presents works by leading Croatian artists engaging with Christian iconography. Its physical and virtual gallery has rotating exhibitions (Galerija Laudato).
The building has advanced broadcast infrastructure and live-streaming capabilities, efficient space planning, and full accessibility for visitors with disabilities. The chapel is open for prayer during special events and tours. The studio also hosts concerts, lectures, and gallery openings in cooperation with parishes and cultural organizations.
The studio was blessed by Cardinal Josip Bozanić (Catholic News Agency). Its design brings modern architecture together with sacred art, in a period marked by challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 earthquake.
Events and programming
Laudato TV’s schedule includes daily Mass, rosary prayers, and spiritual reflections. It covers major Catholic events such as papal visits and World Youth Day, and produces documentaries and talk shows on Croatian history, art, and social issues. “In Familia Dei” focuses on family and parenting, while “Duhovna misao” offers daily spiritual insights.
The “Domu mom” patriotic concert series brings together Croatian musicians, choirs, and cultural groups to celebrate music, patriotism, and faith. Its repertoire features patriotic and spiritual songs. The 2023 concert at Arena Zagreb drew over 20,000 attendees, including Croatians from around the world (Croatia Week). The concerts attract tens of thousands of attendees and viewers, including members of the global Croatian diaspora.
“Progledaj srcem” is described as Croatia’s largest spiritual music festival. Staged annually at venues such as Arena Zagreb and Maksimir Stadium, it features leading Croatian spiritual musicians, clergy-led worship, and family-friendly programming, attracting tens of thousands of attendees (Progledaj srcem Official). The program includes performances, opportunities for prayer and confession, and youth and family activities. Festival souvenirs and music releases are available, including live recordings from recent events.
Laudato TV maintains year-round engagement through broadcasts, online communities, and partnerships with parishes and NGOs.
Practical Visiting Information
Location, accessibility, and studio visits
The studio is at Gračanska cesta 208/2, at the base of Medvednica Mountain (Galerija Laudato). It is described as a serene setting with convenient access. The building is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators.
- Studio hours Weekdays, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; other times by appointment.
- Tours Guided tours are available by prior arrangement.
- Admission Free; advance booking is recommended.
- Contact Schedule visits via the official website or Galerija Laudato.
Special studio visits and guided tours can be arranged by appointment, especially during major religious or cultural celebrations.
Events, tickets, and online viewing
Public events, including “Domu mom,” are open to ticket holders. Tickets are sold online or at venue box offices; early booking is recommended because of high demand.
“Progledaj srcem” is typically held in May, with exact dates announced each year. Its venue is Arena Zagreb or Maksimir Stadium, and event hours are approximately 3 PM to 10 PM. Tickets are purchased online and frequently sell out. The venues are fully accessible, with dedicated family and disability services. Public transport is recommended, and accommodation should be booked early.
For those unable to visit in person, Laudato TV offers online streaming and on-demand content through its website and mobile app, including live Mass, concerts, and special programs.
Visitor Tips
- Check Laudato TV’s website and social media for event updates.
- Book tickets early for popular events.
- Arrange studio tours in advance.
- For festival visits, use public transport and book accommodation early.
- Explore the channel’s digital content if you cannot visit in person.
- Consider combining a visit with Arena Zagreb or Medvednica Park (Croatia Traveller).
Nearby Places
Zagreb Cathedral
Zagreb Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, stands at Kaptol Square. It is a Gothic cathedral and a central symbol of Croatian heritage (Zagreb Archdiocese).
Dating from the 13th century, the cathedral has survived earthquakes and wars, and underwent major reconstructions in the 19th century. Its twin spires are a defining feature of Zagreb’s skyline, while the interior includes stained glass and sacred art.
The cathedral is easily reached from Ban Jelačić Square on foot, by public transport, or by car. It has facilities for visitors with disabilities.
- Opening hours Daily, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Admission Free.
- Guided tours Available via the Zagreb Tourist Board and local agencies; audio guides are also offered.
Visitors can explore the main altar, side chapels, and crypt. Photography is permitted without flash. Visitors can attend Mass or concerts featuring sacred music. Major religious festivals and concerts are also held there; schedules are available on the official website.
Stone Gate and St. Mark’s Church are nearby, along with cafés, restaurants, and shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Laudato TV studio
- How do I book a visit? Arrange a guided tour through the official websites.
- Is the chapel open to the public? It is accessible during tours and special events.
- Is admission free? Yes. Advance booking is advised.
- Is the building accessible? Yes. It is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators.
“Progledaj srcem”
- When is the festival? Usually in May; check the official website for updates.
- Are tickets required? Yes, and they sell out quickly.
- Is it family-friendly? Yes. The festival has dedicated children’s areas and programming.
- Is the venue accessible? Yes.
Zagreb Cathedral
- Is there an entrance fee? No, entry is free.
- Can I attend Mass? Yes, visitors can attend.
- Are tours available? Yes, through local agencies or the Tourist Board.
- Is it accessible? The cathedral is described as fully accessible.
