Meštrović Atelier

Visiting the Meštrović Atelier in Zagreb (2025): Renovation Updates, Tickets, and Guide to Alternative Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Meštrović Atelier, located in Zagreb’s historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad), stands as a monument to the artistic legacy of Ivan Meštrović, Croatia’s most renowned sculptor. Esteemed for its collection of over 100 sculptures, reliefs, and architectural models, the Atelier is set within Meštrović’s former home and studio—a space that encapsulates both his creative journey and the cultural history of 20th-century Croatia (visitcroatia.com; mestrovic.hr). As of June 2025, the Atelier is temporarily closed for extensive renovations, but there remain rich opportunities to engage with Meštrović’s art and Croatia’s broader heritage across multiple locations.

This guide delivers the latest information on Meštrović Atelier visiting hours, tickets, renovation status, and essential tips for exploring related historical sites in Zagreb and beyond.

Current Status: Renovation and Access

Renovation Overview

The Meštrović Atelier has been closed since March 1, 2022, undergoing a comprehensive restoration funded by Croatia’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan and the EU Solidarity Fund. The project addresses:

Structural reinforcement for seismic safety and longevity.
Energy efficiency upgrades—new insulation and climate control systems to protect the collection.
Restoration of original architectural details to preserve the atelier’s authenticity.
Improved accessibility for visitors with disabilities and modernized visitor facilities.

No official reopening date is available as of June 2025. For the latest updates on renovations and reopening, regularly check the Meštrović Museums website or contact the museum at +385 (0)1 48 51 123 / [email protected].

Impact on Visitors and Ticketing

All in-person exhibitions and guided tours in Zagreb are suspended during renovation.
No tickets are available for the Meštrović Atelier until reopening.
Virtual exhibitions and educational resources are available online (mestrovic.hr).

Where to See Meštrović’s Art While the Atelier is Closed

1. Meštrović Gallery (Split)

Set in Meštrović’s former seafront villa, the Meštrović Gallery in Split houses an extensive collection of sculptures, drawings, and personal artifacts.

Current Status: Partially open during renovations (main indoor exhibits temporarily closed, but gardens and outdoor sculptures accessible).
Tickets: Reduced by 50% during indoor closures; tickets include entry to Crikvine–Kaštilac.
Visiting Hours (Jun 1 – Oct 31, 2025): Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays/public holidays.
Visitor Tip: Enjoy the garden’s monumental bronzes and panoramic views.

2. Crikvine–Kaštilac (Split)

This historic retreat, transformed by Meštrović, features the Chapel of the Holy Cross adorned with his wooden reliefs.

Hours: Same as Meštrović Gallery; admission with gallery ticket.
Highlight: The chapel’s unique carvings and serene setting near Marjan Hill.

3. Church of the Most Holy Redeemer (Mausoleum, Otavice)

Meštrović’s family mausoleum near Šibenik is a profound example of his spiritual vision.

Hours (Oct 15, 2024 – May 31, 2025): Tue–Sat 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; closed Sun/Mon/holidays.
Hours (Jun 1 – Oct 31, 2025): Tue–Fri 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sat–Sun 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; closed Mondays/public holidays.
Visitor Tip: Respectful attire required; the remote setting offers insight into Meštrović’s roots.

4. Outdoor Meštrović Sculptures in Zagreb

Even while the Atelier is closed, Meštrović’s public works remain accessible:

Meštrović Pavilion – Now a contemporary art space.
The Well of Life – Iconic 1905 bronze outside the Croatian National Theatre.
History of the Croats – At the University of Zagreb’s Law Faculty.
Nikola Tesla Statue – Near Cvjetni Square.

Walking tours of these sites provide a meaningful connection to Meštrović’s legacy within Zagreb’s historic core.

Meštrović Atelier: Location, Setting, and Visitor Experience

Atmosphere and Layout

The Atelier’s 17th-century building, thoughtfully renovated by Meštrović and leading Croatian architects, blends Mediterranean and classical styles. Its intimate interior, original furnishings, and light-filled studio once offered a unique window into the artist’s world (Atelier Meštrović Official). Upon reopening, the Atelier will feature:

Lobby/Atrium: Main exhibition area for sculptures.
Studio and Garden: Displaying a dynamic range of works in marble, bronze, and wood.
Residential Quarters: Preserved with period décor.

Accessibility and Facilities

Post-renovation, expect improved wheelchair access, tactile tours, and upgraded visitor amenities. Until then, contact each Meštrović museum for specific accessibility information.

Plan Your Meštrović Experience: Practical Tips

Stay Updated: Always verify opening hours and ticketing on the Meštrović Museums website before visiting.
Combined Tickets: In Split, one ticket covers both the Meštrović Gallery and Crikvine–Kaštilac.
Guided Tours: Highly recommended for context and insight—available in multiple languages at open locations.
Photography: Permitted in gardens and exteriors; restrictions apply indoors and in religious spaces.
Public Transport: All main Meštrović sites are accessible via public transit, with walking tours recommended in Zagreb’s Upper Town.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When will the Meštrović Atelier in Zagreb reopen?
A: No official date has been set. Check mestrovic.hr for updates.

Q: Can I buy tickets for the Meštrović Atelier during its closure?
A: No, in-person tickets are unavailable until reopening. Explore virtual resources online.

Q: What are the Split Meštrović Gallery’s 2025 visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, closed Mondays and public holidays (June–October).

Q: Is accessibility available at Meštrović sites?
A: Accessibility varies by site and renovation status. Contact locations directly for details.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, at open Meštrović sites; advance booking is advisable.

Visual Resources and SEO Tips

Enhance your planning with:

Virtual tours and photo galleries on the official website.
SEO-optimized image alt tags such as “Meštrović Atelier visiting hours,” “Meštrović tickets Zagreb,” and “Ivan Meštrović sculptures.”
Interactive maps highlighting all Meštrović-related locations.

Summary and Cultural Travel Tips

The Meštrović Atelier remains a cornerstone of Croatian cultural heritage, even during renovation. While its doors are closed, Meštrović’s artistry can be experienced at alternative venues in Split and Otavice, as well as through public sculptures across Zagreb (mestrovic.hr; visitcroatia.com; totalcroatia.eu). Upon reopening, the Atelier will offer enhanced accessibility and a revitalized visitor experience amid Zagreb’s historic Upper Town.

For a comprehensive Meštrović journey: