Origins and Founding
The Mimara Museum, officially known as the Art Collection of Ante and Wiltrud Topić Mimara, is a cornerstone of Zagreb’s cultural scene. Ante "Mimara" Topić (1898–1987) was a Croatian art collector and philanthropist who began assembling his vast collection in the early 20th century. His vision, together with his wife Wiltrud, was to create a public institution for the Croatian nation. Their donation—over 3,750 objects—was formalized in two major gifts (1973 and 1986), leading to the museum’s inauguration in 1987 (Wikipedia, infozagreb.hr).
Architectural Heritage
The museum is housed in a majestic neo-Renaissance palace built at the end of the 19th century. Originally constructed for educational purposes, its design reflects the grandeur and symmetry of the Renaissance revival, a style closely associated with Zagreb’s late 19th-century urban development (Touristlink, Wanderlog). The building features:
- A symmetrical façade with rusticated stonework and arched windows
- A grand entrance with a staircase and portico
- High ceilings, ornate moldings, and spacious galleries inside
Located on Roosevelt Square, the museum is a central landmark and part of Zagreb’s collection of historical and cultural institutions (Croatia Travel Guides).
Collection Highlights
The Mimara Museum is often described as a “small Louvre” due to the breadth and diversity of its holdings (TripXL). The collection is organized chronologically and by region, offering visitors a structured journey through art history.
European Old Masters
- Italian Renaissance and Baroque Works attributed to Raphael, Giorgione, Veronese, Canaletto
- Flemish and Dutch Schools Rubens, Van Dyck, Bosch, Rembrandt
- French Masters Delacroix, Corot, Manet, Renoir, Degas
- Spanish Artists Velázquez, Murillo, Goya
- German and English Painters Holbein, Turner, Gainsborough
Decorative and Applied Arts
- Glassware Rare Ptolemaic glass from Alexandria
- Textiles and Carpets Oriental carpets from the Middle East and Asia
- Furniture, Ivory, and Jade European furniture and Qing-dynasty Chinese objects
Archaeological and Ancient Art
- Artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Near East
- Medieval religious art, including ornate wooden crosses
Asian and Far Eastern Art
- Chinese porcelain
- Southeast Asian sculptures and ceramics
The museum also features a large art library supporting research and education (WhichMuseum, Time Out).
Visiting Information
Current Status:
The museum is temporarily closed for restoration following damage from the 2020 earthquake. Reopening is anticipated following renovations.
Typical Visiting Hours (when open):
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays and public holidays (Official Website)
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: ~5–6 EUR
- Discounts for students, seniors, and groups; free for children under 7
- Tickets available at the entrance or via the official website
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators
- Restrooms and cloakroom near the entrance
- Museum shop offers books, postcards, and souvenirs
Guided Tours and Events:
- Guided tours in several languages available on request
- Audio guides often available; check in advance
- Special exhibitions, workshops, and concerts are held throughout the year
Location:
Rooseveltov trg 5, Lower Town, Zagreb. Accessible by tram (lines 12, 13, 14, 17), taxi, or on foot from Ban Jelačić Square (Absolute Croatia).
Nearby Attractions
The museum’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring:
- Croatian National Theatre
- Botanical Garden
- Zagreb City Museum
- Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters
- Ban Jelačić Square
- Numerous nearby cafés and restaurants
For more on Zagreb historical sites, see Chasing the Donkey.
Recent Developments: Closure and Renovation
Following the 2020 earthquake, the Mimara Museum sustained structural damage, prompting extensive restoration efforts. Renovations are focused on preserving the building’s architectural integrity and restoring damaged artworks, with a “grand comeback” anticipated (Wikipedia, infozagreb.hr).
FAQs
Q: What are the Mimara Museum’s opening hours?
A: Typically Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays (always check current status).
Q: How much are tickets?
A: About 5–6 EUR for adults; discounts apply for students, seniors, and groups.
Q: Is the museum accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, tours and audio guides are usually available, especially for groups and during special exhibitions.
Q: How do I get there?
A: By tram (12, 13, 14, 17), taxi, or a short walk from Ban Jelačić Square.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Check for signs or ask staff; restrictions may apply in certain galleries.
