There are already plenty of great reasons to plan a visit to the theatre if you book a holiday rental in Rijeka – a whole calendar of reasons! - but the building of the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre itself is already compelling enough even if you weren't attending a performance in its hallowed halls.
Located on the bank of the Rječina River, not far from the port's docks, and by the main market in the city, the stunning theatre building dates to the late 19th century after the previous iteration of the city’s theatre was found to be a fire hazard in the wake of several fires in theatres around Europe at the time. With a legacy of productions and theatre culture in the city going back centuries, it was decided that a new and safer theatre would be built for Rijeka under the mayor, Giovanni Ciotta. A specialised design studio in Vienna was tasked with the project and architects Herman Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner led the team.
Opened in 1885 with performances of two operas specifically created for the event, the theatre has continued to be a major cultural hub in Rijeka, making it a must for any culture vulture who books a vacation rental in Rijeka and is exploring all that the city has to offer. The annual calendar at the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre features ballet, opera, concerts, chamber orchestra, theatrical productions, and more. Attending one of these performances is sure to enhance your experience of the city and to help steep visitors into Croatian culture.
However, as we have noted, merely exploring the theatre would be an incredible outing in its own right because, in addition to its architectural value, it is stuffed with the amazing touches of many other masters and great artists. Sometimes tours are arranged, specifically some guided tours of the masterpieces within its walls, but the best and easiest way to see the theatre is while attending a performance – it’s a two-for-one bargain.
What treasures, though, are held within its walls? Well, in addition to the decorative and figurative contributions of the famous Venetian sculptor Augusto Benvenuti, there are also the painted ceilings of the theatre, which were created by the Austrian painter and sculptor painter Franz Matsch alongside brothers Ernst and Gustav Klimt. Yes, as in that Klimt.
A true celebration of the peak of the grandeur and elaborate ornamentation of the theatres of the time, the stunning Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre, with its neatly manicured grounds and surroundings, grand temple facade made more romantic by the domes soaring overhead, and gorgeous jewellery box interior featuring beautiful sculptural and painted artworks astounded the crowds when those first performances took place. To this day, its beauty continues to cause awe and impress visitors and only enhance the magical experience of attending a performance or show at the theatre. There is, indeed, a reason as to why this is Croatia’s National Theatre.
So, be sure to book your villa in Rijeka today and come explore this wonderfully charming city, wander her pretty parks, visit the market, spend days by the sea, indulge in delicious local delicacies, and visit her museums. Then, on at least one evening, make it a point to also try and plan a trip to the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre to enjoy a performance itself as well as the incredible beauty and grandeur of your surroundings!
Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre
Verdijeva ul. bb, 51000, Rijeka
+385 (0) 51 355 900
zajc@hnk-zajc.hr