Croatian National Theatre in Šibenik

The Croatian National Theatre in Šibenik (Hrvatsko narodno kazalište u Šibeniku) is a historic playhouse in the heart of the old town and one of the finest examples of nineteenth-century architecture in Dalmatian Šibenik. It stands close to the waterfront promenade and St James's Cathedral, so it fits naturally into a stroll through the historic centre.

When did the theatre open?

The building opened in 1870. It is regarded as the second oldest theatre in Croatia and the oldest one still in use. Its origins are unusual too: neither the state nor the city paid for it. Instead, a group of 28 prominent citizens of Šibenik financed the construction, which makes it a project born of civic ambition rather than official decree.

What does the building look like?

The architect was Josip Slade, who later also designed the Zetski Dom theatre in Montenegro. The facade evokes the Middle Ages, mixing Gothic and Romanesque references, and the whole is usually described as nineteenth-century eclecticism. It sits comfortably among the stone lanes of the old town while still standing out from them.

The auditorium was modelled on the Teatro La Fenice in Venice. Look up at the painted ceiling by Antun Zuccaro, which portrays the citizens who funded the theatre, a kind of public thank-you to its patrons. Tourism sources date the ceiling decoration to 1868, before the theatre opened.

Notable moments in its history

In 1896 the theatre gained electric lighting, making it one of the first theatres in the world to have it. It suffered war damage in 1991 and was restored between 1996 and 2001, and it again welcomes audiences today.

What can you see here?

The theatre has its own repertory company and also hosts guest performances. The programme changes with the season, so check the current schedule and ticket availability on the theatre's website or at the tourist information office before you go. Even if you are not planning to see a show, the facade is a great photo stop on a city walk.

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit the theatre without a performance ticket? Access depends on the theatre's management and schedule, so ask at the Šibenik tourist office. The exterior can be admired freely.

Who designed it? Josip Slade, who also designed a theatre in Montenegro.

Who paid for it? A group of 28 prominent local citizens, not a government body.

Is it still active? Yes. It has its own company and regularly presents guest productions.

How long should I allow? A quarter of an hour is enough to look at the building from outside; a performance takes an evening. It pairs well with a walk around the old town, other nearby Šibenik landmarks and dinner by the water.

If you are curious about Dalmatian culture, this theatre shows how much the townspeople valued the performing arts as early as the nineteenth century, and that the tradition has continued despite wartime damage and the need for rebuilding.