Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc in Rijeka

The Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc in Rijeka (HNK Zajc) is the city's house for theatre, opera and ballet, and one of its most representative buildings. This neo-Renaissance landmark from the late nineteenth century is still a working stage, and it makes an excellent stop on a walk through the historic centre.

What is HNK Zajc?

It is one of four national theatres in the Republic of Croatia. The institution runs three companies, drama, opera and ballet, so the programme covers plays as well as operas and ballet productions. The theatre is named after Ivan pl. Zajc, a composer associated with Rijeka. It received its present name in 1991, when it became a national theatre.

How was the building created?

Rijeka previously had the Adamich theatre, in use since 1805. Over time it no longer met the standards of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, especially regarding fire safety. In 1883 the city government, led by Mayor Giovanni Ciotta, decided to build a grand new house.

The design came from the Viennese office of Fellner & Helmer, which planned dozens of theatres across the Monarchy. Construction ran from 1883 to 1885. The theatre opened on 3 October 1885 with Verdi's Aida, under the name Teatro Comunale. In 1913 it was renamed Teatro comunale Giuseppe Verdi, and after 1946 it became Teatro del popolo.

What does the building look like?

The exterior is neo-Renaissance, while the interior is neo-Baroque. The facade carries sculptures by Augusto Benvenuti and Viennese sculptors. The auditorium ceiling was painted by the Klimt brothers and Franz Matsch. The theatre ranks among the most important examples of Habsburg-era architecture in Rijeka.

Why does this theatre matter to Rijeka?

In the nineteenth century Rijeka was a significant port of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, and a new theatre was meant to reflect the city's standing. Buildings of this kind were symbols of prestige and civic identity. Today it remains a centre of cultural life, and its history, from Teatro Comunale to national theatre, shows how the city and the states it belonged to changed over time.

Tips for visitors

Check the programme and showtimes on the theatre's website before you arrive. Come early to see the facade and the foyer. The historic interior is most impressive in the evening light, so attending a performance is the best way to experience the building.

Frequently asked questions

When did the theatre in Rijeka open? On 3 October 1885, with Verdi's Aida.

Who designed the building? The Viennese firm Fellner & Helmer.

Since when has it had its current name? Since 1991, when it became one of Croatia's four national theatres.

What is performed here? Drama, opera and ballet.

Where is it? In the centre of Rijeka, near the main sights, at roughly 45.324 N, 14.445 E.