Meštrović Pavilion

The Meštrović Pavilion (Meštrovićev paviljon) is a circular building in central Zagreb and, for decades, the official seat of the Croatian Society of Fine Artists (HDLU). It is also known as the Home of Croatian Visual Artists and, colloquially, as "the Mosque". It stands on the Square of the Victims of Fascism and is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.

Who designed the pavilion and when was it built?

The sculptor Ivan Meštrović, one of the leading figures of twentieth-century Croatian art, designed the building, which was completed in 1938. It was meant to serve as an exhibition space for artists while also commemorating the late King Peter. Rather than commission a traditional monument, the organisers chose a building in which art could be shown. Construction took place in the second half of the 1930s, with architects working alongside Meštrović on the detailed plans.

Why is it called "the Mosque"?

The nickname comes from the building's turbulent history. Before World War II it operated as an art gallery. During the war, under the Independent State of Croatia (NDH), it was converted into a mosque. After the war, in socialist Yugoslavia, it became the Museum of the Revolution. Few buildings in the city changed purpose so many times within a few decades, and the pavilion reflects the political shifts of the region.

What does the building look like?

The pavilion has a circular plan and a prominent dome, a form that was unusual in the city when it was built. Its shape stands out from the surrounding architecture and is easy to spot from a distance. The monumental character of the whole is typical of Meštrović, who was also a prolific designer of sculptures and memorials.

What is it used for today?

In 1990 the building was returned to the Croatian Society of Fine Artists. After an extensive renovation, it has served since 2006 as an exhibition space and cultural venue. The programme consists mainly of temporary exhibitions of contemporary art organised by the society's members. There is no permanent collection, so what you see depends on the current schedule. Before visiting, check which exhibition is on and when the pavilion is open.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Meštrović Pavilion really a mosque? No. "The Mosque" is a colloquial name dating from the wartime period when the building was used that way. Today it is a gallery and cultural venue.

Is there a permanent collection? No. The pavilion hosts temporary exhibitions, so every visit can be different.

Where exactly is it? On the Square of the Victims of Fascism in central Zagreb, easy to combine with other sights in the city.

Is it worth visiting if I am not into art? Yes, for the architecture and the history alone. The round, domed structure and its path from gallery to mosque to museum make it an interesting stop in the Croatian capital.

Who is it for?

Fans of twentieth-century architecture, people interested in the work of Ivan Meštrović, and visitors who want to see current shows by Croatian artists will appreciate the pavilion. The visit is short, so it fits easily into a walk around the centre. If you want a particular exhibition, check the artists' society programme first, as it changes regularly. The building itself is worth a pause even if you do not plan to go inside.