Archaeological Museum in Zagreb
Grad Zagreb
The Archaeological Museum in Zagreb is a prominent institution dedicated to preserving and exhibiting a vast collection of over 450,000 archaeological artifacts, primarily from Croatia and its surrounding regions. Founded originally as part of the National Museum in 1846, it became an independent museum in 1939 and is currently housed in the historic Vranyczany-Hafner mansion at Zrinski Square. The museum is divided into five main sections: Prehistory, Egypt, Antiquity, Middle Ages, and Coins and Medals. Its collections include significant finds such as the Vučedol dove, an emblematic bird-shaped flagon, the Liber Linteus-the longest known Etruscan inscription preserved on linen bandages of a mummy-and the Lumbarda Psephisma, an ancient Greek stone inscription detailing the founding of a colony on Korčula island. The Egyptian section features a mummified young man dated between 900 and 790 BCE. The museum also houses one of Europe's largest numismatic collections and notable Greek and Roman antiquities, including statues, military equipment, and everyday items from Roman settlements in Croatia. Although the permanent exhibition is temporarily closed for repairs due to earthquake damage sustained in 2020, visitors can explore temporary exhibitions on the first floor. The museum plays an active role in archaeological research and manages the archaeological park Andautonija, preserving remains of an ancient Roman city near Zagreb.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit outside of renovation periods, as the permanent exhibition is currently closed due to earthquake repairs. Temporary exhibitions remain accessible. Check the museum's official website for updated opening hours and special events. Group visits require prior arrangement. Students and school groups can benefit from free access during certain months. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for special exhibitions and lectures.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds the Liber Linteus Zagrabiensis, the longest surviving Etruscan text, uniquely preserved on linen bandages of a mummy.
- •The Vučedol dove, a rare bird-shaped flagon, is a symbol of the Vučedol culture and a highlight of the museum's prehistoric collection.
- •The museum's numismatic collection is one of the largest in Europe, featuring coins from various historical periods.
- •It houses the mummified remains of a young Egyptian man dated between 900 and 790 BCE, one of the oldest such finds in the region.
- •The museum manages the archaeological park Andautonija, preserving ruins of an ancient Roman city near Zagreb.
History
The museum originated from the National Museum established in 1836 during the Austrian Empire.
It evolved through several institutional changes, becoming the State Institute of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia in 1866, with an independent Archaeological Department formed in 1878.
In 1939, it became a standalone institution.
Its location changed multiple times before settling in the 19th-century Vranyczany-Hafner mansion in Zagreb.
The museum has been active in archaeological excavations across Croatia since the 19th century and continues this work today.
The 2020 Zagreb earthquake caused significant damage to the building and collections, prompting ongoing restoration efforts.
Place Guide
Prehistory Section
This section features 78,000 objects from the Paleolithic through the Late Iron Age, illustrating human development in the region.
Egyptian Collection3rd century BCE
Displays approximately 600 objects including the mummified remains of a young Egyptian man and the Liber Linteus, the longest Etruscan inscription preserved on linen bandages.
Antiquity Section
Showcases Greek vases (around 1,500 vessels), stones with inscriptions, Roman statues, military equipment, religious artifacts, and everyday Roman items excavated from Croatian territories.
Numismatic Collection
One of the largest coin and medal collections in Europe, covering a wide range of historical periods and regions.
Lapidarium
An outdoor collection of stone monuments and inscriptions, complementing the museum's indoor exhibitions.
Contact
Phone: 01 4873 000
