Ivan Meštrović Gallery
Splitsko-dalmatinska županija
The Ivan Meštrović Gallery, established in 1952, is housed in the palace built by the sculptor Ivan Meštrović himself between 1931 and 1936 in Split, Croatia. The museum preserves a significant collection that includes 192 sculptures, 583 drawings, 4 paintings, and 291 architectural plans created by Meštrović from 1898 to 1961. The building was originally designed as a combined residential and work space for the artist. The gallery offers visitors insight into Meštrović's artistic evolution and his contribution to Croatian and international art. Besides the indoor collections, the gallery features a garden with sculptures and architectural elements, reflecting Meštrović's unique style blending traditional Croatian motifs with modernist influences. Currently, due to energy renovation works, the exhibition space is partially unavailable, but visitors can still explore the garden and the surrounding architecture. The gallery also organizes educational workshops, interactive games, and exhibitions to engage a broad audience and promote Meštrović's legacy.
Plan your trip to Croatia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit the Ivan Meštrović Gallery is from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with the last admission half an hour before closing. The gallery is closed on Mondays and public holidays. Due to ongoing renovation, the indoor exhibition space is partially closed, but the garden and sculptures remain accessible. Visitors can purchase discounted tickets that include access to Meštrović's Crikvine-Kaštilac site. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the gallery in advance for up-to-date information and to participate in free guided tours or educational programs, especially for students.
Interesting facts
- •The gallery's collection includes 192 sculptures and 583 drawings by Ivan Meštrović, spanning over six decades of his artistic career.
- •The building was originally designed and constructed by Meštrović himself as a combined home and studio between 1931 and 1936.
- •Due to ongoing energy renovation work, the indoor exhibition spaces are temporarily closed, but the garden with sculptures remains open to visitors.
- •The gallery also administers Meštrović's Crikvine-Kaštilac site, which is included in the ticket and accessible to visitors.
History
The Ivan Meštrović Gallery was founded in 1952 in the palace built by Meštrović himself between 1931 and 1936 as his residential and working space.
Over the decades, the gallery has grown to house a comprehensive collection of Meštrović's works spanning from 1898 to 1961, including sculptures, drawings, paintings, and architectural plans.
It has become a central institution preserving and promoting the legacy of Croatia's most famous sculptor.
Renovations and expansions have been undertaken to maintain the building and improve visitor experience, including current energy renovation works affecting exhibition accessibility.
Place Guide
Main Gallery Building1931-1936
The palace built by Ivan Meštrović between 1931 and 1936 serves as the main exhibition space, showcasing his sculptures, drawings, and architectural plans. It reflects his unique architectural style combining residential and studio functions.
Sculpture Garden
The garden surrounding the gallery features numerous sculptures and architectural elements by Meštrović, offering an open-air experience of his art and design.
Meštrović's Crikvine-Kaštilac
A related site administered by the gallery, featuring additional works by Meštrović, included in the ticket price and accessible to visitors.
Contact
Phone: 021 340 800
