Vukovar Water Tower
Vukovarsko-srijemska županija
The Vukovar Water Tower is a prominent landmark in Vukovar, Croatia, symbolizing the city's suffering and resistance during the Croatian War of Independence. Constructed between 1962 and 1968 to replace an older water tower, it served as a vital water reservoir with a capacity of 2200 cubic meters. The tower is 50 meters tall, with a massive structure designed by architects Petar Kušan and Sergej Kolobov, and engineered under the guidance of Aleksandar Rose. Originally, it featured a restaurant and café at the top, offering panoramic views of Vukovar and the Danube River. During the 1991 Battle of Vukovar, the tower was heavily damaged by approximately 640 enemy projectiles but remained standing, becoming a powerful emblem of Croatian resilience. After extensive restoration completed in 2020, the tower now functions as a memorial with preserved battle scars visible behind glass, a memorial room, stairs, and a viewing platform. The site includes an amphitheater, playground, and café, making it a place of remembrance and community gathering. It is also a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, aligning it with globally recognized towers like the Eiffel Tower and Empire State Building.
Plan your trip to Croatia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during spring and autumn for comfortable weather and to avoid summer heat. Tickets should be purchased in advance when possible, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry. The tower offers memorial exhibitions and a viewing platform that can accommodate up to 70 people at once. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. The site includes an amphitheater and café for a complete visitor experience. Guided tours may be available through local tourist services for a deeper understanding of the tower's history and significance.
Interesting facts
- •The tower was hit by approximately 640 enemy projectiles during the 1991 Battle of Vukovar.
- •Originally, the tower had a restaurant and café at the top offering panoramic views, which closed in 1970.
- •The tower's restoration preserved the bullet holes and damage as a permanent reminder of the war.
- •It is one of the largest water towers built in Europe during the 1960s with a water capacity of 2200 cubic meters.
- •The tower became a member of the World Federation of Great Towers in 2021, joining famous towers like the Eiffel Tower and Empire State Building.
History
The Vukovar Water Tower was built from 1962 to 1968 to meet the growing water needs of Vukovar and surrounding settlements.
It replaced an older, insufficient water tower near the city center.
Designed by architects Petar Kušan and Sergej Kolobov and engineered by Aleksandar Rose, the tower was among the largest of its kind in Europe at the time.
During the Croatian War of Independence in 1991, it was heavily shelled but remained standing, becoming an iconic symbol of the city's resistance.
Restoration plans aimed to preserve its war-damaged appearance as a memorial.
The renovated tower was officially reopened in October 2020, now serving as a memorial and cultural site.
Place Guide
Memorial Stairs and Room2020
The memorial stairs lead visitors through the history and suffering of Vukovar during the war, culminating in a memorial room that honors those affected by the conflict.
Viewing Platform2020
Located at the top of the tower, the viewing platform offers panoramic views of Vukovar, the Danube River, and surrounding regions including Osijek, Ilok, and parts of Vojvodina in Serbia.
Amphitheater and Surrounding Grounds
At the base of the tower, the amphitheater with 100 seats, a children’s playground, and a café provide a welcoming space for community events and visitor relaxation.
Contact
Phone: 032 639 999
