Eltz Manor
Vukovarsko-srijemska županija
Eltz Manor is an 18th-century Baroque palace located on the banks of the Danube River in Vukovar, Croatia. Originally constructed between 1749 and 1751 by the noble German House of Eltz, the palace served as the main residence of the Eltz family during the Lordship of Vukovar. The manor is a prime example of Baroque-classical architecture in continental Croatia and has been the home of the Vukovar City Museum since 1968. Over time, the building underwent several expansions, notably in 1781 and again in the early 20th century under the direction of Viennese architect Siedek, which gave it its final appearance. During the Croatian War of Independence, the manor suffered severe damage from bombardments, including being the first building in Vukovar bombed from the air in August 1991. After the war, a comprehensive restoration funded by the Croatian government and the Council of Europe Development Bank was carried out from 2008 to 2011, returning the manor to its pre-war grandeur. Today, Eltz Manor stands as an important cultural and historical monument, symbolizing resilience and the rich heritage of the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Eltz Manor is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant for exploring the museum and the surrounding area. Visitors are advised to check the opening hours in advance and consider booking tickets ahead to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours can enhance the experience by providing detailed historical context.
Interesting facts
- •Eltz Manor was featured on the reverse side of the Croatian 20 kuna banknote issued in 1993 and 2001.
- •It was the first building in Vukovar to be bombed from the air during the Croatian War of Independence in August 1991.
- •The manor was confiscated by the Yugoslav communist authorities in 1944, and the Eltz family was forced to leave the estate.
- •The restoration of the manor after the war took four years, from 2008 to 2011, funded by the Croatian government and the Council of Europe Development Bank.
History
The Eltz Manor was built between 1749 and 1751 after Philipp Karl von Eltz-Kempenich purchased the Vukovar estate in 1736.
Initially constructed as a central building, the manor was expanded in 1781 and later remodeled in the early 20th century.
The estate was confiscated by the Yugoslav communist administration in 1944, forcing the Eltz family to leave.
The manor suffered extensive damage during the Croatian War of Independence in 1991, particularly during the Battle of Vukovar.
Restoration efforts began in 2008 and were completed in 2011, restoring the manor to its former Baroque elegance.
Place Guide
Central Palace1749-1751
The original core of the manor built between 1749 and 1751, showcasing Baroque architectural style and design typical of the period.
1781 Expansion1781
The first major extension of the manor, adding new wings and enhancing the Baroque-classical style.
Early 20th Century RenovationEarly 1900s
Final architectural modifications designed by Viennese architect Siedek, giving the manor its present appearance.
Vukovar City Museum1968-present
Since 1968, Eltz Manor has housed the Vukovar City Museum, featuring exhibits on local history, culture, and heritage.
