National and University Library in Zagreb, National and university library in Trnje, Zagreb, Croatia.
The National and University Library in Zagreb is a modern cubic building that houses more than 3.6 million items in its collections. The building provides around 1000 reading and study spaces spread across its floors.
The institution grew from a collection that began in 1607 and received legal deposit rights in 1816, which solidified its role as a national library. The current building was completed in 1995 and marked a turning point around the time of the country's independence.
The library holds manuscripts, rare prints, and music scores that reflect Croatia's intellectual heritage and show visitors the people who shaped the nation. The collections allow you to follow how science and art developed across the centuries.
Visitors can use the reading areas without advance registration to browse books or work at computer terminals. The extended opening hours allow you to explore the collections on weekdays and weekends.
The building was designed by four Croatian architects working together to create a modern structure with international design influences. This collaborative approach shaped a space unlike typical libraries of that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.