Croatian National Theatre

The Croatian National Theatre

The Split audio-guided tour presents you with the Croatian National Theatre, a high place of the culture of the city, whose pale yellow Neo-Baroque façade houses more than a century of performances.

A theatre in the service of Croatian identity

The theatre opened its doors in 1893, at the time when Split was still under Austro-Hungarian domination. Its construction marked an important step in the affirmation of Croatian identity: there one played in the Croatian language, one celebrated the national culture and one debated. From its beginnings, it established itself as an intellectual and artistic centre, hosting classical plays as well as Italian operas, local creations and concerts. It still today offers a varied programme, with a permanent opera, ballet and theatre. Its architecture, typical of the end of the nineteenth century, is distinguished by its symmetrical façade with Neo-Baroque details and its discreet but elegant ornaments.

What there is to see

The Croatian National Theatre charms with its pale yellow façade with Neo-Baroque ornaments and its history linked to the affirmation of Croatian identity. A living stage of Split, it hosts operas, ballets and theatre. It is a witness of the cultural life of the city for more than a century, to be admired from the square and discovered through its programming.

Practical information

The Croatian National Theatre is in the centre of Split. Its façade can be contemplated freely from the square; the hall opens during performances, whose programme is to be consulted on site.

When did the Croatian National Theatre of Split open?

In 1893, under Austro-Hungarian domination; it became a place of affirmation of Croatian culture and language.

What can one see at the Croatian National Theatre?

Operas, ballets and theatre, within a varied programme mixing tradition and modernity.