Housing the private collection of Ante Topić Mimara, this museum is set in a stunning 1883 neo-Renaissance school building. Inside its galleries are more than 3,750 priceless artworks and objects, from 20,000 B. C. to the 20th century and covering a wide range of regions. Admire Chinese porcelain, Delft pottery and European furniture and inspect masterful artworks from Degas, Manet and others.
The museum was established in 1987 to showcase the collection of wealthy patron Ante Topić Mimara. This passionate Croatian collector, after decades of living abroad, returned to Zagreb in his later life. He donated the collection to the city with the goal of creating a museum. In recent years, the means in which Mimara has amassed the collection has drawn speculation, with many in the art world questioning the authenticity of some of the works. Be aware of this as you wander through the different exhibition rooms.
Stroll through the galleries on the first floor to see a selection of glass, porcelain and other objects from Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Seek out the sculpture exhibits on the second floor, where works by MedardoRosso and FrançoisDuquesnoy are displayed.
On the third floor, find picture galleries, each devoted to a different era. Examine the hanging paintings by Spanish masters, where you’ll find pieces attributed to Velázquez and Goya. Flemish, French and German masters as well as English painters are also represented. Bring along your smartphone and download the free audio-visual guide, which will help you navigate the museum and will expound on the artworks displayed. Free WiFi is available in English.
Take the tram to Marshal Tito Square. You'll find Mimara Museum on nearby Roosevelt Square in central Zagreb. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on public holidays. Opening hours vary depending on the season, so be sure to check in advance.
