Zagreb Set to Unveil Fresh Cultural Destination
The city of Zagreb is undergoing a significant transformation with the €95 million Zagreb Cultural Centre project. This ambitious undertaking involves the renovation of four historic buildings and the construction of two new facilities, covering a total area of 36 thousand square metres [1].
The project, funded by a grant of 40 million euros from the Integrated Territorial Programme 2021-2027, aims to rejuvenate significant cultural heritage sites while adding modern amenities to enhance the city's cultural infrastructure. As of late July 2025, the project is underway, with substantial investments focused on restoring and upgrading the historic buildings [1][3].
One notable aspect of the project is the incorporation of a protected silo, symbolic of Paromlin's industrial heritage, which is already taking on a new, updated look [2]. The project also includes multimedia halls, music studios, a canteen, a public garage, and a city library with a capacity for more than half a million books [1].
The City of Zagreb has taken over the contract to co-finance the transformation of Paromlin, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and revitalising the city's architectural heritage while preparing for new cultural functions. Specific details regarding the names of the buildings or the exact nature of the new facilities have not been provided, but the investment scale and combined approach mark the project as a flagship cultural development for the city [1].
The new cultural centre is currently the largest and most demanding city construction site in Zagreb, reflecting the project's ambitious scope. The final works on the foundations of the new building are currently underway [1][4].
This project aligns with broader urban regeneration goals in Zagreb, as the city continues to restore and utilise architecturally significant sites for cultural and public use. The blend of heritage preservation and modern cultural infrastructure is a testament to Zagreb's commitment to maintaining its rich history while embracing the future [5].
In summary, the Zagreb Cultural Centre project is a significant investment in the city's cultural landscape, combining the renovation of historic buildings with the construction of modern facilities to create a mixed complex that respects Zagreb's architectural traditions and expands cultural offerings [1][3]. The project is progressing according to plan, with a total investment value of €95 million, including VAT.
The Zagreb Cultural Centre project, beyond its cultural amenities like multimedia halls and music studios, also incorporates a lifestyle aspect, envisioning a city library with a capacity for over half a million books, fostering a love for learning and reading in the community. Moreover, the project's integration of modern facilities within historic buildings, such as the repurposed Paromlin silo for fashion-and-beauty or home-and-garden exhibitions, underscores the blending of the city's past, present, and future.
