Archaeological Museum, Zagreb

The Archaeological Museum in Zagreb is home to an extensive collection of over 450,000 diverse artifacts and monuments. These items have been acquired from various sources, with a significant portion originating from Croatia, particularly the areas surrounding Zagreb. The institution's predecessor was known as the "National Museum" during the time of the Austrian Empire, and it opened its doors to the public back in 1846. In 1866, it was renamed as the "State Institute of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia."

In 1878, the Archaeological Department gained independence as a separate institution within the State Institute. Eventually, in 1939, the overarching State Institute was dissolved, and the Archaeological Museum continued as an independent entity.

The archaeological collection of the State Institute was initially housed in the Academy mansion at Zrinski Square starting in the 1880s. It remained there until 1945 when the museum relocated to its current location at the Vranyczany-Hafner mansion, a 19th-century building situated at 19 Zrinski Square.

The museum is organized into five primary sections, which include Prehistory, Egypt, Antiquity, Middle Ages, and Coins and Medals. The "Prehistory" section boasts a collection of 78,000 objects spanning from the Paleolithic to the Late Iron Age. In the "Egypt" section, approximately 600 objects are on display in the permanent exhibition. The "Antiquity" section is notable for its extensive collection of Greek vases, totaling around 1,500 vessels, as well as inscribed stones. The Roman Antiquity section features numerous statues, military equipment, metal artifacts, and items related to Roman religion, art, and everyday life. These items were found in archaeological digs across Croatia, including Roman-era cities. The museum also boasts a vast European coin collection.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum has an excellent collection of Roman and Egyptian artifacts. Make sure to check out the world-famous 'Zagreb Mummy'.