Ivan Mestrovic Museum, Zagreb

The Museum of Ivan Meštrović is dedicated to preserving, researching, and promoting the life and creations of Ivan Meštrović. It is situated in the very house where the renowned Croatian artist once lived and worked.

Ivan Meštrović was a significant figure in Croatian art during the first half of the 20th century. He excelled in various artistic fields, including sculpture, painting, architecture, and writing. His talents garnered him international recognition, influencing subsequent generations of sculptors and artists. Meštrović's artistic legacy can be found in museums, galleries, and collections worldwide, as well as in public spaces adorned with his monumental statues.

In the 1920s, Ivan Meštrović acquired a plot of land on the Marjan peninsula, west of Split, with the intention of building a summer residence. The construction of this villa took place between 1931 and 1939, following Meštrović's original design, and he was actively involved in overseeing the project. Importantly, he generously bequeathed all his works to the nation.

Aside from exhibiting Meštrović's artworks, the museum also offers insights into the artist's lifestyle. The permanent collection encompasses a diverse array of pieces, including sculptures, drawings, designs, furniture, and architectural works. The holdings include both the original plaster models crafted by the artist and the finished pieces composed of bronze, marble, and wood. The museum spans two floors within the building and extends to an outdoor sculpture park. The artworks are organized thematically rather than chronologically, and they are displayed in a manner that complements the available exhibition space.