The Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb is a uniquely emotional and globally acclaimed cultural space dedicated to the remnants of failed love. Housed in the baroque Kulmer Palace in the city’s historic Upper Town, the museum showcases personal objects donated from around the world, each accompanied by a story of heartbreak, loss, or transformation. From a wedding dress to a toaster, these seemingly ordinary items become powerful symbols of human connection and memory. Founded by Olinka Vištica and Dražen Grubišić, the museum began as a traveling exhibition before establishing its permanent home in 2010. It has since won international awards and inspired satellite locations and pop-ups worldwide. Visitors are invited not only to view the collection but also to contribute their own stories, making the museum a living archive of emotional history. With its intimate atmosphere and thought-provoking displays, the Museum of Broken Relationships offers a deeply personal and universally relatable experience in the heart of Zagreb.
Zagreb CroatiaThe Museum of Broken Relationships is permanently located at Ćirilometodska 2, in the baroque Kulmer Palace in Zagreb’s Upper Town, a historic and atmospheric neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and rich concentration of cultural attractions. This area, also called Gornji Grad, is the heart of old Zagreb and is easily accessible on foot from the city center or via public transport. The museum itself is just steps away from St. Mark’s Church, one of Zagreb’s most recognizable landmarks, famous for its colorful tiled roof. Also nearby are the Lotrščak Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Croatian Museum of Naive Art, making this part of the city a hub for history and the arts. The Upper Town is filled with charming cafes and restaurants, so visitors can easily find a place to relax before or after their museum visit. The museum’s own Brokenships Café provides a cozy spot for coffee and reflection, while the surrounding area invites exploration with its mix of monuments, galleries, and other specialty museums. The neighborhood’s compact layout means you can walk to many of Zagreb’s most celebrated sites, including Ban Jelačić Square, the city’s main plaza, and the shortest funicular in the world, which connects the Upper and Lower Towns.