Museum of Contemporary Art

About

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb (MSU) is Croatia’s largest and most modern art institution, located in the Novi Zagreb district. Opened in 2009, the striking building by architect Igor Franić houses over 12,000 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, video, and media art from the mid-20th century to today. Its roots trace back to the City Gallery of Contemporary Art, founded in 1954, which lacked a permanent home until the MSU’s construction. The museum’s permanent exhibition, “Collection as a Verb,” emphasizes art as an evolving process, while temporary shows highlight both Croatian and international artists. Notable features include Carsten Höller’s Double Slide, which visitors can ride from the upper floors, and rooftop installations that blend art with urban views. With its bold architecture, interactive exhibits, and commitment to accessibility, the MSU offers a dynamic space for reflection, experimentation, and cultural dialogue—making it a must-visit for art lovers in Zagreb.

Zagreb Croatia

Location

The Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb (Muzej suvremene umjetnosti, MSU) is located at Avenija Dubrovnik 17, in the Novi Zagreb district, south of the Sava River. This striking modern building, designed by architect Igor Franić, is the largest and most modern museum in Croatia, boasting over 14,000 square meters of space dedicated to contemporary art exhibitions, a library, multimedia hall, bookstore, café, and restaurant. The museum is easily accessible by tram, with lines 6, 7, and 14 stopping nearby, and is about a 20-minute ride from the city center. The surrounding area is characterized by wide boulevards and modern residential and commercial developments, typical of Novi Zagreb’s postwar urban planning. Just across the street is Bundek Park, a popular green space with lakes, walking trails, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for a relaxing stroll before or after your museum visit. The neighborhood features several shopping centers and local eateries, as well as cultural venues like the Zagreb Fairgrounds (Zagrebački Velesajam), which hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year. While the museum is somewhat removed from Zagreb’s historic core, its location in Novi Zagreb offers a different perspective on the city’s urban life and is a gateway to exploring the area’s contemporary architecture and public spaces.