Opatija at MEETEX 2026: new contacts and a stronger congress offering
The Croatian Music Institute (HGZ), Croatia’s first concert hall and a symbol of Zagreb’s musical and social scene, is in the final phase of a comprehensive structural and energy renovation. This is one of the most complex and significant cultural heritage restoration projects in Zagreb, with an importance that extends far beyond the repair of a building damaged in the earthquake.
HGZ is returning in a completely new format – as a contemporary, multifunctional venue open not only to music programmes, but also to congresses, conferences, business gatherings and special events. Its restoration and expansion bring Zagreb a new generation of event spaces that combine historic character, modern technology and flexibility.
In the coming months, conservation work, interior and façade works, technical installations and final equipment throughout the building will be completed. The full renovation includes repairing earthquake damage and reinforcing the structure, with special emphasis placed on preserving the characteristics of this protected cultural property while also adapting the building to contemporary technical, energy and programming standards.
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New spaces are reshaping the perception of HGZ
The renovation plan introduces new spaces that significantly expand the building’s potential uses. One particularly notable addition is a narrative space integrated into the walls on all floors, designed as a permanent interpretive layer of HGZ’s history and activity. On the ground floor, a café is being created as an open, city-facing space connected to everyday urban life, making HGZ a lively meeting place rather than only a concert destination.
On the second floor, two dormitory rooms are planned for visiting soloists, while the attic is being transformed into a completely new amphitheatre-style multimedia hall with an accompanying foyer intended for receptions, networking events and special programmes.
The attic multimedia hall – a technological step forward for new formats
Before the renovation, the attic was not functional, and the earthquake caused additional damage to the roof. To activate the space fully, the attic was partially raised and fitted with a contemporary glass interpolation that runs almost the entire length of the building. This created a spacious foyer leading into the hall.
The new hall is designed in amphitheatre style, with the audience area descending towards the stage positioned at the level of the building’s third floor. It will have around 150 fixed seats and will be equipped with a state-of-the-art digital acoustics system. Such a system allows the simulation of different acoustic environments – from an intimate chamber hall to large sacred or open spaces – opening the door to multimedia presentations, conferences, panels, hybrid events and creative event formats.
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HGZ as a new address for congresses and business events in Zagreb
All spaces within the Croatian Music Institute will be available for business, congress and special events, either individually or through the rental of the entire building.
In the basement there is a smaller hall with capacity for around 60 people, ideal for workshops, meetings or closed sessions. The ground floor includes the café, library, office areas and cloakrooms for visitors. On the first floor are the ceremonial halls: the large hall, which depending on the setup can accommodate up to 350 people, and the smaller hall connected to it, but separable, with capacity for up to 180 people.
The second floor is intended for event preparation spaces, including a box with a view over the large hall. On the third floor are the musicians’ areas and the stage of the new multimedia hall, while the attic contains the foyer for receptions and the entrance to the new hall.
The building is equipped with a lift and an additional staircase, ensuring easier access to all levels. High-quality sound insulation enables several events to take place simultaneously, which is especially important for larger events and more complex productions.
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Opening in early 2027 – bookings already open
The restored HGZ brings Zagreb a blend of historical authenticity and contemporary infrastructure. For event organisers, it offers a venue with a strong identity, a prestigious address and a high level of technical equipment – a combination increasingly sought after by international clients.
The opening is planned for January 2027, and presentations of the space as well as advance reservations can already be arranged. For organisers, this means an opportunity to secure dates early at one of Zagreb’s most anticipated new event venues.
