Rijeka has well and truly come into its own, and a run as Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2020 was very much deserved. However, culture has always played an integral role in everyday life here, and the city’s artistic spirit is visible all over. Rijeka and art are one and the same, but these are the places to seek out something extra special.
Croatian Cultural Centre on Sušak
As you might expect from the name, the Croatian Cultural Centre on Sušak hosts a fabulous range of events throughout the year, from theatre performances and live concerts to in-depth discussions, fascinating festivals and everywhere in between. Several cultural associations call the building home, and the Kortil Gallery is a great artistic exploration for the aesthetically minded. The building itself is intriguing, another point of interest for anyone interested in mid-20th-century architecture.
Filodramatica Gallery
Managed by the Drugo More team since 2014, Rijeka’s gorgeous Filodramatica Gallery is not just an excellent exhibition space but a significant cultural landmark. It spotlights the works of Croatian and international artists, particularly those working in art installations and new media. Six exhibitions take place over the year, and it is always worth checking out the schedule to appreciate the diverse and innovative art on display.
SKC Gallery
Founded in 2013,. Rijeka’s Student Cultural Centre is all about providing opportunities for young people to express themselves, no matter the medium. The city centre gallery is a tremendous vehicle for that art, allowing a new generation of artists to get practical experience in exhibitions and showcases. The art is pretty fantastic in its own right.
OK Gallery
Risen from the ashes in 2023, OK Gallery is a Rijeka icon that brings creativity and passionate people together. The cult gallery was closed for 15 long years, but the wait is over, and Rijeka’s most magnificent independent gallery is very much back on the scene. It can be found in the old Jadran Club on Krešimirova and will continue its legacy through engaging exhibitions and fiercely independent artists. The modern version of OK doubles as a multimedia centre.
Ex Libris Antikvarijat
You can never have enough bookshops, but a bookshop that also hosts occasional jazz performances? Yes, please. Ex Libris Antikvarijat does exactly that, selling a thrilling range of fiction and nonfiction by day and bringing out virtuoso musicians at night, effortlessly blending literature and musical innovation. The bookshop is located on Riva Boduli and advertises its gigs on social media.
Book Caffe Dnevni boravak
The café translation is ‘The Living Room’ and it is in the atmosphere here that does justice to the café’s name. Friendly staff, very unpretentious and occasional live music is a plus. There is a separate room for non-smokers which serves as a gallery.
Devoted to art cinema, Art-kino hosts cycles from the most varied national cinemas and directors. Open-air cinema screenings from June 18th through August 3rd.
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