Croatian Coral Center Zlarin
Zlarin, a protected cultural heritage site, is one of the 53 inhabited Croatian islands. It has fewer than 300 residents in the winter. It once depended on a centuries-old red coral harvesting tradition that shaped its economy and identity. When coral became a strictly protected species in the Adriatic and harvesting ceased, the island faced depopulation and the gradual loss of local memory.
The Croatian Coral Center Zlarin opened in 2023. The EU project, with a total value of EUR 3.2 million, was applied for and implemented by the City of Šibenik, representing one of the largest investments in cultural heritage on Croatia’s islands. The Center is managed by the Public institution Fortress of Culture
The center is housed in two traditional buildings, Kažerma and Šare, along with the surrounding stone streets and a 420-metre access road that links the port to the town. During restoration works, a historic wall fresco and remains of a 1st-century shipwreck were uncovered, conserved and integrated into the exhibition. Kažerma now hosts a permanent interpretation centre dedicated to coral heritage and marine biodiversity. Šare functions as a socio-cultural ‘living hub’, offering space for researchers, artists and local associations throughout the year.
Visitors explore coral traditions and marine ecosystems through augmented and virtual reality, interactive displays and tactile elements. The kinetic installation “Shared Breath” activates when visitors blow into a sensor, highlighting the vital link between the sea and the air we breathe. Guided tours for international visitors and school groups from across Croatia connect coral heritage with themes such as rising sea temperatures, invasive species and marine pollution. Work is also underway on a digital archive that will bring together historical sources and recordings related to Zlarin’s coral tradition.
Since opening, the Croatian Coral Center Zlarin has welcomed over 35,000 visitors. More than 200 cultural events, including workshops, lectures, concerts and film screenings, engaged close to 5,000 participants, particularly during pre- and post-season months. These activities resulted in a 20% increase in arrivals and a 16% rise in overnight stays on the island, demonstrating that investment in culture can have a tangible economic and social impact.
The center operates year-round and works closely with local associations, schools and cultural groups. Local residents were trained to guide visitors. Facilities are fully accessible, with a stair-climbing device for wheelchair users, tactile markings, audio guides and trained staff. The Center’s souvenir shop offers locally made and eco-friendly products.
The Awards’ Jury highlighted: “The distinctive focus of the Croatian Coral Center Zlarin on coral heritage is grounded in careful research and effectively communicated through strong outreach. Particularly impressive is the scale of impact for such a small island community: the center operates year-round, supports sustainable local development and offers a model that could inspire similar initiatives on small islands across Europe.”
Contact: Katarina Gregov | Public institution Fortress of Culture Šibenik | katarina.gregov@tvrdjava-kulture.hr | www.hckz.hr