Croatian National Theatre Varaždin

The first theatrical performances in Varaždin were organized in the Jesuit high school at the beginning of the 17th century and performances thereafter took place in a variety of locations within the town. In 1869, the city of Varaždin decided to construct a purpose-built modern theatre with its own money. The following year, the city initiated a competition for the building design which was won by young Viennese architect Hermann Helmer. Helmer designed a building to house not only a theatre but also a concert hall, restaurant and cafe, reading rooms and several apartments. Then at the start of his career, his success with the theatre enabled him to design another 47 theatres over the course of his career. The theatre today holds mostly drama performances, but many notable musical performances also take place here.