June the 12th, 2026 – Split is planning to construct a brand new Homeland War Museum, located next to the famous Poljud Stadium.
It seems that Split could soon become home to a major new cultural and memorial institution after plans were announced for a new building for the Homeland War Museum near Poljud Stadium. The move would create what supporters describe as a long-term educational and historical centre on Croatia’s struggle for independence for future generations.
According to plans presented during discussions at City Council level, the proposed new museum complex would be developed in the area between Poljud and the nearby educational zone, with the project receiving support from the Ministry of Croatian Veterans. The ministry is expected to act as a partner in the implementation phase.
The planned facility would significantly expand the current capacities of the Split Homeland War Museum and move beyond the traditional idea of a museum as simply an exhibition space and little else. Current concepts envision approximately 2,000 square metres dedicated to permanent and temporary exhibitions, accompanied by additional facilities including educational areas, a library, public spaces, and areas intended for veterans’ associations. Plans also include the permanent display of military equipment and aircraft connected to Croatia’s modern military history.
Supporters argue that the location near Poljud makes plenty of strategic sense. Beyond mere accessibility, the area sits relatively close to military and public infrastructure and could become part of a wider cultural and educational corridor within the city itself.
The current proposal also includes a broader exchange model: land currently linked to educational use would be made available for the museum project, while new sports facilities would be developed in return for the school community connected to the site. The next stage of the project is expected to focus on architecture and the actual complex’s design. A public competition for the future appearance of the building is planned for later this year, while construction is currently expected to begin during 2027 if timelines remain on schedule.
This latest announcement reflects a wider trend visible across Croatia, where museums are increasingly being designed not only as places to preserve artefacts and view pieces of history, but as public spaces intended for education, dialogue, and community use.
If the complex ends up being completed as planned, the new Split Homeland War Museum would become one of Split’s most significant cultural infrastructure projects in recent years, and a new addition to a city better known internationally for football, tourism, and Roman history than for modern historical institutions.
