The Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc is the central theatre institution of Rijeka and one of the most important national theatres in Croatia. The current theatre building was opened in 1885 and designed by Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, renowned for creating numerous theatre buildings across Europe. The theatre is named after composer Ivan pl. Zajc, one of the most significant Croatian composers and reformers of the national music scene. HNK Ivana pl. Zajca operates through opera, ballet, and drama ensembles performing in both Croatian and Italian, continuing Rijeka’s long multicultural and artistic tradition. Over the years, the theatre has hosted many domestic and international artists while developing a rich repertoire of classical and contemporary productions. In addition to its performance programme, the theatre plays an important role in Rijeka’s cultural life through festivals, guest performances, educational programmes, and international collaborations. Today, it remains one of the city’s leading venues for performing arts and cultural events.