Behind Zagreb’s train station, a €95 million transformation is underway

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

ZAGREB, 16 May 2025 – After decades of discussion, Zagreb is finally witnessing tangible progress on one of its most ambitious cultural and infrastructural projects – the revitalisation of the Paromlin complex, located behind the central Zagreb train station, into a state-of-the-art social and cultural centre and new city library.

Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević, accompanied by Deputy Mayors Danijela Dolenec and Luka Korlaet, toured the Paromlin construction site today.

The project, which has been in planning for over 40 years, is now well underway and represents the city’s largest single capital investment, valued at €95 million.

The majority of funding will come from the city’s budget, with €40 million secured through EU funds.

“Paromlin is the largest of Zagreb’s ten major capital projects. Once completed in early 2027, it will provide a unique institution, not just for Zagreb but for the entire region,” said Mayor Tomašević. “It will be something we do not yet have anywhere in Croatia.”

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The extensive redevelopment will cover a 36,000-square-metre site, including the restoration of four historic buildings and the construction of two new facilities.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

These will house library services, multimedia halls for exhibitions and performances, a music department with professional recording studios, a canteen, a public garage with 330 parking spaces, and numerous other public amenities.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The new library will hold over half a million books – all fully accessible to the public for the first time.

“This is a transformation of an entire part of the city,” said Deputy Mayor Luka Korlaet. “The new Paromlin will host social and cultural programming alongside the library’s core functions. It will be much more than a library – it will be a 24/7 cultural hub.”

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

In addition to its scale and cultural significance, Paromlin stands out for its environmental credentials. Mayor Tomašević highlighted that it is the city’s first fully climate-neutral project, meeting the highest standards of sustainability.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The facility will feature a solar power plant integrated into the building and innovative heating and drainage systems.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

Once construction is completed, the space will be outfitted with modern library, multimedia, and performance equipment. The interior will be designed to cater to a wide range of users – from young children and teenagers to people with disabilities.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

With completion set for 2027, Paromlin is poised to become a landmark project for Zagreb, blending historical preservation, modern technology, and inclusive cultural access.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)