PHOTOS: Osijek’s Copacabana to reopen following €9 million transformation

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

OSIJEK, 16 February 2026 – Osijek’s iconic Copacabana pool complex is set to welcome visitors back on 1 June this year, marking its 50th anniversary with a fully renovated and expanded facility.

The €9 million redevelopment project, currently in its second phase, is progressing according to plan, city officials confirmed during a site visit on Friday led by Osijek Mayor Ivan Radić and Regional Development and EU Funds Minister Nataša Mikuš Žigman.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Mayor Radić described Copacabana as a symbol of pride for the city.

“Copacabana is the pride of Osijek. Before 2021, the pools were not operational. In just six months in 2022, we completed the first phase of works worth €4.5 million. Osijek gained its first proper Olympic-sized pool, landscaped surroundings, a pool with a water bar, a new plant room and, for the first time, a connection to the public water supply,” he said.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The initial phase restored functionality to the long-standing leisure complex and laid the groundwork for its comprehensive expansion.

Second Phase Underway

The second phase of the project, valued at €9 million, is co-financed through the EU’s Integrated Territorial Investments (ITU) mechanism, with €4 million secured from this source.

Current works include the construction of a children’s pool with shade structures and water attractions, a mixed-use pool featuring a water slide, and a new underground plant room.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The surrounding area will also be significantly enhanced, with plans to plant 200 new trees and 1,800 different plants, further strengthening the site’s appeal as a summer destination.

Upon completion, the complex is expected to offer modern recreational facilities designed to serve both residents and visitors, reinforcing Osijek’s position as a regional centre for sport and leisure.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Mayor Radić highlighted Osijek’s broader success in attracting European Union funding. During the current financial period, the city has €55 million available through the ITU mechanism.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Several projects have already been delivered, including new cycling paths, while others are under implementation. Planned investments include upgrades to the main market, the city library, Zrinjevac Sports Hall and Zrinjevac Park.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“In the past four years, Osijek has consistently ranked among the top cities in Croatia for drawing down EU funds. This year, we are among the top three out of 128 cities nationwide,” Radić stated.

In addition, projects worth more than €50 million are currently underway through Croatia’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan, including the construction of a new school and extensions to 14 schools and sports halls.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Minister Mikuš Žigman emphasised that the Copacabana redevelopment is a strong example of cooperation between the city and the ministry through the ITU mechanism.

“Osijek has an allocation of €55 million, part of which is also directed towards municipalities within the Urban Agglomeration of Osijek. Integrated urban development projects are an approach we will continue to support in the next financial period after 2027,” she said.

With modern facilities, expanded amenities and enhanced green spaces, the rejuvenated complex is set to usher in a new chapter for one of eastern Croatia’s best-known summer landmarks.