Big day for Osijek as iconic Copacabana reopens after €13 million modernisation

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The city of Osijek has officially reopened its famous Copacabana swimming complex following the completion of a major reconstruction project worth €13 million. The reopening coincides with the 50th anniversary of the site’s original opening, marking a significant milestone for one of the city’s most recognisable recreational landmarks.

The upgraded Sports and Recreation Centre Copacabana, widely known locally as “Kopika”, has undergone extensive renovation aimed at modernising facilities, improving sustainability, and enhancing visitor experience.

The €13 million project was co-financed through European Union funds under the ITU mechanism, contributing around €4 million, with additional support from national and city budgets.

The reconstruction included fully renovated swimming pools, the installation of modern water and energy management systems, upgraded promenades, landscaped green areas, and new facilities designed to improve comfort and usability for visitors.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

The site now features a refreshed recreational pool area, a children’s pool with interactive water attractions, and expanded leisure infrastructure. An Olympic-sized swimming pool was also constructed during the first phase of redevelopment.

Further landscaping works are scheduled for completion in the autumn, including lawn planting and the installation of an irrigation system. Around 200 new trees have already been planted across the complex.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

Osijek Mayor Ivan Radić described the reopening as one of the city’s most significant urban renewal projects, emphasising the importance of Copacabana as part of Osijek’s identity and heritage.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

He noted that the site has been a key recreational space for generations, where many residents first learned to swim and spent their summers. The mayor also highlighted that the redevelopment ensures the facility will continue serving future generations for decades to come.

The site had been closed in 2020 before a phased reconstruction process was launched. The first phase included the refurbishment of two pools and the construction of the city’s first Olympic-sized swimming pool.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić praised the project as an important investment in the city’s development and quality of life, noting its strong emotional and cultural significance for residents of Osijek.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

State Secretary at the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds Domagoj Mikulić highlighted the successful cooperation between European, national, and local authorities in delivering the project.

Osijek-Baranja County Prefect Nataša Tramišak added that the renewed facility will strengthen both the quality of life for local residents and the tourism offer of the wider region.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The renovated Copacabana complex opened to the public on Saturday morning, with free entry offered on opening day. The City of Osijek confirmed that ticket prices will remain at last year’s level, ensuring continued accessibility for residents.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

Officials described the reopening as a symbolic moment for the city, marking both the preservation of tradition and the introduction of a modernised, future-focused public space.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)