Museum of Broken Relationships - a man and a woman standing in front of a circular room
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Museum of Broken Relationships

4.3
·8k reviews·Zagreb, Croatia

A poignant museum showcasing personal objects and stories from failed relationships, offering a unique space for reflection and catharsis.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection time

CrowdLow
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Museum of Broken Relationships - a man and a woman standing in front of a circular room

Museum of Broken Relationships

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant museum showcasing personal objects and stories from failed relationships, offering a unique space for reflection and catharsis.

4.3
(8k reviews)

"An amazing museum. The stories really cut through. Some of them were funny but a lot of them were emotional and really touching."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Tissues! 😥

Some stories are incredibly touching and may bring you to tears. Be prepared for an emotional experience.

Read Everything You Can 📖

The power of this museum lies in the stories. Take your time to read each one; they are often short but impactful.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sweater of Indecision

The Sweater of Indecision

A poignant exhibit exploring the 'sweater curse,' a symbol of lingering indecision and unresolved feelings in relationships.

Reddit
Personal Artifacts & Stories

Personal Artifacts & Stories

Everyday objects, from love letters to a toaster, each with a powerful, personal narrative of love and loss.

Reddit
The 'Wall of Tears'

The 'Wall of Tears'

A space dedicated to anonymous confessions and reflections, offering a collective catharsis for visitors.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for an Emotional Journey

This museum is a unique experience that delves into the raw emotions of heartbreak. Be ready for a mix of laughter and tears as you read personal stories. It's a deeply moving place that resonates with many visitors.

Allocate Ample Time for Reflection

Don't rush your visit. The Museum of Broken Relationships is packed with stories that invite contemplation. Allow at least 1.5 hours to truly absorb the exhibits and connect with the narratives. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection time
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Quieter atmosphere for contemplation
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

The sweater curse makes an appearance in the Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb

Bring Tissues! 😥

Some stories are incredibly touching and may bring you to tears. Be prepared for an emotional experience. Reddit

Read Everything You Can 📖

The power of this museum lies in the stories. Take your time to read each one; they are often short but impactful. Reddit

reddit.com

TIL There is a Museum of Broken Relationships in Croatia; you can go and leave there personal objects left by former lovers, accompanied by brief descriptions.

reddit.com

The WiFi password at the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia.

Reflect on Your Own Heartbreak ❤️‍🩹

The exhibits often mirror personal experiences, offering a unique space for self-reflection and catharsis. Reddit

Visit the Cafe & Shop ☕

After an emotional journey, relax at the cafe or find a unique souvenir in the shop. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Tissues! 😥

Some stories are incredibly touching and may bring you to tears. Be prepared for an emotional experience. Reddit

Read Everything You Can 📖

The power of this museum lies in the stories. Take your time to read each one; they are often short but impactful. Reddit

Reflect on Your Own Heartbreak ❤️‍🩹

The exhibits often mirror personal experiences, offering a unique space for self-reflection and catharsis. Reddit

Visit the Cafe & Shop ☕

After an emotional journey, relax at the cafe or find a unique souvenir in the shop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Broken Relationships for its unique concept and deeply emotional impact, describing it as a must-visit in Zagreb. The personal stories are lauded for being touching, funny, and heartbreaking, offering a profound sense of connection and catharsis. The kind staff and pleasant cafe also add to the positive experience, making it a highly recommended destination.

"An amazing museum. The stories really cut through. Some of them were funny but a lot of them were emotional and really touching. It certainly brings back memories and/or a way to feel things buried deep. Such a beautiful idea and the contributions were just superb. The staff were just lovely too! Well done all!!"

Nick Osborn

"A must-go museum that displays an array of relics of lost and broken love. Reading various related stories was so interesting, and I had a very impressive time there. The clerks inside were so kind, and they had a decent souvenir shop and an inside café to chill myself after passing through a lot of heartbreaking stories. If I could, I would rate this place 6 out of 5 stars."

Garam Lee

"What a fantastic idea for a museum! So glad our walking tour guide recommended this. It was sad, funny, emotional and heartbreaking as well as some heart warming stories. Definitely a must see in Zagreb."

Samantha Wolfsbauer

What People Like

Unique and moving concept
Touching personal stories
Emotional catharsis

What People Dislike

Can be emotionally intense

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is centrally located in Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad), easily accessible by foot from the main Ban Jelačić Square. You can also take the Funicular Railway or a short taxi ride. Reddit

The museum is housed in a historic building, and accessibility can be challenging. It's best to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility for visitors with mobility issues. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official museum website for the most current information before your visit. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the exhibits. Always check for specific signage or ask staff if unsure. Reddit

While the museum's themes are about relationships and heartbreak, many visitors find it suitable for older teens who can understand and process the emotional content. It's a personal decision based on your child's maturity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are reasonable and offer great value for the unique experience. Check the official website for current admission fees and potential discounts. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, can save you time and guarantee entry. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter or check the museum's website for details. Reddit

Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the museum directly for specific information. Reddit

Some attractions offer discounts or free entry with a Zagreb Card. It's worth checking if the Museum of Broken Relationships is included in the card's benefits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and read the stories. Some may linger longer for deeper reflection. Reddit

The museum displays personal objects donated by people worldwide, each accompanied by a brief, often poignant, story about a past relationship. Reddit

While not traditionally interactive with buttons and screens, the museum is highly engaging through its personal narratives and the emotional connection it fosters with visitors. Reddit

Guided tours may be offered, especially for groups. Inquire at the museum or check their website for availability and booking information. Reddit

The museum thrives on public contributions. Visitors can donate objects that represent a broken relationship, along with their story, to become part of the collection. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum has a charming cafe and bar where you can relax, have a drink, or a light snack after your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically offers coffee, drinks, and light refreshments. It's a great spot to process the exhibits or take a break. Reddit

The museum is located in Zagreb's Upper Town, which is filled with numerous restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition areas. It's best to consume them before entering or at the designated cafe. Reddit

Often, museum cafes are accessible to the public, but it's advisable to confirm this with the museum directly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, personal photography is usually permitted, but flash is often prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage. Reddit

While most areas allow personal photos, some exhibits might have restrictions. It's best to be mindful of any posted signs or ask staff. Reddit

Many visitors find the unique objects and the intimate displays themselves to be highly photogenic. The 'Wall of Tears' can also be a powerful visual. Reddit

Professional shoots typically require prior permission from the museum. Contact their administration for inquiries and booking. Reddit

Sharing personal photos on social media is generally encouraged, as it helps spread awareness of this unique museum. Tagging the museum is a nice gesture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Teens

The Museum of Broken Relationships offers a unique and thought-provoking experience for families with older teenagers. The exhibits, while dealing with mature themes of heartbreak and loss, are presented in a way that can spark meaningful conversations about relationships, empathy, and emotional resilience. Reddit It's a chance for teens to see that relationship struggles are a universal part of the human experience. Encourage them to read the stories and share their thoughts, fostering a deeper understanding of emotional intelligence. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:
* Prepare them: Briefly explain the museum's concept beforehand so they know what to expect.
* Encourage reading: The power is in the stories; ensure they take the time to read them.
* Discuss afterward: Use the cafe as a space to talk about what they saw and felt. Reddit

❤️ Couples

While the museum's name might suggest it's only for the heartbroken, couples can find this museum surprisingly insightful. It offers a unique perspective on the complexities of relationships, the reasons they end, and the lessons learned. Reddit It can be a conversation starter, prompting discussions about your own relationship dynamics and shared experiences. The blend of humor and poignancy can lead to shared laughter and moments of quiet understanding. Reddit

Tips for couples:
* Go with an open mind: Approach the exhibits with curiosity rather than apprehension.
* Share your reactions: Discuss the stories that resonate with you both.
* Enjoy the cafe: Use the post-visit cafe time to reflect together. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, the Museum of Broken Relationships is an exceptionally powerful and introspective experience. It provides a space for deep personal reflection, allowing you to connect with the universal themes of love, loss, and resilience on your own terms. Reddit You can immerse yourself in the stories at your own pace, finding comfort in shared human experiences or gaining new perspectives on your own emotional journey. Reddit

Solo traveler advice:
* Embrace the introspection: Allow yourself to feel and reflect.
* Read at your leisure: There's no rush; savor the narratives.
* Visit the cafe: A perfect spot for quiet contemplation after the exhibits. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Philosophy Behind the Museum

The Museum of Broken Relationships is more than just a collection of objects; it's a testament to the universal experience of love, loss, and healing. Founded by artists Dražen Grubišić and Olinka Vištica, the museum began as a response to their own breakup and the desire to find a way to process the emotional residue of failed relationships. Reddit The core idea is that even mundane objects can carry profound emotional weight, serving as anchors to memories and catalysts for understanding. Each donated item, from a simple teddy bear to a discarded wedding dress, tells a story of human connection and its eventual unraveling. This shared vulnerability creates a powerful sense of community among visitors, who often find their own experiences reflected in the exhibits. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to not only observe but also to reflect on their own past relationships. The museum provides a safe space to confront feelings of sadness, anger, or nostalgia, and to ultimately find a sense of closure or catharsis. The contributions are a mix of the humorous, the heartbreaking, and the mundane, showcasing the diverse ways relationships end and the unique artifacts they leave behind. This approach makes the museum incredibly relatable and deeply personal for everyone who walks through its doors. Reddit

Navigating the Emotional Landscape

Visiting the Museum of Broken Relationships can be an emotionally charged experience. While many exhibits are lighthearted and even humorous, others delve into deep sadness and pain. It's important to approach the museum with an open mind and a willingness to engage with these complex emotions. Reddit Many visitors report feeling a strong connection to the stories, often recalling their own past heartbreaks. This can be a cathartic experience, allowing for a release of pent-up emotions. However, if you are going through a particularly difficult time, consider if this is the right experience for you at that moment. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, take your time reading the accompanying narratives. These stories are the heart of the museum and provide the context for each object. Don't feel pressured to rush; allow yourself to absorb the atmosphere and the shared human experience. The museum's cafe offers a perfect spot to decompress afterward, perhaps with a coffee or a quiet moment of reflection. Reddit The staff are also known for their kindness and understanding, so don't hesitate to speak with them if you need anything. Reddit

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