The opening the largest bookstore in Croatia on Friday in Rijeka has brought together numerous book lovers, authors, and distinguished guests.
Today, the new V.B.Z. bookstore was officially opened in the heart of Rijeka, on Korzo 9, in the Karolina Riječka building.
The new V.B.Z. bookstore spans two floors and 1,200 square metres, offering a rich assortment of books across all genres.
Besides a wide selection of local and international titles, visitors can find records and various products for music lovers, as well as souvenirs and crafts from local artists and artisans.
The bookstore is also designed to host exhibitions, literary events, children’s workshops, and presentations, making it a cultural hub in the heart of Rijeka.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Rijeka, Marko Filipović, V.B.Z. Director, Mladen Zatezalo, and Rijeka author, Tea Tulić, the tportal award winner for best novel, with the event moderated by Rijeka multimedia artist Enver Krivac.
Mayor Filipović expressed his delight that Rijeka is becoming a leader in bookselling in the country with this impressive bookstore, which offers over 25,000 titles.
He highlighted that Rijeka has always been known for its rich cultural tradition and is a leader in the country’s reading rates. He thanked V.B.Z. for recognising the importance of Rijeka as a literary and artistic cultural centre.
Director Mladen Zatezalo emphasised that today is a special day for all V.B.Z. employees:
“The opening of this bookstore is the result of many years of work, dedication, and love for books. V.B.Z.’s mission has always been to promote a culture of reading and create a space where ideas meet and grow. V.B.Z.’s goal was to create a place where all book lovers would feel welcome and inspired.” He thanked everyone who contributed to the realisation of this project, especially the City of Rijeka.
Attendees at the bookstore opening included former Mayor Vojko Obersnel, Rijeka authors Željka Horvat Čeč, Vlado Simcich Vava, Zoran Žmirić, cultural workers Gordana Brkić Žagar, Mladen Urem, Damir Bralić, theatre artist Denis Kirinčić, and many others.
On Monday, 8th July, at 7:30 p.m., the bookstore will host its first major author, Bosnian-American writer Aleksandar Hemon, who will present his new novel “Bejturan and the Rose.” This event marks the beginning of a series of literary and cultural activities that will be regularly held at the bookstore.
The V.B.Z. bookstore in Rijeka is becoming a new gathering place for all literature and culture enthusiasts, open to all visitors who wish to enjoy a rich selection of books and participate in various cultural events.