Amphorarium
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"Amphorarium: Where Murter’s Story Flows Through Time"
In the heart of Murter, Amphorarium is a visitor center and cultural hub, housed in a centuries-old cistern. The amphora, a timeless vessel, symbolizes the island’s rich history, maritime heritage, and enduring traditions. Through immersive exhibitions, storytelling, and hands-on workshops, Amphorarium extends Murter’s cultural life beyond summer, fostering connection, creativity, and a deep sense of belonging for locals and visitors alike.
In the heart of Murter, Amphorarium is a visitor center and cultural hub, housed in a centuries-old cistern. The amphora, a timeless vessel, symbolizes the island’s rich history, maritime heritage, and enduring traditions. Through immersive exhibitions, storytelling, and hands-on workshops, Amphorarium extends Murter’s cultural life beyond summer, fostering connection, creativity, and a deep sense of belonging for locals and visitors alike.
Croatia
Butina 2, 22243 Murter-Kornati, Croatia
Prototype level
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
ERDF : European Regional Development Fund
Integrated Territorial Program 2021-2027 (ITP)
As part of the Cohesion Policy in the Republic of Croatia for the 2021-2027 European Union financial period, the European Commission approved the Integrated Territorial Program 2021-2027 (ITP) on December 2, 2022. This program includes the use of the European Regional Development Fund and the Just Transition Fund.
Within the ITP, islands are included under the "Smart and Sustainable Island Development" priority, specifically under Specific Objective 5.2: Promoting integrated and inclusive social and economic development, local development in the areas of environment, culture, natural heritage, sustainable tourism, and safety in non-urban areas. This approach further strengthens the importance of island development policy in Croatia.
The ITP is designed to address the specific challenges and needs of Croatian islands, applying a multi-thematic and multi-sectoral approach to island development across all seven coastal-island counties.
Funding Allocation for Islands
A total allocation of €150 million is planned under the ITP for the development of Croatian islands, focusing on the following key areas:
Revitalization of public and community infrastructure, including both open and closed spaces, and other infrastructure for public use.
Investment in the restoration and revitalization of cultural heritage sites, as well as cultural and tourist locations, including the valorization and digitalization of movable cultural heritage on the islands.
Development of green and blue infrastructure and strengthening the capacity and operational readiness of civil protection and firefighting services, with an emphasis on establishing and improving monitoring systems to reduce risks of fires and disasters.
Investments in energy efficiency and promoting the use of renewable energy sources in infrastructure projects.
Development of business infrastructure, including the construction or renovation of business zones and entrepreneurial support institutions (such as incubators and co-working spaces).
Implementation of the ITP on Islands
A key prerequisite for the implementation of the ITP on the islands is the development of Territorial Strategies (TS), which are led by the coastal-island counties. Each county is responsible for developing a TS for its island area, as an addition to its county development plan.
Island stakeholders participate in the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of Territorial Strategies through a working group (Island Partnership), ensuring a participatory and bottom-up approach in addressing local island development challenges.
Based on an analysis of development needs and potential in each island area, the TS will define the final investment priorities to be funded through the ITP. Once the territorial strategies are finalized and agreements between the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds (MRRFEU) and the counties are signed, calls for project proposals will be announced.
Example of ITP-funded project: Amphorarium in Murter Kornati
Based on the call for project proposals under the ITP for islands in Šibenik-Knin County, the Municipality of Murter Kornati applied with the Amphorarium project, which has been approved for funding.
In February this year, the Municipality of Murter Kornati was granted €4.47 million for the Amphorarium project, with 85% (€3.8 million) covered by the program and the remaining 15% co-financed by the municipality over the next two years.
The municipality has received the official Funding Decision, and the project construction is set to begin in March this year.
As part of the Cohesion Policy in the Republic of Croatia for the 2021-2027 European Union financial period, the European Commission approved the Integrated Territorial Program 2021-2027 (ITP) on December 2, 2022. This program includes the use of the European Regional Development Fund and the Just Transition Fund.
Within the ITP, islands are included under the "Smart and Sustainable Island Development" priority, specifically under Specific Objective 5.2: Promoting integrated and inclusive social and economic development, local development in the areas of environment, culture, natural heritage, sustainable tourism, and safety in non-urban areas. This approach further strengthens the importance of island development policy in Croatia.
The ITP is designed to address the specific challenges and needs of Croatian islands, applying a multi-thematic and multi-sectoral approach to island development across all seven coastal-island counties.
Funding Allocation for Islands
A total allocation of €150 million is planned under the ITP for the development of Croatian islands, focusing on the following key areas:
Revitalization of public and community infrastructure, including both open and closed spaces, and other infrastructure for public use.
Investment in the restoration and revitalization of cultural heritage sites, as well as cultural and tourist locations, including the valorization and digitalization of movable cultural heritage on the islands.
Development of green and blue infrastructure and strengthening the capacity and operational readiness of civil protection and firefighting services, with an emphasis on establishing and improving monitoring systems to reduce risks of fires and disasters.
Investments in energy efficiency and promoting the use of renewable energy sources in infrastructure projects.
Development of business infrastructure, including the construction or renovation of business zones and entrepreneurial support institutions (such as incubators and co-working spaces).
Implementation of the ITP on Islands
A key prerequisite for the implementation of the ITP on the islands is the development of Territorial Strategies (TS), which are led by the coastal-island counties. Each county is responsible for developing a TS for its island area, as an addition to its county development plan.
Island stakeholders participate in the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of Territorial Strategies through a working group (Island Partnership), ensuring a participatory and bottom-up approach in addressing local island development challenges.
Based on an analysis of development needs and potential in each island area, the TS will define the final investment priorities to be funded through the ITP. Once the territorial strategies are finalized and agreements between the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds (MRRFEU) and the counties are signed, calls for project proposals will be announced.
Example of ITP-funded project: Amphorarium in Murter Kornati
Based on the call for project proposals under the ITP for islands in Šibenik-Knin County, the Municipality of Murter Kornati applied with the Amphorarium project, which has been approved for funding.
In February this year, the Municipality of Murter Kornati was granted €4.47 million for the Amphorarium project, with 85% (€3.8 million) covered by the program and the remaining 15% co-financed by the municipality over the next two years.
The municipality has received the official Funding Decision, and the project construction is set to begin in March this year.
No
06173: Murter - Kornati (HR)
The Amphorarium is a dual-purpose cultural hub and heritage interpretation center, designed by the Municipality of Murter-Kornati, transforming a centuries-old Roman cistern into a modern, three-story, 625 m² facility. It preserves Murter’s identity while fostering creativity, education, and year-round cultural engagement. Designed with NEB principles, it blends aesthetics, sustainability, and accessibility to protect Murter’s uniqueness from the homogenization caused by commercialization and mass tourism.
Target Groups: Local residents, including artisans, historians, and educators, engaging in exhibitions, workshops, and cult. events; Tourists and heritage enthusiasts, drawn to Murter’s history, archaeology, and immersive storytelling; Pupils, students and young people, benefiting from interactive digital exhibitions and educational programs; Vulnerable groups, supported by Braille signage, multilingual guides, tactile paths, and barrier-free access.
The Amphorarium includes: A subterranean exhibition in the historic cistern, featuring VR-enhanced underwater archaeology experiences; A ground-floor cultural hub with a multipurpose event space, info desk, and shop for local artisans; An upper-floor interactive exhibition, using AI and digital storytelling to explore Murter’s heritage; A Mediterranean-inspired plaza (1,055 m²) for cultural performances, workshops, and artisan markets; The building’s design evokes amphorae and traditional shipbuilding, incorporating sustainable materials, ventilated facades, and rainwater collection for irrigation.
Expected Outcomes: A year-round cultural hub, reducing seasonality and expanding Murter’s tourism offerings; 10,000 annual visitors, boosting opportunities for local businesses and artisans; 24 cultural events and 18 educational workshops annually, strengthening community identity; A replicable model for sustainable heritage revitalization, ensuring Murter’s long-term resilience.
Target Groups: Local residents, including artisans, historians, and educators, engaging in exhibitions, workshops, and cult. events; Tourists and heritage enthusiasts, drawn to Murter’s history, archaeology, and immersive storytelling; Pupils, students and young people, benefiting from interactive digital exhibitions and educational programs; Vulnerable groups, supported by Braille signage, multilingual guides, tactile paths, and barrier-free access.
The Amphorarium includes: A subterranean exhibition in the historic cistern, featuring VR-enhanced underwater archaeology experiences; A ground-floor cultural hub with a multipurpose event space, info desk, and shop for local artisans; An upper-floor interactive exhibition, using AI and digital storytelling to explore Murter’s heritage; A Mediterranean-inspired plaza (1,055 m²) for cultural performances, workshops, and artisan markets; The building’s design evokes amphorae and traditional shipbuilding, incorporating sustainable materials, ventilated facades, and rainwater collection for irrigation.
Expected Outcomes: A year-round cultural hub, reducing seasonality and expanding Murter’s tourism offerings; 10,000 annual visitors, boosting opportunities for local businesses and artisans; 24 cultural events and 18 educational workshops annually, strengthening community identity; A replicable model for sustainable heritage revitalization, ensuring Murter’s long-term resilience.
Heritage preservation
Cultural identity
Community engagement
Sustainable tourism
Inclusive design
The Amphorarium is a model for sustainable cultural revitalization, aligning with NEB principles and Do No Significant Harm compliance.
The project constructs a three-story facility on the foundations of an old Roman cistern, ensuring adaptive reuse while integrating sustainable building, operations, and resource efficiency.
Sustainable Construction: Construction follows green public procurement guidelines, prioritizing eco-certified materials, recyclable steel, and non-hazardous finishes. 70% of non-hazardous construction waste will be recycled or repurposed, minimizing landfill impact. Locally sourced materials reduce transport emissions, while solar panels lower CO₂ dependency. Water-efficient devices (EU water label certified) will cut consumption, and a rainwater collection system will irrigate the Mediterranean garden, promoting resource conservation.
Climate Adaptation & Energy Efficiency: A climate risk assessment identified heat waves, droughts, and rising sea levels as long-term challenges. In response, the center integrates high-performance insulation, ventilated façades, and energy-efficient HVAC with heat pumps to reduce cooling demand. LED lighting, smart shading, and automated energy monitoring systems ensure optimized energy consumption, while eco-conscious landscaping enhances resilience.
Eco-Friendly Equipment & Waste Management: At least 70% of furniture and equipment will comply with EU sustainability standards, including:
Energy-efficient multimedia systems, VR installations, and digital visitor guides, minimizing electricity use. Eco-certified furniture made from sustainable materials, ensuring durability. Smart waste sorting stations and digital-first content, reducing landfill waste and paper use.
By embedding sustainability at every level, Amphorarium sets a new standard for climate-conscious heritage interpretation, demonstrating that tradition, innovation and environmental responsibility can thrive together.
The project constructs a three-story facility on the foundations of an old Roman cistern, ensuring adaptive reuse while integrating sustainable building, operations, and resource efficiency.
Sustainable Construction: Construction follows green public procurement guidelines, prioritizing eco-certified materials, recyclable steel, and non-hazardous finishes. 70% of non-hazardous construction waste will be recycled or repurposed, minimizing landfill impact. Locally sourced materials reduce transport emissions, while solar panels lower CO₂ dependency. Water-efficient devices (EU water label certified) will cut consumption, and a rainwater collection system will irrigate the Mediterranean garden, promoting resource conservation.
Climate Adaptation & Energy Efficiency: A climate risk assessment identified heat waves, droughts, and rising sea levels as long-term challenges. In response, the center integrates high-performance insulation, ventilated façades, and energy-efficient HVAC with heat pumps to reduce cooling demand. LED lighting, smart shading, and automated energy monitoring systems ensure optimized energy consumption, while eco-conscious landscaping enhances resilience.
Eco-Friendly Equipment & Waste Management: At least 70% of furniture and equipment will comply with EU sustainability standards, including:
Energy-efficient multimedia systems, VR installations, and digital visitor guides, minimizing electricity use. Eco-certified furniture made from sustainable materials, ensuring durability. Smart waste sorting stations and digital-first content, reducing landfill waste and paper use.
By embedding sustainability at every level, Amphorarium sets a new standard for climate-conscious heritage interpretation, demonstrating that tradition, innovation and environmental responsibility can thrive together.
Stepping into Amphorarium feels like entering a living story where past and future intertwine. Designed as a seamless blend of history and innovation, the center is built atop a centuries-old Roman cistern, its original stone walls preserved and contrasted with a striking steel superstructure. The perforated steel beams evoke traditional shipbuilding, reinforcing the maritime identity of Murter, while the elevated walkways protect the cistern’s historic integrity.
Descending into the immersive exhibition space, visitors experience a simulated underwater journey, where soft lighting, maritime soundscapes, and the scent of aged wood and salt recreate the atmosphere of a sunken shipwreck carrying amphorae. Smart lighting adapts to different narratives, shifting between historical reconstructions and contemporary digital storytelling.
Outside, the open-air amphitheater and central Mediterranean plaza, shaded by over 20 newly planted trees, serve as vibrant community spaces. Designed in the spirit of a Dalmatian marketplace, the plaza hosts local artisans, seasonal festivals, and cultural events, ensuring that Amphorarium is not just a museum, but a dynamic, inclusive cultural hub.
The entire structure is designed with aesthetics, sustainability, and inclusivity at its core, creating an emotional and educational connection between visitors and Murter’s living heritage.
Descending into the immersive exhibition space, visitors experience a simulated underwater journey, where soft lighting, maritime soundscapes, and the scent of aged wood and salt recreate the atmosphere of a sunken shipwreck carrying amphorae. Smart lighting adapts to different narratives, shifting between historical reconstructions and contemporary digital storytelling.
Outside, the open-air amphitheater and central Mediterranean plaza, shaded by over 20 newly planted trees, serve as vibrant community spaces. Designed in the spirit of a Dalmatian marketplace, the plaza hosts local artisans, seasonal festivals, and cultural events, ensuring that Amphorarium is not just a museum, but a dynamic, inclusive cultural hub.
The entire structure is designed with aesthetics, sustainability, and inclusivity at its core, creating an emotional and educational connection between visitors and Murter’s living heritage.
From design to programming, Amphorarium embodies inclusion at every level. Unlike many interpretation centers that primarily cater to tourists, Amphorarium is both a visitor and a cultural hub for the local community, ensuring that residents, not just visitors, have access to its space and programs year-round.
Universal Accessibility & Inclusive Infrastructure
The entire space is fully accessible, with step-free access, wide walkways, and a lift connecting all levels. Exhibition content includes Braille descriptions, multilingual audio guides, and hands-on storytelling elements, ensuring diverse learning experiences for children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Technology such as interactive VR installations further enhances inclusivity, offering alternative ways to experience cultural heritage.
The outdoor Mediterranean garden, inspired by the traditional Dalmatian “pijaca” (marketplace), serves as a community gathering space, hosting local festivals, artisanal markets, and cultural events. Local artisans and craftspeople will have a dedicated sales area, directly integrating Murter’s craftsmanship into the center’s economic model.
Financial Inclusion & Community-Centered Programming
While many interpretation centers focus on tourism-driven revenue, Amphorarium is designed to be accessible and useful for local residents. Educational programs for schools are free, while discounted or free entry is available for marginalized groups, seniors, and students. Over 70% of cultural events and workshops will be community-focused, reinforcing its role as a living cultural space, not just a museum.
Representation, Diversity & Social Empowerment
Unlike many cultural centers, Amphorarium actively promotes social inclusion and gender equality. Thematic exhibitions will highlight the historical role of Murter’s women, while programs on non-discrimination and cultural diversity will foster social cohesion.
Universal Accessibility & Inclusive Infrastructure
The entire space is fully accessible, with step-free access, wide walkways, and a lift connecting all levels. Exhibition content includes Braille descriptions, multilingual audio guides, and hands-on storytelling elements, ensuring diverse learning experiences for children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Technology such as interactive VR installations further enhances inclusivity, offering alternative ways to experience cultural heritage.
The outdoor Mediterranean garden, inspired by the traditional Dalmatian “pijaca” (marketplace), serves as a community gathering space, hosting local festivals, artisanal markets, and cultural events. Local artisans and craftspeople will have a dedicated sales area, directly integrating Murter’s craftsmanship into the center’s economic model.
Financial Inclusion & Community-Centered Programming
While many interpretation centers focus on tourism-driven revenue, Amphorarium is designed to be accessible and useful for local residents. Educational programs for schools are free, while discounted or free entry is available for marginalized groups, seniors, and students. Over 70% of cultural events and workshops will be community-focused, reinforcing its role as a living cultural space, not just a museum.
Representation, Diversity & Social Empowerment
Unlike many cultural centers, Amphorarium actively promotes social inclusion and gender equality. Thematic exhibitions will highlight the historical role of Murter’s women, while programs on non-discrimination and cultural diversity will foster social cohesion.
The Municipality of Murter-Kornati began conceptualising the Amphorarium several years ago, recognizing the need for a space that would both preserve local heritage and serve as a cultural hub for the community. Between 2016 and 2024, the Municipality organised numerous public workshops, bringing together local residents, artists, architects and other experts to co-create the vision for the center.
These participatory discussions shaped the final concept, ensuring that the Amphorarium reflects the true identity of Murter and meets the needs of its people.
In July 2024, the project was officially submitted for funding to the Ministry of Regional Development and by February 2025, it was awarded financial support for its realization. The construction and equipping of the center will be completed in 2026/2027, after which it will operate as both a visitor interpretation center and a year-round cultural hub for the local population.
For Murter’s residents, the center will provide new opportunities for education, creativity, and economic empowerment as it will organize educational workshops for youth, including training in creative industries, storytelling, and digital skills that can benefit local entrepreneurs. Local artisans will have a dedicated space to showcase and sell their products, ensuring the promotion of traditional crafts such as olive oil and wine production, and pottery. The Amphorarium will also serve as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and festivals celebrating Murter’s unique customs, history, and artistic expression.
Beyond events, the architectural design of the Amphorarium is tailored to the island’s needs. It includes a presentation hall, a Mediterranean garden for outdoor cultural events, and a dedicated retail space for local producers. This ensures that while the center authentically presents Murter’s heritage to visitors, it remains a functional and vibrant space where culture is not just preserved but actively lived and shared
These participatory discussions shaped the final concept, ensuring that the Amphorarium reflects the true identity of Murter and meets the needs of its people.
In July 2024, the project was officially submitted for funding to the Ministry of Regional Development and by February 2025, it was awarded financial support for its realization. The construction and equipping of the center will be completed in 2026/2027, after which it will operate as both a visitor interpretation center and a year-round cultural hub for the local population.
For Murter’s residents, the center will provide new opportunities for education, creativity, and economic empowerment as it will organize educational workshops for youth, including training in creative industries, storytelling, and digital skills that can benefit local entrepreneurs. Local artisans will have a dedicated space to showcase and sell their products, ensuring the promotion of traditional crafts such as olive oil and wine production, and pottery. The Amphorarium will also serve as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and festivals celebrating Murter’s unique customs, history, and artistic expression.
Beyond events, the architectural design of the Amphorarium is tailored to the island’s needs. It includes a presentation hall, a Mediterranean garden for outdoor cultural events, and a dedicated retail space for local producers. This ensures that while the center authentically presents Murter’s heritage to visitors, it remains a functional and vibrant space where culture is not just preserved but actively lived and shared
The Amphorarium project integrates a multi-level collaboration approach, engaging local, regional, national, and EU stakeholders to ensure its successful design, implementation, and long-term sustainability.
At the local level, the Municipality of Murter-Kornati, cultural organisations, NGOs, and the local tourist board played a central role in conceptualizing the project and defining its governance model. The Municipality actively engaged with the local school, artisans and tourism businesses to ensure that once constructed, Amphorarium becomes a vibrant, community-driven space. The local tourist board, as an official project partner, will lead the promotion of Amphorarium, strengthening Murter’s identity as a cultural and heritage tourism destination.
At the regional level, the Šibenik-Knin County was instrumental in securing funding, ensuring the project was embedded within regional development strategies and action plans. The Regional Development Agency, also an official partner, provided technical and strategic support to align Amphorarium with broader regional island development goals and sustainable tourism initiatives.
At the national level, the project aligns with the Integrated Territorial Program (ITP) 2021–2027, developed by the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds, ensuring compliance with Croatia’s national development policies. Since the project was approved for financing, it demonstrates its strategic importance and adherence to EU best practices for adaptive reuse and sustainable cultural revitalisation.
At the EU level, Amphorarium fully aligns with New European Bauhaus (NEB) values and Horizon Europe priorities, setting an example for innovative cultural sustainability. The project contributes to climate resilience in coastal regions, sustainable tourism development, and local economic diversification, making it a scalable model for other European islands seeking to preserve their heritage while promoting year-round tourism.
At the local level, the Municipality of Murter-Kornati, cultural organisations, NGOs, and the local tourist board played a central role in conceptualizing the project and defining its governance model. The Municipality actively engaged with the local school, artisans and tourism businesses to ensure that once constructed, Amphorarium becomes a vibrant, community-driven space. The local tourist board, as an official project partner, will lead the promotion of Amphorarium, strengthening Murter’s identity as a cultural and heritage tourism destination.
At the regional level, the Šibenik-Knin County was instrumental in securing funding, ensuring the project was embedded within regional development strategies and action plans. The Regional Development Agency, also an official partner, provided technical and strategic support to align Amphorarium with broader regional island development goals and sustainable tourism initiatives.
At the national level, the project aligns with the Integrated Territorial Program (ITP) 2021–2027, developed by the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds, ensuring compliance with Croatia’s national development policies. Since the project was approved for financing, it demonstrates its strategic importance and adherence to EU best practices for adaptive reuse and sustainable cultural revitalisation.
At the EU level, Amphorarium fully aligns with New European Bauhaus (NEB) values and Horizon Europe priorities, setting an example for innovative cultural sustainability. The project contributes to climate resilience in coastal regions, sustainable tourism development, and local economic diversification, making it a scalable model for other European islands seeking to preserve their heritage while promoting year-round tourism.
The Amphorarium was developed through an interdisciplinary approach, integrating local stakeholders, experts, and public institutions to create a sustainable cultural hub. From its initial concept to the finalized project proposal, a diverse team worked collaboratively to ensure its architectural, educational, and economic impact.
A dedicated project team included:
-Architects and engineers, designing an adaptive reuse structure that honors Murter’s maritime heritage while integrating sustainable materials in line with NEB and DNSH principles.
-Archaeologists, historians, and cultural experts, curating exhibitions that showcase Murter’s amphora trade, shipbuilding traditions, and coastal identity.
-Experts in digital technology, creating interactive VR storytelling and educational tools to enhance accessibility and engagement.
-EU funding and policy specialists, ensuring alignment with ERDF sustainability goals and the regional development strategy.
-Social scientists and community leaders, shaping inclusive programs that foster local participation and year-round cultural engagement.
-Legal and governance professionals, structuring the institutional framework for long-term public management and financial sustainability.
-Tourism and creative industry professionals, ensuring the center’s role in economic diversification beyond seasonal tourism.
Through weekly online workshops, the team refined design, sustainability strategies, and cultural programming while integrating eco-friendly construction and green procurement. The Amphorarium’s identity was carefully shaped to reflect Murter’s authenticity and counter mass tourism trends.
By merging architecture, archaeology, digital innovation, social sciences, and cultural tourism, the Amphorarium become a model of interdisciplinary collaboration, proving that cultural heritage can drive sustainable development in island communities.
A dedicated project team included:
-Architects and engineers, designing an adaptive reuse structure that honors Murter’s maritime heritage while integrating sustainable materials in line with NEB and DNSH principles.
-Archaeologists, historians, and cultural experts, curating exhibitions that showcase Murter’s amphora trade, shipbuilding traditions, and coastal identity.
-Experts in digital technology, creating interactive VR storytelling and educational tools to enhance accessibility and engagement.
-EU funding and policy specialists, ensuring alignment with ERDF sustainability goals and the regional development strategy.
-Social scientists and community leaders, shaping inclusive programs that foster local participation and year-round cultural engagement.
-Legal and governance professionals, structuring the institutional framework for long-term public management and financial sustainability.
-Tourism and creative industry professionals, ensuring the center’s role in economic diversification beyond seasonal tourism.
Through weekly online workshops, the team refined design, sustainability strategies, and cultural programming while integrating eco-friendly construction and green procurement. The Amphorarium’s identity was carefully shaped to reflect Murter’s authenticity and counter mass tourism trends.
By merging architecture, archaeology, digital innovation, social sciences, and cultural tourism, the Amphorarium become a model of interdisciplinary collaboration, proving that cultural heritage can drive sustainable development in island communities.
The Amphorarium introduces multiple innovations that distinguish it from traditional cultural centers, merging sustainability, digital accessibility, and immersive storytelling.
Its adaptive reuse strategy revitalizes a centuries-old cistern, preserving its authenticity while modernizing it for public use. Instead of building anew, the project integrates the historic structure into a contemporary cultural hub.
The center’s multi-layered experience blends history with cutting-edge digital tools. Interactive VR explorations transport visitors to ancient trade routes, while immersive soundscapes and haptic exhibits engage all senses, making history tangible. The exhibition layout itself is innovative—visitors enter at the top level and descend into the cistern, symbolically "diving" into Murter’s maritime past, where the story of a sunken ship and its amphorae unfolds.
A strong focus is placed on inclusivity through assistive technologies. Chat-based interactive guides cater to hearing-impaired visitors, while audio descriptions and tactile surfaces ensure accessibility for the visually impaired. Smart screens provide real-time translations, and wheelchair-accessible ramps make navigation easy.
The governance model is forward-thinking. Unlike conventional museums, Amphorarium functions as a cultural and economic hub, supporting local artisans, culinary heritage, and education, ensuring sustainability beyond peak seasons.
Lastly, the project integrates rainwater collection (honoring the cistern’s original function), an energy-efficient façade, and sustainable construction, aligning with EU Green Deal objectives. Through its fusion of technology, sustainability, and accessibility, Amphorarium sets a new standard for cultural heritage interpretation.
Its adaptive reuse strategy revitalizes a centuries-old cistern, preserving its authenticity while modernizing it for public use. Instead of building anew, the project integrates the historic structure into a contemporary cultural hub.
The center’s multi-layered experience blends history with cutting-edge digital tools. Interactive VR explorations transport visitors to ancient trade routes, while immersive soundscapes and haptic exhibits engage all senses, making history tangible. The exhibition layout itself is innovative—visitors enter at the top level and descend into the cistern, symbolically "diving" into Murter’s maritime past, where the story of a sunken ship and its amphorae unfolds.
A strong focus is placed on inclusivity through assistive technologies. Chat-based interactive guides cater to hearing-impaired visitors, while audio descriptions and tactile surfaces ensure accessibility for the visually impaired. Smart screens provide real-time translations, and wheelchair-accessible ramps make navigation easy.
The governance model is forward-thinking. Unlike conventional museums, Amphorarium functions as a cultural and economic hub, supporting local artisans, culinary heritage, and education, ensuring sustainability beyond peak seasons.
Lastly, the project integrates rainwater collection (honoring the cistern’s original function), an energy-efficient façade, and sustainable construction, aligning with EU Green Deal objectives. Through its fusion of technology, sustainability, and accessibility, Amphorarium sets a new standard for cultural heritage interpretation.
The Amphorarium was developed through a truly participatory, bottom-up approach, integrating expertise from diverse sectors while ensuring strong alignment with local, regional, and EU priorities. The project is rooted in community needs, designed by and for the local population, while fully adhering to New European Bauhaus (NEB) values and EU sustainability goals.
From the conceptual phase, the initiative engaged local artisans, historians, cultural workers, tourism professionals, architects, digital technologists, and policymakers through a series of structured workshops and consultations. These efforts ensured that the Amphorarium would serve a dual purpose—acting as a visitor center while also becoming a cultural and educational hub for the local community.
Sustainability was embedded at all levels, with adaptive reuse at its core, ensuring minimal environmental impact while revitalizing the historical cistern. An interdisciplinary team collaborated weekly, balancing technical, architectural, and historical integrity with digital innovation and accessibility.
The project's governance structure reflects multi-level cooperation. The Municipality of Murter-Kornati, as the project lead, ensured local needs were prioritized. Regional authorities integrated the initiative into their development strategies, while national and EU bodies provided funding, ensuring compliance with broader cultural and sustainability frameworks.
The Amphorarium moves beyond a standard museum model, implementing hybrid programming that combines exhibitions, cultural events, and educational workshops year-round. This fusion of participatory planning, multi-level governance, and heritage-driven development positions the project as a scalable model for sustainable cultural innovation.
From the conceptual phase, the initiative engaged local artisans, historians, cultural workers, tourism professionals, architects, digital technologists, and policymakers through a series of structured workshops and consultations. These efforts ensured that the Amphorarium would serve a dual purpose—acting as a visitor center while also becoming a cultural and educational hub for the local community.
Sustainability was embedded at all levels, with adaptive reuse at its core, ensuring minimal environmental impact while revitalizing the historical cistern. An interdisciplinary team collaborated weekly, balancing technical, architectural, and historical integrity with digital innovation and accessibility.
The project's governance structure reflects multi-level cooperation. The Municipality of Murter-Kornati, as the project lead, ensured local needs were prioritized. Regional authorities integrated the initiative into their development strategies, while national and EU bodies provided funding, ensuring compliance with broader cultural and sustainability frameworks.
The Amphorarium moves beyond a standard museum model, implementing hybrid programming that combines exhibitions, cultural events, and educational workshops year-round. This fusion of participatory planning, multi-level governance, and heritage-driven development positions the project as a scalable model for sustainable cultural innovation.
The Amphorarium’s approach is highly replicable for other coastal and island communities facing challenges of seasonality, heritage preservation, and economic diversification. Throughout the project preparation phase, an extensive knowledge base was gathered, resulting in over 50 supporting documents that cover every aspect of the initiative—from conceptualization to governance, construction, and inclusive design: every step of the project has been meticulously documented and can be adapted to other locations.
The bottom-up approach, which involved local residents, artisans, cultural workers and tourism professionals, ensured community-driven governance. This process can be replicated in other regions looking to develop culturally and socially sustainable projects;
On a technical level, the project showcases adaptive reuse of historic structures, sustainable construction materials, and green public procurement, making it a valuable case study for future projects; Additionally, it integrates universal accessibility solutions, including step-free access, multilingual audio guides, interactive digital elements for the visually impaired, and sign language interpretation. These best practices can be applied in projects worldwide; Beyond physical and digital infrastructure, the project is designed to continuously share its learnings. A digital platform will be launched during the implementation phase, making key documents, methodologies, and technical solutions publicly available. The initiative also includes a dedicated budget for communication, ensuring that the project is widely promoted across social media in Croatia, increasing the likelihood of knowledge-sharing among similar island communities.
Finally, the project has been approved for funding passing rigorous assessments by SAFU, Croatia’s agency for EU fund management.This validation confirms that the project aligns with national and EU best practices, making it a strong model for replication.
The bottom-up approach, which involved local residents, artisans, cultural workers and tourism professionals, ensured community-driven governance. This process can be replicated in other regions looking to develop culturally and socially sustainable projects;
On a technical level, the project showcases adaptive reuse of historic structures, sustainable construction materials, and green public procurement, making it a valuable case study for future projects; Additionally, it integrates universal accessibility solutions, including step-free access, multilingual audio guides, interactive digital elements for the visually impaired, and sign language interpretation. These best practices can be applied in projects worldwide; Beyond physical and digital infrastructure, the project is designed to continuously share its learnings. A digital platform will be launched during the implementation phase, making key documents, methodologies, and technical solutions publicly available. The initiative also includes a dedicated budget for communication, ensuring that the project is widely promoted across social media in Croatia, increasing the likelihood of knowledge-sharing among similar island communities.
Finally, the project has been approved for funding passing rigorous assessments by SAFU, Croatia’s agency for EU fund management.This validation confirms that the project aligns with national and EU best practices, making it a strong model for replication.
By protecting identity, rethinking tourism, empowering communities, and embracing climate adaptation A. provides local solutions to global challenges.
1.Countering Cult. Homogenization & Mass Tourism: With globalization and commercialized tourism, historic destinations lose uniqueness, replaced by standardized experiences. The Amphorarium resists this by celebrating Murter’s heritage, integrating local craftsmanship, and ensuring the community actively participates in its cult. programming. Unlike most visitor centers, it functions as a year-round cultural hub, offering space for local events, artisans, and educational programs, reinforcing authentic identity over mass-market appeal.
2.Balancing Tourism & Envir. Sustainability: Many coastal regions suffer from intense seasonal tourism, overwhelming resources in summer while remaining underutilized for the rest of the year. The A. helps rebalance tourism by creating year-round cult. activities, promoting alternative tourism models (heritage tours, workshops, eco-activities), and reducing reliance on mass summer tourism, thus preserving nature and stabilizing the local economy.
3.Strengthening Climate Resilience & Resource Efficiency: Coastal regions face climate threats—heatwaves, water scarcity, and rising sea levels. The A. integrates solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and eco-certified materials to reduce carbon emissions. Over 70% of construction waste will be recycled, and energy-efficient systems ensure minimal impact, setting a standard for sustainable cultural infrastructure.
4.Social Inclusion & Community Engagement: Many island communities face youth migration, elderly isolation, and declining social cohesion. The Amphorarium fosters intergenerational exchange, promotes youth participation, and includes gender and diversity-sensitive programs, ensuring representation and accessibility. It also promotes cultural dialogue, responding to the growing need tolerance in diverse societies.
1.Countering Cult. Homogenization & Mass Tourism: With globalization and commercialized tourism, historic destinations lose uniqueness, replaced by standardized experiences. The Amphorarium resists this by celebrating Murter’s heritage, integrating local craftsmanship, and ensuring the community actively participates in its cult. programming. Unlike most visitor centers, it functions as a year-round cultural hub, offering space for local events, artisans, and educational programs, reinforcing authentic identity over mass-market appeal.
2.Balancing Tourism & Envir. Sustainability: Many coastal regions suffer from intense seasonal tourism, overwhelming resources in summer while remaining underutilized for the rest of the year. The A. helps rebalance tourism by creating year-round cult. activities, promoting alternative tourism models (heritage tours, workshops, eco-activities), and reducing reliance on mass summer tourism, thus preserving nature and stabilizing the local economy.
3.Strengthening Climate Resilience & Resource Efficiency: Coastal regions face climate threats—heatwaves, water scarcity, and rising sea levels. The A. integrates solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and eco-certified materials to reduce carbon emissions. Over 70% of construction waste will be recycled, and energy-efficient systems ensure minimal impact, setting a standard for sustainable cultural infrastructure.
4.Social Inclusion & Community Engagement: Many island communities face youth migration, elderly isolation, and declining social cohesion. The Amphorarium fosters intergenerational exchange, promotes youth participation, and includes gender and diversity-sensitive programs, ensuring representation and accessibility. It also promotes cultural dialogue, responding to the growing need tolerance in diverse societies.
The A.project was officially approved for funding in 02/2025 under the ITP with 85% co-financed by the ERDF. Implementation will begin in 04/2025 and last 25 months, with the completion of construction and equipment installation expected by 04/05 2027, followed by the start of full operational activities. The project consists of 4 activities, 2 of which (Project Management and Visibility & Promotion) are horizontal and will run throughout the entire implementation period (04/2025–04/2027). The remaining 2 (Construction & Infrastructure Development and Equipment & Visual Identity) are sequential.
Project Management (04/2025–04/2027): A dedicated team, including local authorities and external experts, will oversee green procurement, sustainable construction, and inclusive policies, ensuring efficient project implementation.
Visibility & Promotion (04/2025–04/2027): Amphorarium will prioritize dig. engagement over print, using storytelling, online platforms, and multimedia campaigns to establish itself as a year-round cultural and edu. hub.
Construction & Infrastructure Development (08/2025–10/2026): The 625 m² three-story facility, built on Roman cistern, will incorporate solar panels, rainwater collection, and energy-efficient insulation. DNSH principles will guide material selection and waste management.
Equipment & Visual Identity (06/2026–02/2027): The center will be outfitted with VR experiences, eco-certified furnishings, and interactive exhibits, while the 1,055 m² Mediterranean plaza will host local markets, festivals, and cultural events, reinforcing A.’s role as a community hub.
Post-Implementation & Growth (2027–2031): In April/May 2027, A. will officially open under the management of a new public institution, starting with 5 employees and expanding as programs and visitor engagement grow. By 2031, it will be a model for sustainable heritage revitalization, balancing cultural preservation, environmental responsibility and community inclusion.
Project Management (04/2025–04/2027): A dedicated team, including local authorities and external experts, will oversee green procurement, sustainable construction, and inclusive policies, ensuring efficient project implementation.
Visibility & Promotion (04/2025–04/2027): Amphorarium will prioritize dig. engagement over print, using storytelling, online platforms, and multimedia campaigns to establish itself as a year-round cultural and edu. hub.
Construction & Infrastructure Development (08/2025–10/2026): The 625 m² three-story facility, built on Roman cistern, will incorporate solar panels, rainwater collection, and energy-efficient insulation. DNSH principles will guide material selection and waste management.
Equipment & Visual Identity (06/2026–02/2027): The center will be outfitted with VR experiences, eco-certified furnishings, and interactive exhibits, while the 1,055 m² Mediterranean plaza will host local markets, festivals, and cultural events, reinforcing A.’s role as a community hub.
Post-Implementation & Growth (2027–2031): In April/May 2027, A. will officially open under the management of a new public institution, starting with 5 employees and expanding as programs and visitor engagement grow. By 2031, it will be a model for sustainable heritage revitalization, balancing cultural preservation, environmental responsibility and community inclusion.
