The Urbanist Tall Stories 440: Motel Plitvice, Zagreb
Jan 6, 2025
Guy de Launey, a contributor with expertise in Yugoslav architecture, shares insights on the Motel Plitvice, a landmark of post-modern design near Zagreb. He discusses its once-glamorous appeal and the distinct architectural style that defined it. The conversation dives into the cultural significance of this roadside icon and its decline due to financial issues and changing political tides. De Launey reflects on the Motel's legacy and the shifting landscape of travel and architecture in Croatia.
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Plitvice Motel Demolition
- The Plitvice Motel, a roadside landmark on Croatia's main motorway, was demolished in August 2024.
- Its closure reflects the decline of roadside facilities due to changing driver habits and long stretches of uneventful highway.
Motel's Misleading Name
- Despite its name, the Plitvice Motel was not near the Plitvice Lakes but was commissioned by the organization managing the park.
- It featured a distinctive pedestrian skyway linking two parts of the facility and a design reminiscent of a mountain inn.
Architectural Significance
- The motel was designed by Zdravko Bregovac, a celebrated Yugoslav architect known for his resort hotels along the Adriatic coast.
- Bregovac's designs emphasized natural light, wood, and abstract art, creating a distinct style.