Museum of Broken Relationships

Bucket List Item #139 Museum of Broken Relationships

Zagreb, Croatia

I didn’t know before visiting the Museum of Broken Relationships that visiting a museum could be an emotional experience. I’m not lying when I say that I laughed, cried and wanted to punch something while I was perusing the exhibits.

I’m generally on the fence about museum visits. I keep putting them on my bucket list because I just never know how I’m going to feel. Usually the older the better for me because romanticism, renaissance, medieval, etc artwork appeals to me more and sometimes historical exhibits depending on the culture. Modern art though? Meh. Sometimes. And a collection like this fell into that category for me. However, when I realized Dave and I were moving to Zagreb for a short time I did some research on the city and this little museum kept coming up repeatedly as one of the top things to do in the city.

Truth be told it was an overwhelmingly beautiful experience. The name really gives the theme away. All the objects on display are remnants of a relationship ended, ranging from letters to keepsakes. It could be a CD left behind, an engagement ring never given back or a momento from the first time you met. All the objects were submitted by people from all over the world alongside a story or even one line about the relationship or an anecdote for why the item was kept. You get the picture. What’s wild is how well curated this exhibit it. The people who maintain this are just geniuses in what they decide to display. I had belly laugh moments, I was reminded of past transgressions, I was angry for how they were treated and I literally cried at a few. Dave even got teary-eyed at one point, so if that doesn’t speak to how strong this display is I don’t know what does. It was just moving.

If you’re ever in Zagreb take my word for it and don’t skip it. Plus, the view right next door is amazing and there’s even a little watch tower you can climb up to and get a higher vantage point. Furthermore, there are usually some street vendors close by selling art. Dave and I bought one of our most treasured original pieces of art work for $20. Yes, you heard me right!

And if you don’t make it to Zagreb don’t fret! There is also a permanent display in Los Angeles. There is a traveling exhibit as well currently in Alta, Shanghai and Sydney. And if you’d like to donate an item from a past relationship you can find info on how to do so on their site!