New Vučedol Archaeological Park: A cultural and economic boost

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

The city of Vukovar has officially commenced construction on the Vučedol Archaeological Park, a project that aims to transform the area into a significant cultural and tourist attraction.

The works, carried out by the company MONTE-MONT d.o.o., will focus on the development, restoration, and revitalisation of the archaeological site, including the construction of a new municipal dock and enhancement of tourist and hospitality infrastructure.

The Mayor of Vukovar, Ivan Penava, alongside the Head of the Department for Economy, Martina Prepunić, and other associates, attended the project launch.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

The meeting, held at the Vučedol Culture Museum on 21 October 2024, also featured state officials, including Dražena Vrselja, State Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Media, and representatives from Ernst & Young, providing technical support.

Penava highlighted the significance of the project for the local community, stating, “This is a monumental moment for Vukovar and its residents. After years of planning, work at Vučedol officially begins today.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

The second and final phase, valued at over €11 million, will transform the eastern part of the city into a tourist hotspot distinguished by its scientific and archaeological features.

Alongside the existing Vučedol Culture Museum, we will gain new cultural facilities, a dock, and upgraded infrastructure. I look forward to the project’s completion and extend my gratitude to everyone involved.”

State Secretary Dražena Vrselja echoed these sentiments, recognising the cultural and historical significance of the site. She commented, “The long-standing research at Vučedol continues to uncover the immense value of this site. It is not just a treasure of Vukovar and the Vukovar-Srijem County but also a crucial piece of European and global heritage.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

The Ministry will continue to strongly support the museum and related activities at Vučedol.” She added that the development will have a positive impact on tourism, the local economy, and employment opportunities.

The Director of the Vučedol Culture Museum, Mirela Hutinec, expressed her excitement about the project’s progress, noting that this day had been eagerly awaited for 9.5 years.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

“The second phase includes the reconstruction of the Vučedol settlement, the Vučedol megaron, a restaurant, a planetarium, and accompanying infrastructure, such as the municipal dock. I am proud to see the work finally begin and look forward to introducing new features at the Vučedol site that will help preserve Vukovar’s cultural heritage,” she said.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

Project Scope and Funding

The comprehensive project, with a total investment of €11,244,254.55 (including VAT), involves the reconstruction of the Vučedol settlement and the megaron at the Gradac site, alongside the development of a restaurant, planetarium, parking facilities, and the construction of a dock.

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

The initiative is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, covering 66% of the costs.

Vukovar’s local government is specifically responsible for developing the parking and turning area at the eastern exit and constructing the municipal dock, with works totalling €1,113,890.25 (including VAT). The professional supervision, valued at €198,747.50 (including VAT), is managed by RESPECT-ING d.o.o., with the city contributing €19,688.54 (including VAT).

(Photo credit: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

Cultural and Economic Impact

The development of the Vučedol Archaeological Park is designed to revitalise Vukovar’s economy and enhance the cultural and tourist appeal of the Vukovar-Srijem County and the broader region.

Vučedol Culture Museum (Photo: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

By expanding the cultural offerings and showcasing the unique historical heritage of the Vučedol site, the project aims to boost tourism, stimulate local businesses, and increase employment opportunities for residents, setting the stage for long-term economic growth and development.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)