Croatian House in Sombor Starts Reconstruction with Croatian Funding

Reconstruction and adaptation of the Croatian House in Sombor, Serbia, began this week as part of a Croatian‑government‑backed project to revitalise seven Croatian cultural centres in Vojvodina. The overall programme is financed with about €3.5 million, of which €830 000 is earmarked for the Sombor site. Works will refurbish roughly 500 m² of interior space and 370 m² of courtyard, with an aim to complete construction by the end of the year.

The inauguration ceremony featured Jasna Vojnić, president of the Croatian National Council (HNV) and a member of the Croatian parliament, who said, "The Government of the Republic of Croatia recognised the need for stronger support to associations. With this project we want to give an initial boost – to create quality conditions for their work." She also noted disappointment that the mayor of Sombor did not attend. A time capsule was placed in the foundations and a commemorative plaque unveiled. The effort is part of the "Build a mill where there is water" programme, which has already begun work in Šid and Ruma, and aims to provide lasting gathering places for the roughly 5,000 Croats living in north‑western Bačka and to preserve their cultural identity.