Nestled along Croatia’s Adriatic coast, the town of Ploče has long been overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, but a new study is shedding light on its unique architectural heritage and untapped potential. Zrinka Barišić Marenić, an architect and researcher from the University of Zagreb Faculty of Architecture, has delved into the modern public architecture of Ploče, revealing a hidden gem of Croatian design that could influence future urban and industrial developments.
Ploče is the only town in Croatia that was planned and built as a port-industrial hub after World War II, a fact that has led to its neglect in architectural research until now. “Ploče has been overlooked for too long,” Marenić states. “Its modern public architecture, built between 1952 and 1970, tells a story of transformation from an industrial port town to a more urbanized community.”
Marenić’s research, published in the journal Prostor (which translates to “Space”), is based on scarce primary archival material, field research, and comparisons with similar buildings across Croatia. She argues that Ploče’s architecture is a valuable piece of Croatian heritage that deserves recognition and preservation.
The study highlights how Ploče’s urban characteristics have evolved over time, with green areas serving as one indicator of this shift. This research could have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in the development of sustainable, urbanized industrial towns. As the world grapples with climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, the lessons from Ploče’s transformation could inform future developments.
Marenić’s work also points to the tourist potential of Ploče’s modern architecture. As Croatia continues to attract visitors with its stunning coastline and historic sites, Ploče’s unique architectural heritage could become another draw for culturally curious travelers.
The research serves as a call to action for architects, urban planners, and policymakers to reconsider the value of modern public architecture in shaping sustainable, urbanized communities. As Marenić puts it, “Ploče’s story is not just about the past; it’s about the future of our towns and cities.”
By bringing Ploče’s architectural heritage to light, Marenić’s research could influence future developments in the field, encouraging a greater appreciation for modern architecture and its role in creating sustainable, urbanized communities. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the lessons from Ploče’s transformation could inform the development of new, sustainable industrial towns that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.