The final mobility of the KUL project has officially begun! On Monday, participants from the Fashion and Design sector arrived in Croatia, where CUK Bjelovar is hosting an exciting week filled with discovery, inspiration, and intercultural exchange.

As part of the program, participants had the opportunity to visit KUC Travno on Tuesday – a remarkable institution located in Zagreb that is entirely dedicated to preserving the rich textile and costume heritage of Croatia and the surrounding regions.

A Unique Institution Dedicated to Folk Costume and Textile Preservation

KUC Travno (Cultural and Educational Center Travno) is a specialized center with a long-standing tradition in collecting, reconstructing, renting, and restoring traditional costumes, folkloric clothing, and scenic props used in folk performances and cultural events.

Over the course of more than 70 years, the center has carefully built a collection of more than 36,000 items, including costumes, accessories, and stage objects from approximately 300 different localities throughout Croatia and neighboring regions.

This makes KUC Travno a one-of-a-kind institution in Croatia – not only in terms of the sheer size of its collection but also due to the unique services and expertise it offers. Its commitment to preserving intangible cultural heritage through traditional clothing practices is deeply aligned with the spirit of the KUL project.

Inspiration Through Cultural Exchange

During the visit, the KUL participants were introduced to the center’s extensive collection and learned about the historical and cultural significance of traditional costume pieces. The experience offered a valuable perspective on how fashion, identity, and tradition intersect, and how these elements can inspire modern design thinking.

The visit was also a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, particularly in today’s fast-changing world where traditional crafts and knowledge are at risk of disappearing.

We extend our warmest thanks to KUC Travno and its dedicated team for their hospitality and the rich learning experience they provided. This visit set a strong foundation for the rest of the mobility, as participants continue to explore creative practices, heritage, and design in the Croatian context.

Stay Tuned!

The mobility in Croatia continues with more visits, workshops, and creative sessions ahead. Stay with us as we share more moments from this vibrant final chapter of the KUL project!