Architecture of money: The story of Moneterra – Ante Vrban, architect

Published: 11/3/2026

In this episode of the CNB Podcast we look behind the scenes of Moneterra – The Money Museum of the Croatian National Bank. We speak with architect Ante Vrban about the idea behind this museum and its design, as a space connecting architecture, education and emotions and the path to internationally renowned rewards.

Sections:

01:16
Section 1: What were you first thoughts when you were hired to design the interior of the money museum, what was your starting idea?
The money museum was a big challenge since we needed to use physical space to present a single specific topic, the monetary system; it was unlike anything we had done before.
02:22
Section 2: How did you translate the concepts of money, trust, stability and financial literacy into architectural language of space which speaks to visitors?
Each such museum is educational and to translate its theme through architecture is not easy. Such space must exude security, stability and good energy since the topic of money may be both positive and negative. This space must explain the theme of money and its present and past use in a simple yet professional way.
03:53
Section 3: If you were to describe Moneterra using a single idea or message, what would it be?
Knowledge. Moneterra is the place which teaches you money awareness and provides an insight into the significance of money over time.
04:40
Section 4: What were the biggest engineering and conceptual compromises you had to make in order to fit the whole project into six months and the limited budget?
As the technologically most advanced museum in Europe, its realization was very challenging; we also had to make certain compromises between the idea and the final product.
06:08
Section 5: Which part of the museum are you most proud of and what would you like visitors to take with them after a visit to the museum?
The entrance is very interesting with its time machine showcasing the history of currency from prehistoric times until today, starting with salt, wood and stone as prehistoric currencies and ending with today’s digital currencies. Overall however, I am very proud of the high quality of work that went into the realization of the idea behind this museum.
07:55
Section 6: Moneterra won numerous international awards such as the German Design Award and the Best Public Service Interior. What do these awards mean to you personally and at what point did you realise that the project had surpassed the national boundaries?
Receiving such international recognition is a great honour, and the global award for best public service interior is the highest industry award. But these awards belong to all of us participating in the project.
11:05
Section 7: What is the meaning of such recognition and awards in terms of providing incentives for further work?
Industry awards are given in recognition of one’s work and they matter because they are backed by the profession and science.