AVNOJ Museum in Jajce: Birthplace of a Nation
In the historic town of Jajce, the Museum of the Second Session of AVNOJ stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in 20th-century European history. From this building's stage, the political blueprint for socialist Yugoslavia was declared, making Jajce the civic birthplace of a nation. Originally constructed in 1934 as the "Sokol" Society building by architect Momir Korunović, its story is one of dramatic transformation.
A Tumultuous Wartime History
The building's journey reflects the immense upheaval of its time. Before becoming a historic political venue, it served varied and starkly contrasting purposes. During World War II, after Axis forces occupied Jajce, the substantial two-level structure was repurposed as a German prison. Following the town's liberation by Partisan forces, the complex was burned.
In the lead-up to the planned council meeting, the damaged building underwent a rapid, three-week renovation. This swift reconstruction prepared the stage for one of the most significant events in the region's history, transforming a site of conflict into a hall of statecraft.
The Birth of a Nation: The Second Session of AVNOJ
On November 29 and 30, 1943, 142 delegates gathered inside this building for the Second Session of the Anti-Fascist Council for the National Liberation of Yugoslavia (AVNOJ). The decisions made here fundamentally shaped the future. The council declared itself the legitimate governing body of a new federal Yugoslavia, effectively barring the return of King Peter II and his government-in-exile.
A key outcome of the session was the promotion of the Partisan Army's leader, Josip Broz Tito, to the rank of Marshal, a proposal put forth by politician Moša Pijade. The interior of the hall was prepared for the session by Serbian painter Đorđe Andrejević-Kun, who created portraits of Allied leaders and Karl Marx that are still preserved today.
From Historic Hall to National Museum
The building was officially established as a museum in 1953, with its first permanent exhibition opening in 1959. It became a major destination, attracting over 2.5 million people between 1953 and 1988. The structure was declared a cultural monument in 1971. However, it suffered severe damage and looting during the Bosnian War in the 1990s.
In 2002, the Commission to Preserve National Monuments declared the building a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After a significant restoration project, the Public Institution "Museum of the 2nd session of AVNOJ" was established in 2007, and the museum officially reopened to the public on November 29, 2008.
The Museum Today
Currently, the museum serves as a vital cultural and historical institution in Jajce. It attracts approximately 20,000 visitors annually, including tourists and student groups from across the region. The museum hosts the annual "Days of AVNOJ in Jajce" event each November, drawing thousands of attendees to commemorate the historic session. Next to the museum, visitors can also see the "Little Partisan," a restored steam locomotive from 1903 that was used to transport delegates to the 1943 session.
FAQ
What was the Museum of the Second Session of AVNOJ originally?
It was originally the "Sokol" Society building, a public hall designed by architect Momir Korunović and constructed in 1934.
What major historical event happened at the AVNOJ Museum building?
The Second Session of AVNOJ (Anti-Fascist Council for the National Liberation of Yugoslavia) was held here on November 29-30, 1943, laying the political foundation for socialist Yugoslavia.
Who was named Marshal of Yugoslavia at the Second Session of AVNOJ?
Josip Broz Tito, leader of the Partisan Army, was granted the title of Marshal of Yugoslavia during the session.
Is the AVNOJ Museum building a national monument?
Yes, in 2002 the Commission to Preserve National Monuments declared the building, along with the original portraits inside, a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
