Shoppers say farewell to Zagreb’s iconic NAMA department store

Friday marked the final day of the liquidation sale at Zagreb’s iconic NAMA department store on Ilica Street, as the retailer prepares to transition to new ownership.

The closure ends a 140-year chapter for the classic 20th-century department store. The building was recently purchased by a Split-based company for more than 17 million euros.

In recent days, many customers stopped by to make one last purchase — or simply to take a final look at the store once known for selling everything from buttons and needles to boats.

By Friday, the shelves were nearly empty, but shoppers lingered, sharing memories.

“I remember buying stockings to go to Trieste and to go dancing at Saloon. NAMA was good back then — it had quality goods,” said Zdravka.

“I’m sad. It’s hard for me, and I didn’t even work at NAMA. I wanted to buy something, but it’s too crowded at the register, so I gave up,” said Olgica.

“I managed to get my grandson something on this last day to make him happy — and to say goodbye to NAMA,” said Tomislav.

“I started working here in 1973, as a young girl. I’m not objective because I worked here, so I’m quite emotional. I came to say goodbye,” said Slavica, a former employee.

The new owner has not yet revealed plans for the landmark property, located just steps from Zagreb’s main square in one of the city’s most valuable commercial areas.