Europa Nostra and EIB Institute publish report on the Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac, Serbia

In a technical report released today, experts from Europa Nostra and the European Investment Bank Institute emphasise the urgent need to protect and restore the Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac, listed among the 7 Most Endangered heritage sites in Europe for 2024.

The Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army (HYPA) in Šabac, a landmark of modern architecture and cultural heritage from the former Yugoslavia, has been given a renewed opportunity for restoration and repurposing. A detailed technical report, prepared by experts from Europa Nostra and the European Investment Bank Institute, underscores the building’s historical importance and sets out a practical plan to transform it into a vibrant cultural and social hub.

Built in 1962, the HYPA represents the socialist-era vision of communal spaces, designed to foster cultural and social engagement rather than serve military functions. The HYPA building, once a cornerstone of Šabac’s community life, has been largely abandoned for over a decade. Although its modernist design and cultural legacy have suffered from neglect and exposure to the elements, the structure remains sound, providing a solid basis for restoration efforts.

The technical report suggests a €1.1 million restoration project that aims to preserve the building’s original architectural integrity while adapting it for contemporary use. Plans include creating cultural and commercial spaces, such as event halls, a gallery, co-working areas, and a café. The initiative is exploring a combination of EU grants, EIB loans, local government contributions, and crowdfunding. Once revitalised, the HYPA is expected to serve as a cultural and economic catalyst, hosting exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and educational programmes. It will enhance social cohesion and strengthen Šabac’s reputation as a cultural hub.

The technical report follows a mission conducted between 27 and 30 August 2024 by experts from the 7 Most Endangered Programme. The mission team included Joachim Schneider, on behalf of the EIB Institute, Laurie Neale, on behalf of Europa Nostra, and local architect and campaigner Marko Gavrilović, who nominated the HYPA with the initiative “Save the Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army” to the 7 Most Endangered Programme 2024. The experts held a series of meetings and site visits, emphasising the building’s emotional and historical value. The initiative has gained robust backing from local architects, cultural workers, and civil society, as evidenced by petitions and public campaigns. Residents shared deeply personal stories tied to the HYPA, highlighting its enduring significance.

 

During the mission, the team engaged with key figures, including Aleksandar Pajić, Mayor of Šabac; Jovan Vraneš, Director of Infrastructure of the City of Šabac; Ljubica Dimitrijević, Head of the Department for Research, Protection, and Documentation of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments of Serbia; and Nicola Bertolini, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Serbia. Discussions with the local representation of the European Investment Bank also explored potential financing options.

The 7 Most Endangered experts and the local nominators emphasise the need for immediate action towards the preservation of the HYPA from further weather damage. Europa Nostra’s inclusion of the HYPA in its 7 Most Endangered 2024 list has brought essential focus to the site, marking a crucial step towards safeguarding this unique example of Yugoslav architectural heritage.

More information

Full Technical Report on the Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac (PDF)