Froggyland

Froggyland, located in the heart of Split, Croatia, is one of the most eccentric and fascinating museums in the world. This unique museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 500 taxidermied frogs, arranged in 21 dioramas depicting scenes of human daily life. The museum is located near the famous Diocletian’s Palace, adding a touch of curiosity and wonder to the historic city of Split. The story of Froggyland begins with Ferenc Mere, a talented Hungarian taxidermist of the 19th and 20th centuries. Born in 1878, Mere dedicated much of his life to creating this unique collection. Between 1910 and 1920, he captured and prepared hundreds of frogs of the species Rana esculenta using a meticulous technique that involved inserting tools through the mouth, thus avoiding visible external cuts. This innovative method preserved the aesthetic integrity of the specimens, making them almost lifelike in their anthropomorphic poses. The scenes depicted in the dioramas are varied and often ironic, ranging from frogs playing musical instruments, to frogs attending school, participating in legal proceedings, or engaging in sports activities. This representation of human life through frogs not only offers a bizarre and entertaining spectacle, but also serves as an artistic reflection on human nature and its daily habits. Mere managed to create a work that, although seemingly light-hearted, raises profound questions about the human condition and our relationship with the natural world. The idea of ​​turning this collection into a museum arose when, in the 1970s, Mere’s frogs were discovered in an attic in Serbia. Ivan Medvešek’s parents, the current owner, purchased the collection and brought it to Split, where Froggyland was inaugurated. Since then, the museum has become a must-see attraction for visitors to Split, attracting curious tourists and taxidermy enthusiasts from around the world. From an artistic point of view, Froggyland is an exceptional example of the art of taxidermy. The precision with which the specimens were made and the attention to detail in the scenes demonstrate Mere’s skill and dedication. Each diorama is a work of art in itself, capable of telling a story and evoking conflicting emotions, from wonder to hilarity, to reflection. The art of taxidermy, often relegated to a secondary role in the visual arts, finds in Froggyland a celebration of its complexity and beauty. Socially, Froggyland plays an important role in Split’s cultural landscape. The museum not only contributes to the city’s tourist offer, but also serves as a meeting point for discussions on broader themes, such as nature conservation, art, and the interaction between man and the environment. The reaction of visitors, ranging from wonder to skepticism, highlights the museum’s ability to stimulate critical thinking and discussion. Politically, Froggyland has faced some controversies, mainly related to the perception of taxidermy as a form of cruelty to animals. Some critics argue that the use of taxidermied animals in anthropomorphic poses can be seen as disrespectful. However, the museum has responded to these criticisms by emphasizing the historical and cultural importance of the collection, and the respect with which the specimens were treated during the taxidermy process.