Croatia’s publishing industry has grown steadily over the past few decades, blending rich cultural heritage with modern publishing trends. From historic houses producing academic and religious works to independent publishers experimenting with avant-garde literature, Croatia offers a wide variety of options for authors.
This article explores the top 35 book publishing companies in Croatia (2025 update), giving an overview of each company, their specialties, and the role they play in shaping the Croatian book market.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting, now also functioning as a publishing house in Croatia, has expanded beyond ghostwriting into offering full publishing services. They curate selective works, focusing on quality storytelling and polished manuscripts.
- Offers editorial support and design services
- Works across multiple genres—fiction, memoir, and non-fiction
- Boutique in scale, ensuring personalized attention for each author
2. Školska knjiga
Školska knjiga is the largest and most established Croatian publishing house, with a strong presence in educational publishing since 1950.
- Specializes in textbooks, school materials, and academic references
- Plays a central role in Croatia’s education sector
- Trusted by educators, students, and institutions nationwide
3. Nakladni zavod Matice hrvatske
This publisher is linked with Matica hrvatska, a historic cultural and scholarly organization established in 1842.
- Publishes Croatian literature, academic studies, and cultural heritage works
- Contributes to preserving national identity
- Strong support for humanities and social sciences
4. V.B.Z.
V.B.Z. is a modern, commercial publishing company that handles both Croatian and international titles.
- Publishes bestsellers, popular fiction, and non-fiction
- Translates global authors into Croatian
- Known for high-quality book fairs and cultural events
5. Fraktura
Founded in 2009, Fraktura has become one of Croatia’s leading independent publishers.
- Focus on contemporary literature and fiction
- Emphasis on elegant book design and literary merit
- Operates its own dedicated bookstore in Zagreb
6. Algoritam
Algoritam is a long-established publisher popular for mainstream and mass-market books.
- Publishes international bestsellers in Croatian
- Covers genres like thrillers, romance, and fantasy
- Appeals to wide readership across age groups
7. Znanje
Znanje has been operating since 1957 and is known for affordable and accessible editions.
- Offers popular fiction, essays, and non-fiction
- Brings translated titles to Croatian readers
- Strong distribution network with broad reach
8. AGM
AGM specializes in visual storytelling formats, making it a standout for younger audiences and graphic artists.
- Publishes comics, graphic novels, and manga
- Supports emerging Croatian illustrators
- Attracts niche audiences with artistic publications
9. Golden Marketing – Tehnička knjiga
This publishing house is centered on academic and technical works.
- Focuses on professional, engineering, and business literature
- A go-to publisher for universities and professionals
- Strong catalog of technical manuals and research
10. Matrix Croatica
Matrix Croatica is tied to cultural identity and history.
- Publishes works on politics, Croatian heritage, and culture
- Academic and intellectual tone
- Suits historians, cultural scholars, and policy thinkers
11. Verbum
Verbum, based in Split, is Croatia’s leading religious and spiritual publisher.
- Focus on Catholic and Christian literature
- Translates global religious authors for Croatian readers
- Wide distribution across Dalmatia
12. Naklada Ljevak
This Zagreb-based publisher is respected for its intellectual catalog.
- Focuses on humanities and social sciences
- Publishes essays, philosophy, and critical theory
- Runs one of Zagreb’s central bookstores
13. Sandorf
Sandorf is an independent press founded in 2007 with a progressive outlook.
- Publishes avant-garde fiction and non-fiction
- Supports contemporary Croatian authors
- Strong cultural and social focus
14. TIM Press
TIM Press is a relatively young publisher but has quickly gained a solid reputation.
- Specializes in contemporary fiction and non-fiction
- Favors Croatian authors with modern themes
- Promotes fresh, innovative voices
15. Mozaik knjiga
Mozaik knjiga is a household name, particularly for families and children.
- Specializes in children’s books and educational literature
- Publishes poetry, art books, and fiction as well
- Offers beautifully illustrated editions for younger readers
16. Biblioteka Nova
A publisher committed to literary arts and criticism.
- Focuses on poetry, essays, and cultural theory
- Nurtures intellectual discourse
- Works with emerging Croatian poets and thinkers
17. Naklada Jesenski i Turk
This publisher has a strong academic profile, especially in humanities.
- Publishes sociology, anthropology, and philosophy
- Appeals to scholars and researchers
- Known for rigorous editorial standards
18. Disput
Disput specializes in philosophy and critical theory.
- Focus on essays and intellectual non-fiction
- Attracts academic and cultural readership
- Encourages deep, critical discussions
19. Antibarbarus
Antibarbarus takes a unique approach in publishing critical and philosophical works.
- Focuses on culture, philosophy, and literary theory
- Encourages debate and intellectual exchange
- Strong in academic circles
20. Kršćanska sadašnjost
One of Croatia’s most important religious publishers since 1968.
- Focused on theology, pastoral literature, and Christian spirituality
- Publishes liturgical and catechetical materials
- Trusted by church institutions
21. ArTresor Naklada
ArTresor stands out with a visual and artistic orientation.
- Publishes works on art, architecture, and design
- Known for high-quality visuals and coffee-table editions
- Appeals to creatives and professionals in the arts
22. Naklada Zoro
Zoro specializes in accessible science and technology literature.
- Publishes popular science for general readers
- Makes complex topics understandable
- Encourages STEM culture in Croatia
23. Pelago
Pelago highlights Croatia’s tourism and landscapes through its books.
- Publishes travel guides and cultural histories
- Appeals to both locals and international readers
- Popular among travel writers and cultural enthusiasts
24. Meandar Media
This publisher supports alternative and experimental voices.
- Publishes countercultural and avant-garde literature
- Offers space to marginalized writers
- Encourages unconventional storytelling
25. Naklada MD
A niche publisher with a healthcare and wellness focus.
- Specializes in psychology and self-help
- Produces educational health resources
- Popular among professionals and everyday readers
26. Biblioteka Kazalište
A unique publisher dedicated to performance studies.
- Publishes books on theater and drama
- Supports playwrights and cultural critics
- Key resource for theater professionals
27. Fibra
Fibra is Croatia’s leading comics publisher, established in 2006.
- Publishes graphic novels, comic series, and international classics
- Brings global comic artists to Croatian audiences
- Very popular with younger and artistic audiences
28. Naklada Slap
Known for preserving regional cultural voices.
- Focuses on local history and heritage
- Publishes works connected to Jastrebarsko region
- Serves cultural preservation projects
29. Ceres
Ceres is a specialist in esoteric and philosophical works.
- Covers spirituality, philosophy, and metaphysics
- Caters to niche intellectual readers
- Offers unique subject matter not widely available
30. Naklada OceanMore
OceanMore connects Croatia to its maritime traditions.
- Publishes nautical and maritime books
- Appeals to historians and sailors
- Great for authors writing about sea culture
31. Bitbooks
Bitbooks is a pioneer in digital publishing in Croatia.
- Focused on e-books and digital-first editions
- Appeals to tech-savvy readers
- Creates new opportunities for indie authors
32. Amaranthine Books
This publishing house explores imaginative genres.
- Focuses on fantasy and science fiction
- Publishes beautifully designed collector’s editions
- Strong niche audience in genre literature
33. Naklada Pavičić
A champion of contemporary Croatian literature.
- Publishes new authors in fiction and poetry
- Encourages experimentation in narrative form
- Serves as a stepping stone for emerging writers
34. Institut za etnologiju i folkloristiku
The Institute functions as both a research body and a publisher.
- Publishes ethnographic and folklore studies
- Preserves oral traditions and cultural anthropology
- Appeals to scholars and cultural historians
35. Hrvatski školski muzej (Croatian School Museum)
A museum and publishing house combined, with a special educational role.
- Publishes works on pedagogy and educational history
- Focus on academic research about schooling
- A unique hybrid of museum and publisher
The Importance of Independent Publishers in Croatia
Independent publishers like Fraktura, Sandorf, and Meandar Media are reshaping Croatia’s literary landscape. They provide opportunities for authors whose works may not fit the mainstream but contribute meaningfully to cultural discourse.
- Encourage risk-taking and experimentation
- Create space for social commentary
- Contribute to Croatia’s global literary reputation
Conclusion
Croatia’s publishing industry in 2025 shows a healthy balance of tradition, culture, and modern innovation. From long-established names like Školska knjiga and Nakladni zavod Matice hrvatske to independent voices such as Fraktura and Sandorf, the country’s publishers serve a wide range of readers and writers. Niche publishers, academic houses, and even newer entrants like Barnett Ghostwriting highlight the diversity and evolving nature of the market. Overall, Croatia remains a strong hub for literature, cultural preservation, and new creative expression.
FAQs
Q- How can an author become a bestseller in Croatia?
By choosing the right publisher, marketing well, and connecting with readers.
Q- How much does it cost to publish a book in Croatia?
Costs vary but can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros.
Q- Which publishers are best for new writers?
Independent houses like Fraktura, Sandorf, and Barnett Ghostwriting often welcome new voices.
Q- Is self-publishing popular in Croatia?
Yes, digital-first platforms and indie publishers make it accessible.
Q- Do Croatian publishers accept English manuscripts?
Some do, but most require works in Croatian or translated versions.
