Built in 1914, the villa was for decades a centre of social and intellectual life, and after a thorough renovation, its historical splendour once again shines. Today, it forms part of the Regional Centre of Competence for Tourism and Hospitality and at the same time represents an inspiring and unique space for hosting business events.
Magnificent History and Modern Restoration
The villa was built by Dubrovnik Mayor Melkior Melko Čingrija, a descendant of one of the most prominent families in Dubrovnik’s history. During the 20th century, the villa experienced a turbulent journey – from a family home and social salon, through nationalisation and administrative use, to decades of closure and neglect.
The City of Dubrovnik purchased it in 2018, after which, through European funds and investments worth more than €2.5 million, it was thoroughly renovated and equipped. Today, Villa Čingrija not only restores historical value to Dubrovnik but also serves as a modern educational and event space.
Akademis Čingrija – Merging Education and the Event Industry
Within the villa is Akademis Čingrija, a training ground of the Dubrovnik Tourism and Hospitality School. It functions as a real hospitality facility where students gain practical knowledge and skills, while guests and partners enjoy top-level service and an authentic experience. In the basement, there is a kitchen with all necessary auxiliary rooms, a wine cellar for guests and staff, as well as staff facilities, dressing rooms, and more. Next to the main entrance is the reception area.
For events, Villa Čingrija offers attractive and multifunctional spaces:
- Multimedia hall on the ground floor – capacity up to 60 people in theatre setup, ideal for workshops, seminars, lectures, and smaller conferences.
- Restaurant space – equipped like in luxury hotels, excellent for business lunches, tastings, or gala dinners, with 60 seats indoors and 60 in the outdoor area.
- Wine cellar and tasting room – a special basement space offering an intimate atmosphere for private events or wine workshops.
- Accommodation units – three 4-star rooms, as well as additional attic rooms for visiting lecturers, exchange participants, or smaller VIP groups.
- Beautiful gardens – the historic garden with sea views provides a unique backdrop for cocktails, formal receptions, or boutique outdoor events.
An Inspiring Place for the Future
What makes Villa Čingrija special is the blend of tradition and modernity – historic architecture and gardens combined with the latest technology and multimedia equipment create the ideal environment for organising business and educational events.
For Dubrovnik, Villa Čingrija is not only the return of one of its most beautiful buildings but also an investment in the future – in better education of tourism and hospitality professionals, strengthening the competitiveness of the destination, and enriching the offer of exclusive venues.
Whether it is a small-format conference, a business meeting, a culinary workshop, or a gala dinner in the garden overlooking the open sea, Villa Čingrija is today one of the most elegant and inspiring venues in Dubrovnik.
