Daruvar – jučer, danas, zauvijek

Mate Pejić's photo-monograph Daruvar – yesterday, today, forever is a richly illustrated chronological and thematic portrait of the city of Daruvar, the center of the Czech minority in Croatia. The first edition was published in 2012 by the City of Daruvar, followed by updated editions (2013 and 2019) and English and Czech translations. This is the third, revised edition.

The author and editor Mato Pejić, a long-time Daruvar journalist, chronicler and publicist, in collaboration with photographer Predrag Uskoković, created a visual and textual mosaic that combines vintage photographs, documents and contemporary footage. The book follows the development of the city from its beginnings, through industrial heritage (breweries, spas), cultural and religious landmarks, everyday life, all the way to modern achievements and perspectives. It particularly highlights multiculturalism – the Croatian-Czech community, tradition, festivals and natural beauties of the surroundings (Bilogora, Papuk).

The format and design of the monograph are accessible and attractive, ideal as a souvenir or gift, but also as a serious historical document. The texts are concise, informative and nostalgic, and high-quality photographs convey the atmosphere of the city through time – from black and white shots of the past to vivid depictions of the present. The book emphasizes the continuity of Daruvar's identity as a meeting place of cultures, tourism and everyday life.

Pejić's love for the city, where he spent decades working in the media and culture, is visible on every page. The monograph is not just an album of pictures, but an emotional story about roots, changes and hope for the future. Perfect for those who want to get to know the soul of this charming Slavonian town.