In 1860, Josip Juraj Strossmayer, bishop of Djakovo and Srijem, began preparations for setting up a South Slavic Academy in Zagreb. The issue of the Academy was officially raised by Bishop Strossmayer at the Croatian Parliament session held on 29 April 1861, which is taken as the date of the establishment of this institution.
Today's central ceremony in the Croatian National Theatre brought together top Croatian officials, prominent scientists, scholars, artists, musicians and other public figures.
The HAZU is marking its anniversary throughout 2011.