Audio Guide: Upper Town Walking Tour (Self Guided), Zagreb

Zagreb’s Upper Town forms the historic core of the city, rising on a hill above the modern lower districts. The name reflects its elevated position, distinguishing it from Lower Town, which developed later on the plains below. The wider area, however, has much older roots: nearby stood Andautonia, a Roman settlement that points to early habitation in the region. The name “Zagreb” itself appears in written records as early as 1134, linked to the establishment of the Kaptol diocese by Ladislaus I of Hungary in 1094.

Within Upper Town, the area historically consisted of two separate medieval settlements: Gradec and Kaptol, divided by the Medveščak Creek—today marked by Tkalčićeva Street. Kaptol developed as an ecclesiastical centre focused on the cathedral, which was consecrated in 1217, and served as the home of the clergy. In contrast, Gradec—meaning “little fortified town”—emerged in the 13th century after the Mongol invasion of Europe. In 1242, King Béla IV granted it a Golden Bull, elevating it to a free royal city with the right to build defensive walls. Protected by these fortifications, Gradec became a centre of trade, crafts, and civic life, largely inhabited by artisans and merchants.

For centuries, Gradec and Kaptol coexisted uneasily, frequently clashing over land and authority. Despite their proximity, disputes sometimes escalated into open conflict. Over time, however, shared interests and external pressures encouraged cooperation, and by the 18th and 19th centuries, the two settlements gradually merged, forming the foundation of modern Zagreb.

Upper Town today preserves this layered past in its medieval layout of narrow streets, churches, palaces, museums, and galleries. It became the administrative and political centre of Croatia, housing key institutions such as the parliament and government buildings. Fires, particularly the great fire of 1731, reshaped parts of the area, leading to reconstruction that defines much of its present appearance. Starting from Ban Jelačić Square, the historic district can be explored easily on foot.

Walking through Zagreb’s Upper Town, visitors move along cobbled streets lined with pastel façades, historic government buildings, and quiet courtyards. Landmarks such as St. Mark's Church, with its patterned roof, and Stone Gate stand out, while viewpoints near Lotrščak Tower open toward the city below. Along the way, visitors encounter museums, galleries, and traces of medieval walls that reveal the district’s layered past.

As you make your way through these streets, take your time—notice the details in the façades, the quiet corners between landmarks, and the gradual shifts from one square to the next. Continue exploring at your own pace, letting the Upper Town reveal itself step by step.