Lotršcak Tower, Zagreb

The Lotrščak Tower stands on the edge of Zagreb’s Upper Town, a solid reminder of the city’s medieval past. Built in the mid-13th century, around 1266, it formed part of the defensive walls of Gradec, following a demand by Hungarian King Béla IV to strengthen the southern ramparts. Rising about 99 feet, with walls over six feet thick, it guarded the Dverce Gate and served as a lookout. Its bells once warned of fires, storms, the closing of the gates, and approaching Ottoman forces.

The tower’s name comes from the Latin words “thieves’ bell,” which represents the first of its historic highlights. To find this relic, look toward the upper bell chamber within the tower’s top section, where the original bell was rung each evening to signal that the gates were about to close. Over time, as danger receded, the tower shifted roles—serving at various moments as a warehouse, a café, a residence, a gallery, and more—while always remaining city property and occasionally rented out when funds were needed.

It is noon in Zagreb. Each day at that exact hour, the Grič Cannon fires from the tower, a tradition begun in January 1877. This central highlight is located on the fourth floor of the tower; to find it, climb the interior stairs and look for the cannon positioned behind the large window overlooking the Strossmayer Promenade. Legend claims the shot once struck a Turkish pasha’s lunch, while others say it was simply meant to keep the cannon in working order and synchronize the city’s clocks.

Today, visitors can explore small exhibitions on the ground floor and climb to the belvedere for wide views over red-tiled roofs and the lower city. The final highlight is the 360-degree observation deck located at the very top of the structure, accessible by the last set of wooden stairs. Once on this uppermost level, look for panoramic vistas that stretch from the Cathedral spires to the distant Medvednica mountain. Just don’t worry about the cannon—you’re only in danger if you happen to be carrying lunch for a pasha.

Visitors should note that if they are inside the tower at noon, the blast of the cannon is exceptionally loud, so checking the time before reaching the fourth floor is advisable.