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The Cibona Tower is a tall building situated in the heart of Zagreb, specifically on Dražen Petrović Square, near the intersection of Savska and Kranjčevićeva streets. It was constructed in 1987 in preparation for the Universiade event hosted in Zagreb that year. The tower's architectural design was the work of Marijan Hržić. It stands at a height of 92 meters (approximately 307 feet) and boasts 25 levels above ground. At its roof, there is a radio mast that extends its total height to 105 meters (about 350 feet). The tower is part of a larger complex that includes various commercial buildings, a basketball hall with a seating capacity of 5,400, and an art installation.

The skyscraper itself takes on a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 25 meters (approximately 83 feet). It gradually tapers in diameter through four stages, culminating with the radio mast. Its facade is constructed using dark steel, fully reflective glass, and black granite. Interestingly, the windows are not fixed in place. The first stage reduction occurs at the 21st floor, followed by the second at the 23rd floor, the third at the 24th floor, and the final reduction at the 25th floor. The stability of the tower is ensured by 26 reinforced concrete pylons along its rim, making it resilient against a Richter scale earthquake with a magnitude of 7° and even the impact of a smaller aircraft.

The Zagreb Botanical Garden, established in 1889 by University of Zagreb Professor Antun Heinz, is situated in the heart of Zagreb. It officially opened in 1891 and is a part of the University's Faculty of Science. Spanning approximately five hectares, the garden sits 120 meters above sea level and hosts a diverse collection of over 10,000 plant species, including 1,800 exotic varieties.

A notable feature of the garden is its arboretum, which mimics the design of traditional English landscape gardens and showcases a wide array of trees and shrubs from across the globe. The western section near the glasshouses displays a flower parterre arranged in the French style, known for its precise geometric patterns, including a variety of annuals, perennials, and roses.

The garden also focuses on the native flora of Croatia, organizing indigenous plants in a manner reflective of their natural geography, such as in rock gardens. The greenhouses, numbering 14, house tropical and subtropical plants, as well as specimens used for academic research. Additionally, the garden features man-made lakes and pools that support marsh plants, and a systematic field dedicated to educational purposes, particularly for university students and lectures.

Located centrally in Zagreb, the Botanical Garden is easily accessible, being just one tram stop from the Central Railway Station or a brief 10-minute walk from Jelacic Square. Visitors can enter through the northern side along Mihanoviceva Street, at the end of Gundulićeva Street.

Why You Should Visit:
Admission is free and there are fun things designed for kids. So if you want to rewind or entertain your little ones, this is a good place to visit.

The Croatian State Archives, situated in Zagreb, the nation's capital, serve as Croatia's primary archival institution. Housed in a UNESCO-recognized Art Nouveau structure, this establishment stands as one of Zagreb's architectural gems, safeguarding Croatia's most significant documents. While the Archives' written collections may not captivate most English-speaking tourists, the building's architectural magnificence appeals universally. It boasts a richly decorated lobby and atrium, replete with elaborate mosaics, sophisticated ironwork, ornate leaded glass, and polished marble. These areas also host art exhibitions, enhancing their already splendid ambience. The building's exterior is complemented by a meticulously designed park, featuring a notable sculpture by Ivan Mestrovic.

The origins of the Croatian State Archives date back to a 1643 directive from the Croatian Sabor (Parliament), instructing the Kingdom's treasurer, Ivan Zakmardi, to compile a comprehensive list of all legal documents and charters. This led to the creation of a special chest, funded by the Kingdom, intended to store these vital documents. However, the chest was largely symbolic, with limited capacity, and was initially placed at the Bishopric of Zagreb. Over time, numerous laws and regulations were enacted to manage document archiving.

In 1744, Ladislaus Kiraly was appointed as the Kingdom's first official archivist. The chest, along with other documents, was relocated in 1763 to Saint Mark's square, marking a significant step in the evolution of the Croatian archival system.

Republic of Croatia Square stands as one of the largest squares in Zagreb, situated in the Lower Town area with the Croatian National Theatre building serving as its central landmark. It is often touted as Zagreb's most exquisite square.

The square we see today took shape over a period spanning from 1856, marked by the construction of a former hospital on its northern side, to 1964, when the Ferimport building was erected on its western flank. However, the majority of the buildings that grace the square were constructed during the late 19th century, adhering to the historicist style of architecture.

Republic of Croatia Square is part of a trio of squares that together compose the western section of what is known as Lenuci's Horseshoe, a U-shaped arrangement of squares and parks. On the eastern side of this formation lie King Tomislav, Strossmayer, and Zrinski squares, while the western side is formed by Marulić, Mažuranić, and Republic of Croatia squares, with the Botanical Garden serving as the connecting element between them. Within this square, one can find several cultural and educational institutions, as well as notable sculptures that add to its character.

The Croatian National Theatre is a cultural institution in Zagreb that encompasses theater, opera, and ballet performances. Its origins can be traced back to 1834 when the first city theater was established in what is now the Old City Hall. However, it officially became the Croatian National Theatre in 1860 and received government support in 1861, elevating it to the status of other prominent European national theaters. In 1870, an opera company was integrated into the theater, and in 1895, it relocated to its present location on Republic of Croatia Square in Zagreb's Lower Town.

Emperor Franz Joseph I of the Austro-Hungarian Empire attended the inauguration of this new building during his visit to the city in 1895. This architectural masterpiece was designed by renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Herman Helmer, who had previously created several theaters in Vienna. The theater's entrance is adorned with a wall fountain called "The Source of Life" (Zdenac života), which was designed by Croatian artist and sculptor Ivan Meštrović in 1905.

Throughout its history, the theater has been home to numerous prominent Croatian artists. Its initial manager and dramatist was the Greek-Croatian poet Dimitrija Demeter, a key figure in the Croatian national revival movement, with Ivan Zajc serving as the first conductor. Notable figures like Branko Gavella, the renowned Croatian theater director, and Mia Čorak Slavenska, the first Croatian prima ballerina, began their careers at this institution.

Over the years, the theater has welcomed numerous international artists, including Franz Liszt, Sarah Bernhardt, Franz Lehár, Richard Strauss, Gérard Philipe, Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, Jean-Louis Barrault, Peter Brook, Mario Del Monaco, and José Carreras.

Why You Should Visit:
It is a gorgeous building in a park-like setting, surrounded by other beautiful buildings. If you are lucky, you may catch a performance and get a chance to see its equally gorgeous interiors, too.

Gavella Drama Theatre, along with the Croatian National Theatre's Drama, stands as a unique cultural institution in Zagreb, dedicated explicitly to dramatic arts. This theater balances local Croatian plays with global dramatic classics, embracing a variety of genres and perspectives. They aim to develop shows that not only entertain but also challenge societal norms and artistic values, continuing the legacy of their founder, Dr. Branko Gavella.

The Gavella Drama Theater, originally known as the Zagreb Drama Theater, was established in 1953 by a group of young actors and directors in collaboration with the local branch of the Croatian National Theater. Their primary goal was to introduce a fresh approach to theater, distinct from the traditional productions of the parent theater. This innovative idea was conceived by Dr. Branko Gavella (1885–1962), a multi-talented figure in the world of theater who served as a director, manager, educator, theatrologist, theater critic, and translator.

Over the years, Gavella Drama Theater has become one of Croatia's most esteemed theater companies, known for its "collective acting" concept inherited from its founder, Dr. Branko Gavella. The theater's well-designed venue allows actors to express themselves fully on stage. In 1992, the theater was renamed in Dr. Gavella's honor, cementing its status in Croatian culture.

Since 1953, Gavella Theatre has been a fixture in Frankopanska street, debuting around 400 plays, with some remaining popular for over a decade. Known beyond Croatia, they regularly perform at other venues and have gained acclaim at major international theater festivals. The ensemble, comprising 38 talented actors, has recently welcomed new, younger members, adding fresh dynamics to their performances.

D. W. Klein, a contractor from Osijek, won a commission to build a funicular in Zagreb in 1888. The system opened in 1890. At first, a steam engine was used to propel the cars, but the pressure was too low, and breakdowns were frequent. Electric power replaced steam at the little railroad in 1934. Rejoice. The funicular is the safest, most dependable transportation in Zagreb.

The funicular connects the Upper and Lower towns of Zagreb. The lower station is on Tomiceva Street, just off Ilica Street, the longest street in the city. The upper terminal is at the foot of Lotrscak Tower at Strossmayer's Promenade in Upper Town. The funicular replaces the wooden steps built by urban planner Milan Lenuci.

The system uses two wagons. Each wagon has 16 seats and 12 spaces for a standing room. It travels at 1.5 meters per minute. Each journey lasts just over a minute. There are two tracks, one wagon on each track. It has moved presidents, bishops, and kings, including present King Charles III of the United Kingdom and his Queen Consort Camilla.

The Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb is a unique museum dedicated to failed love relationships. This museum showcases personal items left behind by former lovers along with brief descriptions of the relationships. The museum started as a traveling collection of donated items and later found a permanent location in Zagreb.

The exhibits in the museum are categorized into several segments. The "material remains layout" includes objects and documents like photographs, letters, and messages with dates and locations of the relationships. Annotations by anonymous donors accompany each item. Due to physical space constraints, older exhibits may be archived and transferred to the virtual part of the museum.

The "virtual web museum" allows registered visitors to become donors by uploading their images and documents. Donors have the option to open their personal collections for viewing by other users of the museum.

The interactive part of the museum is called the "confessional." Visitors can store their objects or messages or record their confessions in a restricted and intimate space.

Overall, the Museum of Broken Relationships is an emotional experience that showcases the many facets of human relationships and the objects that come to represent them.

Presidential Palace is a historic structure situated on the western side of Saint Mark's Square in Zagreb. It has played several important roles throughout its history. Initially, it served as the official residence for the Croatian Bans (viceroys), but today it serves as the residence of the Croatian Government.

The Presidential Palace is a two-story baroque building that was constructed by Ignaz Gyulai in the first half of the 19th century. It served as the residence for Croatian bans from 1809 to 1918, which is why it acquired the name "Banski Dvori," meaning "Ban's Court." During this period, it also housed the Tabula Banalis and later the Royal Court Table. Notably, Ban Josip Jelačić, after whom Ban Jelačić Square is named, resided in Ban's Court.

During World War II and the period known as the Independent State of Croatia (1941–1945), it served as the office for Poglavnik Ante Pavelić and was referred to as Poglavnik's Court. From 1945 to 1991, during the existence of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFR Yugoslavia), Ban's Court was the official residence for the Presidency of the Socialist Republic of Croatia.

In May 1990, it became the official residence for the President and the Government of Croatia. An important historical event occurred on October 7, 1991, when the Yugoslav People's Army carried out an airstrike targeting President Franjo Tuđman, President of the Presidency of Yugoslavia Stipe Mesić, and President of the Federal Executive Council of Yugoslavia Ante Marković. Fortunately, all of them survived the attack. The following day, the Croatian Parliament declared Croatia's independence from Yugoslavia. In 1992, the President's residence was moved to the Presidential Palace, marking an important chapter in the building's history.

It is claimed by some that Saint Mark's Church in Saint Mark's Square is the oldest architectural monument in Zagreb. The evidence says maybe so or maybe not. The distinctly Romanesque window on the south facade strongly suggests the 13th century. Saint Mary's Chapel has a semicircular ground plan that indicates the same.

Here's the spoiler. In the 14th century, the church was rebuilt. It became a plain, three-nave Gothic church, ergo, not so old. The ribbed vaults are supported by stout columns. The intricately sculpted south portal has 15 figures of the Holy Family, Saint Mark, and the Apostles in niches. It is the richest Gothic portal in Central Europe.

The roof tiles, laid in 1880 by architects Friedrich von Schmidt and Herman Bolle, bear the coats of arms of Zagreb and the Triune Kingdom of Croatia. Inside are sculptures by artists Ivan Mestrovic, Jozo Kljakovic, and Ljubo Babic. There are renovated frescoes and a gilded 22-carat gold leaf ceiling.

Saint Mark's Church is in the center of Saint Mark's Square. Surrounding the square are the Banski Dvori (Ban's Court) seat of the government of Croatia, the Parliament, and the Constitutional Court of Croatia. The Old City Hall, on the corner of the square and Ciril and Metod Streets, is where the City Council meets.

The Saint Mark's Square was renovated in 2006. The ban on demonstrations in the square was lifted a bit in 2012. Until 2020 it was the site of the inaugurations of Croatian presidents. In 2020 Zoran Milanovic took his oath in the Presidential Palace.

The 2020 shooting, or the Saint Mark's Square attack, was the work of Danijel Bezuk, a 22-year-old, self-styled right wing sniper. Bezuk attacked a police officer at the Constitutional Court using an AK-74 automatic rifle. Police in the square returned fire. Bezuk fled to Jabukovak Street, where he took his own life.

Saint Mark's Square was still closed off as of 2023. Its closure has had a negative economic impact on the neighborhood. There is hope for better days.

In 1242 Gradec, now Zagreb, was declared a free royal city with the right to self-government. As this might make the city a target, it had to be surrounded by walls with access only through fortified gates. These days the only gate left standing is the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata), believed to have been built in 1266.

The Stone Gate is a rectangular one-story entrance tower in the wall of the town. The difference being there is, at present, no wall. Loopholes on the northern and western facades are from the 16th century. There is a tunnel access through the center of the building at ground level for vehicular passage.

In 1731, the fire destroyed most of Zagreb. At the time, a shrine in the Stone Gate held a painting of the Virgin with the baby Jesus. It had not been touched by the fire. This may or not have been a "miracle," but every day, someone comes to the shrine, lights a candle, and utters a prayer to the Mother of God.

Another item in the Stone Gate is a small figure of Dora Krupiceva, a character from the 1871 novel, "The Goldsmith's Gold" by Zagreb author August Senoa. Dora is holding the keys to the city.

Tkalciceva Street was once the course of Medvescak Creek, creating the border between the twin settlements of Gradec and Kaptol. Since the earliest days of the city, the Medvescak had supported water mills along its length. The mills were the basis of Zagreb's industry, producing cloth, paper, soap, liquor, and leather.

Competition among the mills triggered feuds between Kaptol and Gradec. A treaty of 1392 limited the construction of new mills on the shared border. That left only two mills within the city, both owned by the Cistercian Monastery. The creek was covered over, and the mills were demolished in 1898. The result was the creation of a street named Creek Street.

In 1913, Creek Street (Ulica Potok) was renamed Tkalciceva Street in honor of historian and priest Ivan Tkalcic, who had died in 1905. Most of the houses on Tkalciceva Street date from the 18th or 19th century. The creek now serves as part of the Zagreb sewer system, but it had been a source of power to the Medvescak Fountain.

The street runs parallel to and in between Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and New Village (Nova Ves). It reaches Ban Jelacic Square to Little Street (Mala Ulica). Initially, it had been paved with gravel taken from the Sala River. In the 20th century, it was resurfaced with asphalt. Small businesses replaced the mills, and the leather industry closed shop in 1938.

Tkalciceva Street was a "red light" district in the early 20th century. Prostitution was legal, and the street was a popular tourist attraction. Every other house was a brothel. The most high-toned house was the Kod Zelene Lampe (Green Lantern). The sex business went the way of the mills and the leather shops with the coming of WW II.

Ban Jelacic Square is named for Josip Jelacic, Ban (ruler) of Croatia and leader of Croatian independence from Austria in the 19th century. The name, locally, is Jelacic Plac. It is in the center of Zagreb's downtown pedestrian zone. It is located below the early medieval settlements of Gradec (1242) and Kaptol (1094), south of Dolac Market.

In 1641 it became necessary to create a new marketplace outside the old nucleus of Gradec and Kaptol, near the spring of Mandusevec. Initially called Mandusevec, the square's name was later changed to Harmica. The square became Ban Jelacic Plac in 1848.

A statue of Josip Jelacic on his horse, created by Austrian sculptor Anton Dominik Fernkorn, was erected by the Austrian administration. In 1947 it was removed by the Communist authorities, who renamed the place "Republic Square."

When the World University Games were held in Zagreb in 1987, the city was renovated and revitalized. The square was repaved in stone blocks and pedestrianized. The Mandusevec Fountain and the Mandusevec Spring, buried in 1898, were uncovered. In 1990 the Communists era ended, and Josip Jelacic, on his trusty steed, returned to the square.

At Christmas time, Ban Jelacic Square is adorned with trees and lights illuminate the facades of the surrounding antique Classicist, Secessionist, and Modernist buildings.

Nikola Šubić Zrinski Square, commonly referred to as Zrinjevac, is a central and prominent area in Zagreb. Covering an area of about 12,540 square meters, it is surrounded by important buildings such as Croatia's Supreme Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, and the Zagreb Archaeological Museum. This square bears the name of Nikola Šubić Zrinski, who was a Croatian-Hungarian nobleman and military leader. He served as the Ban of Croatia from 1542 to 1556 and was a member of the prominent Croatian noble families Zrinski and Kurjaković. During his lifetime, the Zrinski family rose to become the most influential noble family in the Kingdom of Croatia.

Situated close to the central Ban Jelačić Square and on the way to the Main Railway Station, Nikola Šubić Zrinski Square is a key part of Zagreb's Green Horseshoe. This is a network of seven squares in the Lower Town area. The southern section of the square features busts of important Croatian figures, including Julije Klović, Andrija Medulić, Fran Krsto Frankopan, Nikola Jurišić, Ivan Kukuljević Sakcinski, and Ivan Mažuranić.

A notable feature of the square is its music pavilion, established in 1891 as a gift from Eduard Prister, a wealthy trader. The square, with its well-maintained gardens, old trees, and beautiful fountains, serves as a favorite leisure spot for locals. Visitors often enjoy leisurely walks along its tree-lined paths or relax on benches, taking in the serene environment, fountain views, and the scent of fresh flowers.

King Tomislav Square is a meticulously maintained public area, surrounded by lush trees and vibrant flowerbeds, and is highlighted by the striking yellow exterior of the Art Pavilion. It's adjacent to an underground shopping center and faces the bustling central train station, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Originally named after Franz Joseph I, the square was renamed to honor King Tomislav post the Austro-Hungarian Empire's dissolution. Tomislav is celebrated for unifying the Croatian regions of Dalmatia and Pannonia, forming the Kingdom of Croatia. A prominent monument, unveiled in 1947, stands in the square, showcasing King Tomislav on horseback atop a substantial base.

The north end of the square features the Art Pavilion, an architectural marvel that fuses classical design with elements of Art Nouveau. On sunny summer days, the square is a favorite spot for locals to bask in the sun and relax on the grass. You can rest on a bench near the central fountain or walk along the perimeter paths, admiring the meticulously kept flower beds.

In winter, the square transforms with an ice rink and trees adorned with fairy lights, creating a festive atmosphere. The square remains open to the public at all times. For a different experience, visit at night when the Art Pavilion is lit up, bathing the northern end of the square in a warm, golden light.

Fascism Victims Square (Trg Žrtava Fašizma) holds a prominent position in Zagreb, serving as a central hub. This square is located at the crossroads of six different streets. It stands as a symbol of the intense struggle for Croatia's independence following World War II, a period marked by significant loss of life. The square retains its name in honor of the more than 16,000 Croatians who were tragically sent to concentration camps during that time.

The square's layout is defined by four distinctive residential and partially commercial buildings. Vehicle and tram traffic circulates counterclockwise, with a tram roundabout encircling the square's perimeter. At the heart of the square lies a green area, featuring a structure known as the Meštrović Pavilion. This building boasts a circular design with a colonnade surrounding its outer edge and a low dome, making it a distinctive landmark within the square.

The Meštrović Pavilion, also referred to as the Home of Croatian Artists and informally known as the Mosque, serves as a cultural venue and the official headquarters of the Croatian Society of Fine Artists (HDLU). Designed by Ivan Meštrović and constructed in 1938, it has had various roles over the years. Initially functioning as an art gallery before World War II, it was repurposed as a mosque during the Independent State of Croatia and later became the Museum of the Revolution during post-war Yugoslavia. In 1990, ownership was returned to the Croatian Association of Artists. Following extensive renovation, it has been used as a space for exhibitions and events since 2006.

In 1093, king and warrior-saint Ladislaus I of Hungary moved the seat of a bishop from Sisak to Zagreb. He declared the church in Zagreb to be a cathedral. Reconstruction began at once and continued after the death of Ladislaus in 1095. The Zagreb Cathedral was consecrated by King Andrew II of Hungary in 1217.

The building was destroyed by Mongol invaders in 1242 and rebuilt shortly thereafter. The continuing threat of the Ottoman Empire prompted the structure of walls and a watchtower. The cathedral was rebuilt again after the earthquake of 1880. It was restored in its present Neo-Gothic form by Franco-German architect Hermann Bolle.

Dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the building, looming over the city, is the tallest in Croatia. On the main facade, the tympanum between the bell towers depicts the Virgin and Child and two angels. On both sides of the entry are statues of saints Methodius, George, Barbara, Catherine, Florian, and Cyril.

Above the doorway, the statue of Christ is flanked by the sainted kings Stephen and Ladislaus. Inside, the high altar portrays the Holy Family. Light from stained glass windows illuminate the tomb of the martyred Cardinal Aloysius Stepinac. There is a relief inside the cathedral by sculptor Ivan Mestrovic of the Cardinal with Christ.

Gornji Grad–Medveščak (Upper Town–Medveščak ), one of Zagreb districts, is known as "Upper Town" for its elevated position above the "Lower Town" or Donji Grad. Centrally located, it had a population of 30,962 across an area of 10.19 square kilometers.

This district is notable for its many historical landmarks and tourist spots. It includes Gradec and Kaptol, two medieval areas that now make up the Upper Town. Key sites in Upper Town include the city's Cathedral, Saint Mark's Church, and the Croatian Parliament, alongside Tkalčićeva, a popular café-lined pedestrian street. The district also houses significant sites like the Mirogoj cemetery, established in 1876, located further north.

The main road in the district runs from south to north, starting as Ribnjak street near Ribnjak park, becoming wider and renamed as Medveščak street, and later becoming Ksaver in the north. This road is a key tram route for the district, with lines 8 and 14 serving Medveščak. Other important tram lines run along Ilica, Jurišićeva, and Vlaška streets in the southern part. The historic Zagreb funicular connects the Lower and Upper towns, and there are also bus routes, though less frequent, through the hillier, sparsely populated northern areas.

Why You Should Visit:
Gornji Grad is the oldest part of Zagreb, a must-see for anyone visiting the city. There is a lot to see and do here so take your time to explore the area.