About Zagreb

ABOUT ZAGREB
History and modern Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia, situated in the northwestern part of the
country, on the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain. With a population of around
800,000 inhabitants, it is the political, cultural, and economic center of Croatia. The city
covers an area of approximately 641 square kilometers. Zagreb is a historical city, dating
back to the Roman times, and has a rich cultural heritage. It is home to numerous museums,
galleries, and theaters, as well as several universities and research institutions. The city is
divided into two parts: the Upper Town, which is the historical and cultural heart of the city,
and the Lower Town, which is the modern commercial center. The city is also known for its
delicious cuisine and lively nightlife, making it a popular destination for travelers from all
over the world.
Zagreb has a long and complex history, dating back to the Roman times when the settlement
of Andautonia was established in the area. However, it wasn't until the 11th century that the
city itself was founded as two separate settlements - Kaptol and Gradec. Kaptol was the
religious center of the city, home to the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and
the Archbishop's Palace, while Gradec was the secular center, with its own fortified walls,
towers, and gates.
In the following centuries, the two settlements merged and grew into a prosperous city,
becoming the capital of Croatia in 1557. The 17th and 18th centuries were marked by
economic growth and cultural development, with the construction of numerous palaces,
churches, and public buildings.
In the 19th century, Zagreb became an important center of Croatian national revival and
played a significant role in the country's struggle for independence from the Austro-
Hungarian Empire. The city was also heavily damaged during World War II, with many
historic buildings and landmarks destroyed.
After the war, Zagreb became the capital of the Socialist Republic of Croatia, part of
Yugoslavia, and underwent significant urban development. This included the construction of
large housing projects, such as the Novi Zagreb neighborhood, and the expansion of cultural
and educational institutions, such as the University of Zagreb and the Croatian National
Theatre.
Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Zagreb became the capital of the
newly independent Republic of Croatia, and has since experienced significant economic and
cultural growth. Today, the city is a vibrant hub of art, culture, and innovation, while also
preserving its rich historical heritage.
Modern Zagreb is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, with a thriving cultural scene, a vibrant
nightlife, and a diverse economy. In recent years, the city has undergone significant
transformation, with the development of new infrastructure, public spaces, and architectural
landmarks. One of the most notable examples is the Museum of Contemporary Art, a striking
building located in the Novi Zagreb neighborhood, which has become a symbol of the city's
modernity and cultural sophistication.
Zagreb is also home to a growing startup community, with numerous tech companies and
incubators operating in the city. This has helped to drive innovation and entrepreneurship,
and has attracted a young and talented workforce to the city. In addition, the city has a strong
tradition of creative industries, such as design, fashion, and media, which contribute to its
dynamic and diverse cultural landscape.
At the same time, Zagreb remains deeply connected to its rich historical and cultural heritage,
with numerous museums, galleries, and landmarks that showcase the city's past and present.
This includes the Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark's Church, and the historic Upper Town, which
are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. Overall, modern Zagreb is a city that
combines the best of both worlds - a vibrant and innovative present, and a rich and
fascinating history.
Most notable sights
Zagreb is a city rich in cultural sights, with numerous landmarks and attractions that
showcase its history and heritage. The city is home to several beautiful fountains, including
the iconic Manduševac Fountain, which is located in the heart of the city and is said to be the
source of Zagreb's drinking water. Visitors can also explore the many parks and lakes in and
around Zagreb, including Jarun Lake, which is popular for swimming, boating, and other
recreational activities. The Lenuci Horseshoe, a series of interconnected parks and squares
that form a horseshoe shape around the city center, is another must-see attraction.
Zagreb's rich religious heritage is evident in landmarks such as the Cathedral of the
Assumption of the Virgin Mary, one of the city's most important architectural landmarks, and
the beautiful Church of St. Mark's, famous for its colorful tiled roof. The Kamenita Vrata
(Stone Gate) is another important religious landmark, believed to have miraculous powers.
Other cultural highlights include the Dolac Market, a bustling open-air market that offers a
variety of local produce and products, and the Croatian National Theatre (HNK), which hosts
opera, ballet, and theater performances
Zagreb is famous as the city with most museums per unit of area. Some of the most popular
museums include:
1. Museum of Broken Relationships: This unique museum displays a collection of

personal items donated by individuals from around the world, each one telling the
story of a failed romantic relationship.
2. Zagreb City Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of
Zagreb, from its earliest days to the present.
3. Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum houses a vast collection of modern and
contemporary art from Croatia and around the world.
4. Croatian Natural History Museum: This museum features exhibits on natural history,
geology, and biology, including a collection of dinosaur fossils.
5. Museum of Arts and Crafts: This museum features a vast collection of decorative arts,
including ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and furniture, as well as exhibits on the
history of industrial design in Croatia.
6. Technical Museum Nikola Tesla: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of
Nikola Tesla, one of the greatest inventors of all time.
7. Ethnographic Museum: This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Croatia
and its people through exhibits on traditional costumes, folk art, and handicrafts.
The Maketa (Model) of the city provides a unique perspective on the city's layout and
development. The Blood Bridge (Krvavi Most) and the Zrinjevac Park are other notable
landmarks that provide insight into the city's history.
For those interested in legends, the Legend of Zagreb, which tells the story of the city's
founding, is a must-read. The Grič Tunnel, a former WWII-era bomb shelter that has been
transformed into an art space, is another fascinating attraction. Finally, the Tkalčićeva Streett
is a lively destination that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a popular
spot for locals and tourists alike.

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About Zagreb

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ABOUT ZAGREB

History and modern Zagreb

Most notable sights

1. Museum of Broken Relationships: This unique museum displays a collection of

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