Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Location: Kaptol
Zagreb Cathedral is the most famous building in Zagreb. The two spires are a landmark feature of Zagreb and they can be seen from many locations in the city.
The cathedral has existed in some form since the 10th century, although the current Gothic structure was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Since that time many alternations and renovations have been made. Parts of the cathedral were destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, with some sections now in a neo-Gothic style. Most recently, the earthquake of 1880 destroyed large sections of the Cathedral, including the dome and the bell tower. The reconstruction that proceeded after the quake maintained the original medieval design and gave the look and shape of the neogothic style that the cathedral still has today.
Because of the Turkish threat at the end of the 15th century, renaissance fortification system was built all around the cathedral. Some parts of these fortifications are still intact.
The interior shows the architectural influences of many centuries, with Baroque altars tastefully blending with Gothic, Renaissance and neo-Gothic decorative elements. Rounding out the cathedral’s attractions are several exquisite artworks.
The Cathedral Treasury contains fine works of religious art, garments, and objects.
Church of St Mark
Location: Markov trg (Marco’s Square)
This church again represents one of the symbols of Zagreb, especially its colourful roof which is easily recognizable.
That the church was built as early as 13th century, show us the Romanesque window in its south façade and the semicircular plan of St Mary’s chapel. Later it was radically reconstructed and turned into a late Gothic church.
Relatively small by European standards, what makes this church standing out is the unique colourful roof containing the coats of arms representing Zagreb, and the Triune Kingdom of Croatia-Slavonia-Dalmatia.
Interesting is a Gothic doorway by Ivan Parler. It features 15 statues – the 12 apostles, Jesus, Mary, and Saint Mark. The interior contains some statues by the famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.
St. Mark's Church is the parish church of Old Zagreb and today is a favourite place for many couples to get married. Each Saturday in the afternoon you can witness one wedding after the other.
Church of St Catherine
Local name: Crkva sv. KatarineLocation: Katarinin trg (Catherine Square)
The Jesuit church is located in the vicinity of St Marko’s church on Katarinin Square. Square is named after Katarina Zrinska. She was a poetess and the wife of the Croatian viceroy Petar Zrinski. The church itself was also named after her. The church was built in 1632 and was the first sacral Baroque building in Zagreb. It is also the most prominent representation of that style in Zagreb. St Catherine Church is famous for its wall paintings, stucco reliefs, sculptures and other Baroque art.
The church has suffered damage on several occasions from earthquakes but the baroque exterior has remained relatively intact.
Because of its rich Baroque decorations and beautiful pinkish interior, St Catherine Church became favourite especially among female believers.
On the left side from the church is the first Zagreb Gymnasium and on the right side the Jesuit monastery (collegiate), in modern times rebuilt for museum purposes.
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