Our first date, Zagreb style
''Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name, but what's puzzling you is the nature of my game''. Before we get into a singalong, let me introduce myself. I am the capital of Croatia, my name is Zagreb! Why am I so interesting you ask? In the last 2 years, I have been nominated two times for the best European destination, and this does not surprise me if you take into consideration everything I have to offer! Cheers to my friends Porto and Bordeaux, going to take the title next year guys! Let’s start with my history.
Although I am really old, I feel like I can conquer the world and that my true times of glory are yet to come. My origins date back to the 11th century, at least the documented ones. There is some indication I was here long before that, but I do not need to brag about it.
Probably the best way to notice my growth is by observing the architecture, from the medieval part Kaptol, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Zagreb, and merchant Upper town, beautiful arcades of Mirogoj cemetery to modern buildings such as the Museum Of Contemporary Art or shopping malls on every corner. If I said that my adolescent days were turbulent, it would be an understatement. Everybody wanted to have me or, better said claim me, as their own: Hungarians, Austrians, Turks.. All of them made me the city I am today. Thanks to them, I have some decorations that nowadays are one of the biggest tourist attractions. Check out my fortification in the Upper town with Lotrscak Tower and Stone gate or the Cathedral that was erected almost 10 centuries ago.
Croatian National Theatre. Photo by Filip Donadić
Don’t like history? Well, I’ve got plenty more to offer. Geographically, I am not large, but I am full of parks and green surfaces, and I proudly present Jarun and Bundek lakes. I am so cool that I have aligned parks in a shape of a horseshoe in the town center. It is a perfect getaway from sometimes hectic dynamics of the city; you can always be one with nature. On top of all of this, I have the mountain Medvednica with beautiful panoramic views and hiking trails.
You could say I am a small city with a big heart, and this is what counts! But what truly makes me complete and unique are my people. My ''crew'' is diverse because I have people from all over Croatia roaming my streets. It is a mixture of diverse mentality from all Croatian regions living in harmony. The product of this is a '' friendly vibe'' that you feel immediately. The citizens of Zagreb – Purgeri, are one of the most hospitable people in Europe. Do not be shy or scared and simply approach them. The majority of them like to talk about me, and I guarantee you that you will get 50 different stories from 50 different people. Maybe their stories will lead you to some of my hidden gems that are not in the tourist brochures. Take a chance on me because I have a lot of faces and can easily adapt to your needs and interests.
The people regularly enjoy life and are accustomed to excellent food, wine, and nightlife. My gastronomy is colorful with traditional dishes such as ”purica s mlincima” or ”štrukle”. Open market Dolac is not famous only for fresh fruit, vegetables, and red umbrella 'Šestinski kišobran'' but also for Jackie Chan. Don't believe me? Just watch ''Armour of God'' movie that was filmed here. I am a vibrant city. So, even during working hours, you will see a lot of people having drinks in numerous cafés while chit-chatting about life.
Skalinska street. Photo by Filip Donadić
There is always life and joy on my streets. Take a ride on my blue tram or experience the shortest funicular in the world. All that I've mentioned so far is just a glimpse of what I can offer. True players do not share and reveal everything on the first date. So what are you waiting for, come and meet me! I am a new star in the European sky!
I promise you, I will remain in your memory.
Header image: Filip Donadić
Author: Filip Donadić