A walk through the Upper Town – the history and charm of Zagreb

The Upper Town in Zagreb represents the historical and cultural heart of the city, a place where architecture, tradition, and contemporary life come together in a unique experience. Narrow cobblestone streets, charming cafés, and historic buildings make this district ideal for walking and discovering cultural and historical landmarks.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the Upper Town, including the most important attractions, interesting facts, cultural events, and coworking spaces, so that visitors can make the most of their time in this unique part of Zagreb.

Historical landmarks of the Upper Town

The Upper Town is rich in historical symbols that tell stories of Zagreb’s rich past. In addition to the Lotrščak Tower and the Strossmayer Promenade, it is worth mentioning St. Mark’s Church, the Stone Gate, and a number of museums and galleries that preserve cultural heritage (History of Zagreb, Zagreb City Museum, 2022).

Lotrščak Tower

Lotrščak Tower is not only a historical symbol of Zagreb’s defense, but also a place that hides many interesting stories. Every day at noon, the tower’s bell marks the traditional cannon event, known among the citizens of Zagreb and tourists. This ritual dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes the end of the working day while reminding of the importance of the tower’s historical role.

Interesting facts:

Throughout history, the tower served as a guard and defensive point, as well as a bell tower for the city guard (History of Zagreb, Zagreb City Museum, 2022).
Every year, special events are held at Lotrščak, such as cultural tours and historical reenactments (Upper Town Cultural Guide, City Administration of Zagreb, 2023).
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy a panoramic view of Zagreb, which is one of the most photogenic locations in the Upper Town.

Strossmayer Promenade

Details and interesting facts:

During the summer, the promenade becomes a venue for artistic performances, concerts, and open-air exhibitions, and many local artists display their works here.
The promenade is known for its “art colony” atmosphere, where musicians, painters, and photographers meet, creating an inspiring environment for visitors.
In autumn and winter, Strossmayer Promenade is recognizable for its light installations and events such as “Night of Museums” and local light festivals.
It is a popular place for selfies and panoramic city photos, as well as for cultural walks in the evening hours, when the city takes on a special magical atmosphere.

Urban legends and interesting facts:

Many visitors talk about old stories of Zagreb residents who allegedly hid secret passages beneath the promenade.
For centuries, the promenade has been a meeting place for intellectuals and artists, and today it continues this tradition through various cultural events and workshops.

St. Mark’s Church and St. Mark’s Square

St. Mark’s Square is one of the most famous places in Zagreb, recognizable for the colorful roof of St. Mark’s Church, which depicts the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Triune Kingdom. This square is more than just a visual impression – it is a place that pulses with history and stories that have shaped the Upper Town (Croatian History through Architecture, 2021).

Architecture and interesting facts:

The square is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Croatian Parliament building and the Old Town, making it the center of the city’s political and cultural life.
The square is often a venue for public events, manifestations, and cultural performances.

Urban legends:

According to one legend, the walls around the square hid secret passages through which nobles and merchants moved in the past.
Paranormal enthusiasts often mention secret stories about mysterious figures and “ghosts of the past” wandering through the old streets around the square, which adds charm and intrigue to every walk.

Stone Gate

The Stone Gate is one of the few surviving city gates of Zagreb and is considered a sacred place for the local population. Built in the 18th century, the gate originally served as the main entrance to the Upper Town and a defensive point, but over the centuries it has also become a place of spiritual significance (History of Church Architecture, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2020).

Interesting facts and traditions:

The interior of the gate contains the famous icon of the Virgin Mary, which many visitors consider miraculous. Locals often light candles and pray for health and happiness.
The Stone Gate survived major fires in Zagreb, including the fire of 1731, which is why it has become a symbol of the city’s resilience and protection.
Every year, especially during holidays, cultural tours and historical reenactments are organized, telling stories of old Zagreb.
Visitors are allowed to photograph the interior and admire the architecture, which combines Baroque and sacred elements.

Museums and Galleries

The Upper Town offers a rich selection of museums and galleries:

Zagreb City Museum – the history and development of the city through the centuries
Klovićevi Dvori – exhibitions of contemporary and classical art
Archaeological Museum – exhibitions showcasing the region’s historical heritage

These spaces provide additional depth to the cultural experience, and many of them offer interactive guides and audio tours.

A Walk through the Upper Town: Tips and Routes

Walking through the Upper Town offers an authentic experience of historic streets and the local atmosphere.

Planning your route: Combine main attractions such as Lotrščak Tower, St. Mark’s Church, and Strossmayer Promenade with lesser-known spots like St. Mark’s Square and the Stone Gate.
Enjoying local cuisine: Cafés and restaurants offer traditional dishes and specialties, such as štrukli and local pastries.
Guided tours: Tours with a guide provide a deeper understanding of the city’s history, anecdotes, and cultural stories.

Interesting fact: During the summer, “night walks” are organized through the Upper Town, featuring stories about old Zagreb legends and urban myths.

Self-Guided Walking Tours in Historical Cities

This research will be used to interrogate how walking tours coax the tourist towards a specific vision of the historical city and what this says about the tourist image of the living city.

Representing History Underfoot: An Analysis of the Approach to History on Self-Guided Walking Tours in Tokyo, Florence, and Vienna, 2024

Cultural Events in the Upper Town

Advent in Zagreb – Christmas market, concerts, and artistic installations
Festival of Light – a multimedia art event illuminating historic buildings
Street exhibitions and performances – creative presentations by local artists throughout the year

These events make the Upper Town lively and allow visitors to experience the city through art, music, and local tradition.

Additional Tips for Visiting the Upper Town

For an optimal walking experience in the Upper Town, we recommend:

Wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for cobblestone streets
Bringing a camera – the panoramas and architecture are spectacular
Checking the cultural events calendar before your visit
Taking the opportunity for a mini-picnic on Strossmayer Promenade

Coworking Spaces Near the Upper Town

For professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a combination of inspiration and productivity, the Upper Town offers coworking spaces such as Cowork Zagreb.

Inspiration: Proximity to cultural attractions stimulates creativity
Networking: Exchange ideas and collaborate with other professionals
Flexibility: Private offices, hot desks, and daily rentals
Location: Situated near main landmarks, ideal for combining work and culture

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main attractions of the Upper Town?
Lotrščak Tower, Strossmayer Promenade, St. Mark’s Church, Stone Gate, museums, and galleries.
Are there coworking spaces near the Upper Town?
Yes, Cowork Zagreb offers private offices and hot desks in close proximity to cultural landmarks.
Which are the most popular festivals in the Upper Town?
Advent in Zagreb and the Festival of Light are the most well-known, but there are also street exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
How can I best plan a walk through the Upper Town?
Plan a route that includes the main attractions, but leave room for spontaneous visits and enjoying the local culture.