Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is situated in the heart of Europe. It has excellent transport links via air, road and train. It’s close and yet different…

WHAT IT IS NOT AND WHAT IT IS

When speaking of Zagreb,
no high praises are necessary
– the truth is sufficient!

Zagreb is not Athens. True!
But Zagreb has the first University and the first Academy
of Arts and Science in this part of Europe!

Zagreb is neither Paris nor London. True! Neither Rodin
nor Henry Moore lived in it. True!
But Zagreb has the Ivan Meštrović Gallery, exhibiting the
works of one of the greatest 20th century sculptors after Rodin!

Zagreb is not Florence. True!
But Zagreb has the world famous Naive Art Gallery!

Zagreb is not Rome. True!
But Zagreb has the St.Stephen’s Cathedral, the highest
and largest church in this part of Europe!

Zagreb is neither Louvre nor Prado. True!
But Zagreb has the Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters
with around 650 works of the greatest painters of all
times, as well as the world famous Topić Mimara
collection of arts!

Zagreb is not Naples. True!
But the Zagreb Archeological Museum houses the
longest Etruscan text in the world!

Zagreb is not Hollywood. True!
But Zagreb has the world famous School of Animated Films!

Zagreb is not the oldest city in Europe. True!
But the 750th anniversary of its proclamation as a free
royal city (celebrated in 1992), the 900th anniversary of the Zagreb
diocese (celebrated in 1994) and, last but not least, the traces of civilizations
that existed in this area 3.000 years ago, show that
Zagreb is one of the oldest European metropolises!

Finally, Zagreb has many distinctive features, treasures,
beauties and rarities, such as the cannon of Grič, the
funicular, the Upper Town – a patina of many centuries,
unique and wonderful atmosphere, food specialties, etc.

Because of all the above mentioned characteristics, Zagreb, the city of friendly people, has always been a special and irresistible challenge to everyone!

Text by courtesy of Zagreb Tourist Board.