Zagreb Cathedral Croatia

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Zagreb Cathedral - The full name is The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Probably the most famous landmark in all of Zagreb as it can be seen from all parts of the city. Located in the Kaptol district of the upper town not too far from the Dolac Market. Constructed between the 13th and 15th century but some form of the cathedral dates back to the 10th century, now we're talking history here.
The left tower is currently shrowded in scaffolding as repair work seems to be going on.

After a short visit to the Cathedral it was on to the Dolac Market - A traditional market with fresh fish, meat, vegetables, fruit and other produce, in the Kaptol District. Make sure you visit the flower market that is attached to the main market as well.
Westward from the market I entered Kamenita Vrata Gate or "Stone Gate" It is the last remaining ancient city gate in Zagreb and was once the entrance to the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) district. It has been in existence since the middle ages. Inside is a small chapel that was constructed after a fire in 1731 destroyed all buildings around Stone Gate but left a picture of Mother Mary intact. The people of Zagreb believed this was a miracle and built the chapel to protect the painting. Today the painting is secured behind a metal grille and countless visitors coming to pray and leave gifts or light candles, quite a moving experience.

Continuing along I come across St. Mark's Church and the Croatian Parliament buildings. Built in the 13th century the church has undergone numerous architectural changes. Today you can't mistake the church for another, as its colorful tiled roof depicts the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia on the left and the coat of arms of the city of Zagreb on the right.

If you are in Zagreb at noon time make sure you head over to Lotrscak Tower built in the 13th century, it's just south of St. Mark's Church and over looks the lower town. Every day precisely at noon a cannon is fired and the locals set their watches to it. You can climb the tower for a few Kunas and get some great views.

Directly underneath the tower is the funicular of Zagreb one of the shortest and steepest funicular railways in the world. Hop on board and it will take you down to Ilica street in the Lower Town (Donji Grad) where you can shop to your hearts content. Ilica Street has brand name designer boutiques, shoe stores, snack bars and more. Keep walking east and you will arrive at Ban Jelacic Square the main square of Zagreb.