Zagreb - my impressions
Fedor Devidé, Cónsul del Perú
Five Stars Zagreb Issue 28 — March 01, 2009.
Although the mention of Zagreb, located in the heart of Central Europe, prompts many to think first of a noisy capital city, it is a city of natural gifts, beautiful landscapes and preserved natural enviroments in its immediate vicinity. It is geographically situated on the slopes of the Medvednica mountains and the Sava River Valley and is rich in cultural and historical architecture.
It is a place to enjoy cultural events, experience thousand years of exciting history and be part of long traditions. Its past can be explored by walking through the most attractive part of the old core of Zagreb. The Cathedral, which is the biggest building in Croatia contains, among others, the grave of a great croatian man, Aloijzije Stepinac. He was a cardinal of Zagreb, whose body lies just behind the main altar. On both sides of Kaptol Street are some lovely baroque residences, built between the late 15th century and the mid 19th century, with nice gardens and courtyards.
Along that street, there are some good restaurants that offer great fish and seafood specialties and have one of my favorite croatian wine cellars. Gradec, later called Gornji Grad, which means Upper Town in the West side, is shaped with many prestigious buildings built in baroque style along the main street. Upper town is one of the most beautiful points from which to have a nice view of the picturesque Zagreb.
It is especially interesting to experience the atmosphere of Dolac, the biggest and most popular market in the city. The market offers a wide variety of flowers, fresh fish, seafood, and organic fruits and vegetables. There are delicious homemade delicacies to taste with flavorful ingredients and unique recipes. It is a place for a short break from the constant rhythm of work and responsibilities.
It's hard to miss a café ritual on Saturday at noon! It is part of the tradition in most of the cities in Croatia. This is an opportunity to sit in one of the terraces in the main square, or along the Tkalèiæeva Street, drink a cup of coffee, and feel the soul of the city in a peaceful and relaxing way. Lots of restaurants and bars are placed up to the comercial Kaptol Centar, a cozy place to take a rest after a busy day or after have been taken a pleasant stroll through the historical areas of Zagreb.
To enjoy real nature and beauty, there is nothing better than walking to the North and the surrounding green areas up to Medvednica, one of the eleven natural parks in Croatia. It is an amazing and peaceful way to enjoy beautiful landscapes while climbing the hill up to Sljeme mountain, which has a large TV tower. Bean soup, sausages and a hot tea will be more than welcome to complete the journey.
One must-see attraction is Maksimir Park, at the Northeast part of the city, which is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Europe. Another attraction is the Lake of Bundek, which was transformed into a park three years ago. Another favorite destination is Samobor, with its architecture and lovely surroundings. There, you must certainly try the trout and cream pastry called krem¹nite.
Croatia is a full participant of the great European music culture and offers a large range of entertainment, cultural events, outstanding opera, theatrical performances, concerts of classical and light music, and open-air festivals with croatian artists and international guests. There is always a new exhibition being opened or a beautiful ballet in one of the concert halls, theaters, or art galleries in the city. In terms of museums, the Me¹troviæ Gallery is worthy of a visit, since Ivan Me¹troviæ was truly one of the greatest geniuses of the last century. The hospitality and cheerful attitude of the people make a strong impression on foreign guests. Croatians are crazy about sports and there is a country wide party when celebrating a victory!!!
