Zagreb has many parishes and churches, but certainly the highest one is the parish church of the Holy Mary (Župna crkva Majke Božje Sljemenske) on Medvednica mountain, at 1001 meters above sea level, just 34 meters below the mountain’s top, Sljeme.
The small parish church is really unique: it was built in 1932 for the spiritual needs of hikers, tourists and patients at the (now closed) Brestovac hospital. The Sljeme parish church, as it is often called, is made of stone and surrounded by a small park, and it blends perfectly with the forest.
The interior is famous for its oak ceiling, with motives of 39 coats of arms from various Croatian regions. There is an electric organ used during mass. Mass is held on Sunday, and mostly attended by hikers, bikers and pilgrims. It is also possible to get married here, which I am sure is a very special experience.
Christmas time is a special time to visit, as there is an outside, forest-surrounded Nativity scene.
I like this spot because it offers peace and tranquility for many believers and a beautiful place to rest and admire the power and beauty of nature for everyone. No matter your believes (or lack thereof), this is a spot worth visiting, as it combines the beauty of Zagreb’s mountain Medvednica with and the skill of human hand, in this case the architect Juraj Denzler.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"ZKM Theater", or Zagreb's Youth Theater, is one of my favorite theaters because of its contemporary approach, critical attitude and daring performances...
by
"Express Bar" feels like a visit to your best girlfriend in Zagreb, who also happens to have an exquisite taste in home decor and really makes an effort...
by
"Velvet Pepper Studio" Zagreb is a light-filled yoga studio that specialises in yoga swings, where you have to stay concentrated! Classes also in English.
by
"La štruk" in Zagreb makes štrukli, the Croatian comfort food par excellence, with creative twists: gratinated, additional toppings... Nothing comes close!
by
"Botaničar" in Zagreb is a hip bar that's also a gallery and social club. Let me tell you: spending time here makes you want to invest in houseplants.
by
"Vintage Industrial" is a bar/club in Zagreb I remember from my student years. Nowadays I go there for the really great tribute bands that play on weekends
by
"Swanky Monkey Garden" in Zagreb is a local-friendly hostel with a great bar and garden I always enjoy sipping a cocktail at on a lazy Saturday afternoon.
by
"Regular.Bar" in Zagreb is special. It has this homey feeling the city's backyards share. They even serve free cucumber water. Need I say more?
by
"Hotel Vila Tina" is a small hotel in Zagreb, one of the city's hidden jewels. I love coming here for their rich breakfast with family and friends...
by
"Park Maksimir" in Zagreb is more than a park. This is where memories are created, where you see the forest for the first time. So many reasons to love it.
by
"Trg Svetog Marka", or St. Mark's square, is the heart and soul of Zagreb's Upper Town. Beautiful, quiet and replete with rich history...
by
135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 135 Insider Tips