Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark's Square, and the Foundation of Zagreb

The origins of Zagreb lie with two settlements founded on neighboring hills. Kaptol is the settlement formed around the Zagreb Cathedral and Gradec is the settlement is marked by St. Mark's Square.

The Zagreb Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Cathedral build on the east slope of Kaptol Hill. Construction on the Cathedral started in 1093 and this marks the foundation of the Zagreb Bishopric or settlement by King Ladislav. The word Kaptol means group of canons and references the rows of priest residents that lines the street on the hill. The canons also controlled the Kaptol settlement. The Cathedral itself was completed and consecrated in 1217 but shortly after, in 1242, it was destroyed in Tartar Raids. The Cathedral was rebuilt in 1263 and defensive walls were put up around Kaptol in 1496 and 1493. The Prislin Tower is one of the best preserved landmarks from this time and marks the location of where the Turks were defeated trying to capture the city of Sisak. More Fortifications were built around the cathedral in 1512 and 1520 and many of these walls can still be seen today.

Zagreb Cathedral 1880 (pre-earthquake)

Zagreb Cathedral present day (tallest building in Croatia)

The focal point of Gradec, St. Mark's Square, functioned as a meeting place for merchants around St. Mark's Church. Gradec was originally given its royal charter in 1242 and St. Mary's Church and Square were created soon after. In a corner of the square, near present day Cirilometoska Street, is the location of the Medieval City Hall. The building has gone through renovation but is still used from the Zagreb City Council. Other parts of the square include the Croatian Parliament, the St. Mark's Parish Office, and a mansion called Banski Divori that use to house the city governor.

Panorama of St. Mark's Square with Banski Divori on the Left, St. Mark's Church in the center, and the Croatian Parliament on the right.