Zagreb Cathedral, seat of the Archdiocese of Zagreb, stands on Kaptol hill and is officially the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints Stephen and Ladislaus. Its twin neo-Gothic spires, raised to about 108 m by architect Hermann Bollé after the 1880 earthquake, made it Croatia's tallest building and the city's defining landmark. The March 2020 earthquake toppled part of the spires and triggered a sweeping restoration; the cathedral hosted its first Mass in five years on Christmas Eve 2025 and reopened to visitors on 17 April 2026. Note, however, that the spires are still being rebuilt, so they are much shorter and clad in scaffolding right now — expect a cathedral 'under restoration' rather than the classic postcard silhouette.
Hermann Bollé's neo-Gothic west front and the twin spires under reconstruction (cut down from about 108 m to roughly 72 m for now)
The large Walcker pipe organ with 6,068 pipes
The 1778 Baroque marble high altar and the treasury of medieval artifacts
The glass sarcophagus of Cardinal Aloysius Stepinac with a relief by Ivan Meštrović
Traces of over 800 years of history, including a medieval Glagolitic inscription on the north wall
The surrounding Kaptol square and the neighboring Dolac market in the historic Upper Town
Good to know
SafetyRestoration work is still ongoing, so there is a lot of scaffolding and sheeting and some areas may be closed off — always follow the signs and barriers inside.
RulesThis is an active Catholic cathedral: dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, remove hats, and keep quiet inside.
MannersTourist viewing is restricted during Mass (e.g. 10:00 on Sundays); avoid taking photos and do not disturb worshippers during services.
SeasonIn the July high season it can be hot and crowded, so an early-morning visit is more comfortable; the stone interior stays cooler than outside, so a light layer helps.
CautionWatch for pickpockets around Kaptol, Dolac market, and the tram stops near Ban Jelačić Square, and avoid unmetered taxis and unofficial 'guides' touting for business.
RulesBecause of the ongoing works and events such as concerts, open areas and hours change frequently, so confirm the latest opening status before you go.
Practical info
About a 5-minute walk from Ban Jelačić Square, on Kaptol hill beside Dolac market; it is generally open daily 08:00–19:00 with Sunday Mass at 10:00. Entry is usually free, though parts such as the treasury may carry a fee, and because the restoration keeps changing the accessible areas and hours, please confirm the latest prices and opening times through official channels before visiting.
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