Zagreb cathedral
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Zagreb cathedral on Kaptol is probably the most famous building in Zagreb, as its spires can be seen from many locations in the city.
The church is consecrated to Mary's assumption and the kings Stjepan and Ladislav. The church is built on the remains on the former cathedral from 12th century which was probably razed in the Tatar sacking of the city. In 13th century, bishop Timotej starts organizing and financing the building of the new church. In 14th century, the church had 3 naves, the main one being of same height as the side ones. In 15th century, architects and sculptors from Prague were employed to modify the naves and design ornaments which were mainly destroyed later. Also, at the end of the century, the Turks had invaded Bosnia and Croatia, causing the cathedral to be fortified with a renaissance fortification wall around it. Few of these forts are still intact. In the 17th century, a fortified renaissance tower was erected on the south side, and was used as an observatory, since the Turks were still posing a threat.
In 1880, the cathedral is severely damaged in an earthquake. The main nave has collapsed and the tower was damaged beyond repair. The restoration of the cathedral in the neogothic style was made by Hermann Bollé, and the cathedral reaches its present state. Two spires of 105 m height were raised on the western side, which are currently being restored.
[edit] See also
- History of Zagreb
- History of Croatia
- St. Mark's Church
- Kaptol
- Gradec
- Ban Jelačić Square
- Croatian National Theatre
- Mimara Museum
- Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts
- Mirogoj Cemetery
[edit] Views of the cathedral