ST FRANCIS CHURCH

Transcending through centuries, the Church of St. Francis holds a special place in the hearts of Croatian natives. This spiritual building was constructed in the 13th century and was a part of the Franciscan Monastery. According to the ancient tales, whenever St. Francis visited Zagreb, he stayed at the house of a rich widow (Catherine Galovic). Later, Catherine donated that property and the church was built in a Gothic theme.

As the earthquake hit the grounds of Zagreb in 880, the Church of St. Francis was reconstructed and provided a neo-gothic structure. Today, it is an architectural marvel that attracts thousands of tourists annually. The long lawns and intricate detailing add to the splendour. At the front, you will see an act of crucifixion and if you peek closely, you will find two women at Jesus’s feet. When you enter the premises, you will realise that this church is one of the most fascinating places in Central Europe.

Highlights

• Immerse in the distinct neo-gothic architecture with stained glasses all around and an exterior enriched with a tall steeple after the 1880 earthquake.
• Experience the spiritual aura at the altar where several sculptures and paintings are dedicated to Saint Francis and reflect the Franciscan heritage.
• Explore the sacristy which is located next to the choir area where King Louis I and the Venetian Republic signed the Treaty of Zadar.
• Take a look at the choir seats which were designed by Giacomo da Borgo Sansepolcro in 1934 and have intricate artistic detailing.
• Witness the peaceful St. Francis church which serves as the house of paintings by Ivan Mestrovic, a well-known Croatian artist.

How To Reach

By Car: The Church of St. Francis is approximately 11 km from the Zagreb City Centre. You can hire a private car or book a cab to reach the destination. It will take 40 minutes, depending on the traffic.

By Bus: The local Medveščak bus stop is only 100 m from the church. You can board a bus from your hotel and deboard at the bus stop. You merely have to walk for 2 minutes and you will arrive at the destination.

Best Time To Visit

The Church of St. Francis in Zagreb is open throughout the year for public visits. Visit on a midweek day like Wednesday. At that time, the place is less crowded and you can get the best view. Visit early morning between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. This is when the surroundings are peaceful and serene.

Other Essential Information

• Maintain the decorum of the church and refrain from communicating with your fellow visitors.
• Confirm the opening hours of the church before visiting as it might be closed to the public during holidays.
• Capture snaps only where it is allowed and seek permission or avoid clicking pictures at other places.
• Take guided tours of the church to learn extensively about its history and cultural significance.
• Donations are always appreciated here as the collected amount is used for the maintenance of the church.
• Familiarise yourself with the local customs of the church so you can follow the specific rituals and have a spiritually rich experience.