The main square of Zagreb and the meeting point of the Upper and Lower Towns, centred on an 1866 equestrian statue of Ban Josip Jelačić.
Ban Jelačić Square is the heart of Zagreb and the point where trams from every direction converge. The bronze equestrian statue of Ban Josip Jelačić was unveiled in 1866, removed in 1947 and restored in 1990. The square is framed by Austro-Hungarian facades, the Manduševac fountain and the start of Ilica, the city's main shopping street. Locals say 'under the clock' for meeting here. At Advent the square becomes the centre of the Advent in Zagreb festival.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Typical visit | 20-30 minutes |
| Best time | Evening, or the Advent season in December |
| Getting there | Tram 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 17 to Trg bana Jelačića; central pedestrian square |
| Address | Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia |
Good to know
- Best for
- first-time visitors, photographers, people-watchers
Location
Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
45.8131, 15.9772 View on map
Highlights
- Equestrian statue of Ban Jelačić
- Manduševac fountain and its legend of the city's name
- Historic tram junction
Tips for visiting
- Meet locals' way: 'under the clock' (pod satom) at the Kaptol end
- Cafes on the square charge a premium; step into side streets for lower prices
- Free to cross at any time, with the best atmosphere from 6:00PM
When to visit
Evenings and during Advent.
Accessibility
Fully level, step-free paving with tram stops at street level.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the name Zagreb come from?
A legend says a thirsty soldier asked a girl, Manda, to scoop water (zagrabiti) from the well; the Manduševac fountain marks the spot.
Is the square car-free?
Yes, only trams cross it; the rest is pedestrian.