Ban Jelacic Square, Zagreb

The central square of Zagreb, Ban Jelacic Square, is one we walked through regularly, going from site to site. Named after Ban Josip Jelacic, a Croatian lieutenant field marshal in the Imperial Austrian army and politician, its history began in 1641 as a marketplace. Now surrounded by beautiful historic buildings it is easy to see why it is the place to hold events, markets and of course, the site for the city’s Christmas tree.

In the centre is an impressive equestrian statue of Ban Josip Jelacic, installed in the square in 1866, it represents one of the best known statues in the county.

With the sun shining against the buildings or the rain cleaning the cobblestones, this square was impressive in all weather. And it certainly helped us with our bearings every time we ventured out.Read more