Medvedgrad, Medieval fortress on Medvednica Mountain, Zagreb, Croatia
Medvedgrad is a stone fortress built on Mali Plazur hill at 593 meters elevation in the mountains above Zagreb. It features double walls, three gates, and multiple defensive towers positioned throughout the structure.
Construction began under Bishop Philip Türje between 1249 and 1254 following Mongol invasions that destroyed nearby settlements. The fortress was designed to defend the growing communities in the valleys below.
The fortress holds an altar beneath its southern tower, created by sculptor Kuzma Kovačić to honor fallen soldiers. This space connects the hilltop location with remembrance and national history that visitors encounter today.
Reach the fortress by taking bus 102 to Šestine, then follow hiking trail number 12 to the top. Weekend visits during spring offer the best access times for exploring the site.
The fortress changed hands repeatedly throughout the centuries, with the Kulmer family holding it until World War II ended. These frequent ownership shifts reflect the turbulent political history that shaped the entire region.
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