Mirogoj Cemetery

Overview

Mirogoj Cemetery is one of Europe's most beautiful burial grounds, featuring a monumental neo-Renaissance arcade entrance designed by Hermann Bollé. Often described as an open-air sculpture gallery, it serves all faiths and is both a functioning cemetery and a cultural landmark.

Highlights

• Bollé Arcades: The grand ivy-covered arcades with their domes and colonnades rival many art galleries.
• Notable Graves: Resting place of Croatian presidents, artists, writers, and scientists.
• Interdenominational: Catholic, Orthodox, Muslim, and Jewish graves stand side by side — a symbol of tolerance.

History

Opened in 1876, Mirogoj was designed by architect Hermann Bollé, who also rebuilt Zagreb Cathedral. The cemetery's neo-Renaissance arcades were completed in 1929 and have been a protected cultural monument since 1964.

Visitor Tips

• Getting There: Bus 226 runs from the cathedral to the cemetery entrance.
• Photography: The arcades are stunning in autumn when ivy turns golden and red.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.