St. James Church, Zagreb : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 27 Jun, 2023
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Are you looking to explore the culture and attractions of a city with centuries of history? St. James Church in Zagreb, Croatia is one of the city’s oldest churches, with a long and fascinating history that will draw you back in time. This church has been a spiritual home to many throughout the years and continues to inspire and captivate those who visit. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some interesting facts, information, and travel tips about St. James Church in Zagreb. From its fascinating architecture to its beautiful stained glass windows, you’re sure to be charmed by this sacred place of worship. We’ll also provide some helpful information on how to access the church and any other points of interest in the area. Let’s dive in and discover St. James Church in Zagreb!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About St. James Church, Zagreb
1. St. James Church was built in the 12th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the city.
2. The original altar of St. James Church was made from silver and decorated with gold, jewels, and a painting depicting the Last Supper.
3. The church tower houses an astronomical clock that was created in 1698 and is still in working order.
4. During WWII, St. James Church was a shelter for many Jews fleeing persecution in Croatia.
5. The church is home to a crypt containing the remains of nobility from the 16th to the 19th centuries.
6. The interior of the church is made up of mosaic and stucco, made with over 350 different materials from Croatia.
7. Many of the windows of St. James Church are made of stained glass, some of which date back to the 14th century.
8. St. James Church is known for its organ, which is said to have the fullest concert organ sound in the city.
History & Information About St. James Church, Zagreb
St. James Church, also known as the Church of St. Jacob, is located in the center of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Built in the Baroque style, the church was erected in the late 16th century. It is one of the largest and most important churches in the city. The church was originally built on the site of an early Christian chapel. Later, an even larger structure was added and the complex was completed in the late 18th century.
Inside, the church is decorated with marble stone, beautiful glass windows, and a stunning statue of the Virgin Mary. The building also houses a large pipe organ, which was built in 1814. On the left side of the nave, visitors can find a shrine dedicated to St. James. Inside, there is a painting by Italian artist Giovanni Andrea de Rossi.
The church is a popular tourist destination in Zagreb and hosts many religious services throughout the year. It is also available for private events and souvenir shops can be found in the vestibule. Other nearby attractions include the Strossmayer Promenade, an old Franciscan Monastery, and the Lotrščak Tower.
Travel Guide For Visiting St. James Church, Zagreb
, Croatia
St. James Church is one of the iconic landmarks of the Croatian capital of Zagreb. Situated in the city’s historic Upper Town district, the neo-Gothic church with its spires peeking amidst the red roofs of Zagreb’s old Upper Town has been an integral part of the city’s skyline since its completion in 1912.
Start your visit to this beautiful church by taking the funicular from downtown Zagreb up to the historic Upper Town. St. James Church is located at Gornji Grad, the northernmost extremity of the Old Town. This former Baroque led up to St. Mark’s Church, which you’ll find just a few steps away, and a short stroll from here is the Bishop’s Palace.
Upon arriving at St. James Church, you’ll be taken aback by the sheer magnificence of the building’s exterior. The Gothic architecture and the Baroque spire stand out amongst the many other churches in the Upper Town. Step inside and learn about the church’s long history and admire the interior design. The walls are adorned with beautiful paintings, while the stained glass windows provide a spectacular view of Zagreb below.
The church holds a daily Mass, as well as other important services. Every Thursday afternoon at 4 pm, the church hosts a free concert series featuring local and international artists. If you’d rather take in the stunning architecture of St. James Church in peace, you can take a guided tour. The tours, offered daily from 8 am to 6 pm, are conducted in both English and Croatian and will cover the beauty, history, and significance of the church.
Afterward, head to the nearby Bishop’s Palace. This 19th-century palace is now home to the Croatian State Archives and is a stunning example of baroque architecture. Make sure to explore the gardens while you’re here.
Once you’ve had your fill of beauty and history, head down the many steep steps to the city center and lose yourself in the vibrant streets of Zagreb.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. James Church, Zagreb
Q: Where is St. James Church located?
A: St. James Church is located in the centre of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.
Q: What are the opening hours of St. James Church?
A: St. James Church is open seven days a week from 9 am to 7 pm.
Q: What religious denomination is St. James Church associated with?
A: St. James Church is a Roman Catholic Church which follows the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Q: Are there any guided tours available at St. James Church?
A: Yes, the church offers guided tours of its historic interiors on most weekdays. Please contact the church directly for specific details.
Q: Is there a cost associated with visiting St. James Church?
A: No, visits to the church are free of charge. Donations are greatly appreciated.