Constructed in the mid-13th century to protect the growing city from invasion by the Tatars, the castle changed hands many times over the centuries. After a modern-day rebuilding effort, today the defense walls stand once more, encircling the stone chapel of St. Philip and St. Jacob, the Great Palace, and fortified towers. The Oltar Domovine (Homeland Altar) is a memorial to all the war dead of Croatia, made of stone from regions across the country and bearing an eternal flame.
The castle sits in the middle of Medevinca Nature Park, a popular Zagreb destination for hiking, mountain biking, and off-road safaris. Several organized tours combine outdoor adventures here with a visit to the castle.
If you're coming by car, there is a circular route up to the castle; all roads to and from Medvedgrad are one-way. By public transport, take bus 128 to Lukšići and walk through forest about an hour along a paved road to reach the castle.
The past comes alive during the last weekend in September for Medieval Days at Medvedgrad, a living-history pageant featuring court jesters, knightly tournaments, and medieval-themed family activities. A summer concert series is presented each July.
Medevinca Nature Park is a local favorite for getting back to nature just outside Zagreb’s city limits. For other natural playgrounds in the region, try Jarun Lake for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, join the joggers on lakeside trails and visit the zoo at Maksimir Park, or explore the UNESCO-listed waterfalls and forests of Plitviče Lakes National Park. Don't have time for a day trip? Stroll among art and food stalls right in the city at pretty Zrinjevac Park.
