Zagreb history

Founded in the Middle Ages, Zagreb began life as two separate entities, Kaptol and Gradec, which today comprise the historic Gornji Grad (Upper Town). Centred around the city's landmark cathedral, Kaptol was a religious centre, while Gradec was home to craftsmen and merchants. Outsiders collectively referred to the settlements as Zagreb (meaning 'behind the hill'), although they were not officially united as the City of Zagreb until 1850.

Boom time followed with the late 19th century characterised by the arrival of the railways and the construction of Donji Grad (Lower Town). Next came industrialisation and the influx of migrant labour. Croatia's war of independence (1991-1995) saw Zagreb flounder as its industry collapsed and refugees flooded the city.