Lotrscak Tower

Lotrščak Tower: Zagreb's Guardian with a Noon Blast!

The Lotrščak Tower, perched atop the Gradec hill in Zagreb, Croatia, is much more than just an old stone structure. It's a symbol of the city, a silent observer of centuries gone by, and a provider of arguably the best panoramic views Zagreb has to offer. Originally built in the 13th century to defend the city, it's one of the best-preserved parts of Zagreb's former fortifications. But its claim to fame lies in its quirky tradition: every day at noon, a cannon fires from the tower, a loud bang that resonates throughout the city.

What to See and Do

• Climb to the Top: The main draw is, of course, climbing to the top of the tower. The narrow staircase might be a little tiring, but the 360-degree views from the observation deck are absolutely worth the effort. You can see everything from the colorful rooftops of the Old Town to the distant Medvednica mountain.
• Listen for the Cannon: Make sure you're near the tower at noon! The loud blast of the Grič cannon is a Zagreb tradition dating back to 1877, originally intended to signal the beginning of the lunch hour.
• Explore the Exhibits: Inside the tower, you'll find interesting exhibits about the tower's history and its role in Zagreb's past. You can also learn about the legend of the cannon and the man who fires it.
• Enjoy the Funicular: The Lotrščak Tower sits right next to the Zagreb Funicular, the shortest funicular in the world! Take a ride up or down the hill for a unique and charming experience.

Tips for Visitors

• Be prepared for stairs: There's no elevator, so be ready to climb several flights of stairs to reach the top.
• Arrive early for the cannon: The area around the tower can get crowded just before noon, so arrive a bit early to secure a good viewing spot.
• Check the weather: The views from the top are best on a clear day.
• Combine it with a walk: Explore the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) surrounding the tower. It's a beautiful area with charming streets, historical buildings, and cozy cafes.

How to reach to Lotrscak Tower

Reaching Lotrscak Tower is quite simple and convenient:

• By Funicular: The easiest and most charming way is to take the Zagreb Funicular from Tomićeva Street in the Lower Town. The funicular station is right next to the tower.
• By Foot: You can also walk up to the tower from the Lower Town. There are several sets of stairs and sloping streets that lead up to Gradec.
• By Tram: Take a tram to one of the stops near the Lower Town (e.g., Trg bana Josipa Jelačića) and then walk up to the funicular or directly up the hill.

Opening Hours:

Please Note: Opening hours can sometimes vary. It's always a good idea to double-check the official website before your visit.

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

A visit to the Lotrščak Tower is a must for anyone visiting Zagreb. It's a chance to step back in time, experience a unique local tradition, and enjoy some of the best views the city has to offer. Don't miss it!