Background

History of the Croats Sculpture

A symbolic sculpture by Ivan Meštrović on Republic of Croatia Square, embodying Croatian history and cultural identity in Zagreb.

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Located on Republic of Croatia Square in Zagreb, the History of the Croats is a significant sculpture by Ivan Meštrović. Completed in 1932, it depicts a seated female figure embodying Croatian identity and heritage, holding a Glagolitic script.

A brief summary to History of the Croats

  • Trg Republike Hrvatske 14, Zagreb, 10000, HR

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around Republic of Croatia Square to admire the architecture and other nearby landmarks.
  • Visit the Croatian National Theatre, located on the same square, to experience a performance or admire its architecture.
  • Explore other works by Ivan Meštrović in Zagreb, such as The Well of Life and the Nikola Tesla statue.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The History of the Croats sculpture is located on Republic of Croatia Square (Trg Republike Hrvatske) in Zagreb's city center. From Ban Jelačić Square, walk west along Ilica street, then turn south onto Frankopanska street. The square will be on your left, with the sculpture in front of the University building. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several trams and buses stop near Republic of Croatia Square. Tram lines 11, 12, 13, 14, and 17 all have stops close to the square. A single 30-minute tram ticket costs €0.53. Purchase tickets at a newsstand or via the Moj ZET app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Zagreb. A short taxi ride from the main train station (Glavni Kolodvor) to Republic of Croatia Square typically costs between €5-€10, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to use official taxi services to avoid inflated fares.

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Discover more about History of the Croats

The History of the Croats sculpture, crafted by the renowned Croatian artist Ivan Meštrović in 1932, stands as a powerful symbol of Croatian identity and national heritage. Situated on Republic of Croatia Square in Zagreb, in front of the University building, this bronze sculpture is one of Meštrović's most recognizable works. The sculpture portrays a seated female figure dressed in traditional folk costume from the Dalmatian Zagora region. It's believed that Meštrović modeled the figure after his own mother, representing her as a guardian of Croatian history and a symbol of home. The figure holds a stone slab inscribed with ancient Croatian Glagolitic script, further emphasizing the preservation of national heritage. The original marble sculpture was displayed at an exhibition in Zagreb from 1938 to 1939. A bronze cast was placed in front of the Rectorate of the University of Zagreb in 1970, commemorating the university's 300th anniversary. Meštrović's work reflects his broader artistic exploration of the human form and his deep connection to Croatian culture and history. Other notable works by Meštrović in Zagreb include The Well of Life, Josip Juraj Strossmayer monument, and the Nikola Tesla statue.

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