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Vila Rebar: Echoes of History in Ruined Splendor

Explore the haunting ruins of Vila Rebar, a former WWII-era mansion with secret tunnels, on the slopes of Zagreb's Medvednica mountain.

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Vila Rebar, a ruined villa on Medvednica mountain near Zagreb, bears witness to a tumultuous past. Originally built in 1932 as a hunting lodge, it became the residence of Ante Pavelić, the Croatian WWII politician, who added secret tunnels and bunkers. Today, the graffiti-covered stone foundations and overgrown tunnels offer a chilling glimpse into a dark chapter of history.

A brief summary to Vila Rebar

  • Nad Tunelom 24, Zagreb, 10000, HR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the grounds, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring a flashlight if you intend to explore the tunnels, though entering them is not recommended due to safety concerns.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in Medvednica Nature Park for a full day of outdoor activities.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Vila Rebar via public transport, start at the main bus station in Zagreb. Take bus number 128 towards the Medvednica Mountain area. This bus will take you to the last stop, near the entrance to Medvednica Nature Park. From there, it's approximately a 2-kilometer walk to Vila Rebar. Follow the signs within the park directing you to Nad Tunelom. A single bus fare is approximately 0.53 €.

  • Walking

    If you are near the upper station of the Medvednica cable car, follow the marked hiking trails leading towards Vila Rebar. The hike is moderately challenging and takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Follow the trail markers indicating the direction towards Nad Tunelom. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

  • Taxi

    From the city center, a taxi ride to Vila Rebar will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Licensed taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Zagreb. Expect to pay around 150-200 HRK for the ride. Be sure the driver is familiar with the location, as it's slightly off the beaten path.

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Discover more about Vila Rebar

Vila Rebar, located on the slopes of Medvednica mountain, is a haunting reminder of Croatia's complex 20th-century history. Built in 1932, the villa initially served as a hunting lodge before being transformed into the residence of Ante Pavelić, the leader of the Independent State of Croatia during World War II. During this dark period, Pavelić oversaw the construction of a network of secret tunnels connecting the villa to military bunkers in the surrounding hills, intended as escape routes. After the war, Pavelić fled, and Vila Rebar was repurposed as a mountain resort called "Risnjak". However, in 1979, a fire gutted the villa, leaving only its stone foundations. The ruins, along with the abandoned tunnels, stand as a testament to the past, attracting urban explorers and those interested in dark tourism. The site is located on the edge of a forest, contributing to its mysterious and somewhat eerie atmosphere. Exploring the tunnels is generally not recommended due to safety concerns.

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