Brestovac Sanatorium, Zagreb Travel Guide

Brestovac Sanatorium, located on the slopes of Medvednica Mountain, is a captivating, if somewhat eerie, historical site. Established in 1909, the sanatorium was founded by Dr. Milivoj Dežman as a specialized treatment center for tuberculosis patients. At the time, tuberculosis was a widespread and deadly disease, and Brestovac was one of the first institutions in the region dedicated to its treatment.The story behind the sanatorium's creation is intertwined with a tragic love story. Dr. Dežman built Brestovac in an attempt to save his beloved, a celebrated actress named Ljerka Šram, who had contracted tuberculosis. Sadly, despite the advanced facilities and dedicated care, Šram succumbed to the disease in 1913.During its prime, Brestovac Sanatorium was considered one of the best tuberculosis treatment centers in Europe. Its location on Medvednica Mountain was carefully chosen for its fresh air and serene environment, believed to be beneficial for patients. The architecture of the sanatorium blended elements of a mountain lodge with an English country house, designed to promote healing and well-being.With advancements in medicine and the development of effective treatments for tuberculosis, the sanatorium gradually became obsolete. It closed its doors in 1968 and has been abandoned ever since. Today, the ruins of Brestovac stand as a reminder of the past, attracting urban explorers, history enthusiasts, and those intrigued by its tragic love story. The site is freely accessible, though visitors should exercise caution due to the dilapidated condition of the buildings.