The name Zagreb was mentioned for the first time in the Felician Charter relating to the establishment of the Zagreb Bishopric around 1094.

Zagreb, pronounced with various English approximations such as ZAH-greb, ZAG-reb, or zah-GREB, and precisely as [zǎːɡreb] in Croatian, stands proudly as the capital and largest city of Croatia. This vibrant metropolis is nestled in the northwestern part of the country, gracefully straddling the banks of the Sava River and extending up the southern slopes of the picturesque Medvednica mountain range. With an average elevation of approximately 122 meters (400 feet) above sea level, Zagreb's geography offers a diverse landscape.

As of 2018, the city proper was home to an estimated 804,507 residents. When considering the broader urban agglomeration, which includes surrounding interconnected areas, the population swells to about 1,153,255, representing roughly a quarter of Croatia's total populace. This significant concentration of people underscores Zagreb's central role in the nation's demographic and economic life.

A Journey Through Time: Zagreb's Rich History

Zagreb boasts a deep and storied history, with roots reaching back to Roman times. The earliest known settlement in the vicinity was the Roman town of Andautonia, located near what is today Ščitarjevo. The name "Zagreb" itself makes its first recorded appearance in 1134, referencing the establishment of a settlement at Kaptol in 1094. Kaptol, alongside the neighboring Gradec, formed the medieval core of the city, often engaged in rivalries but ultimately contributing to Zagreb's unique character. By 1242, Zagreb had earned the prestigious status of a free royal city, a significant milestone that granted it considerable autonomy and fostered its growth. Fast-forwarding to the modern era, the city marked another important development in 1851 with the appointment of its first mayor, Janko Kamauf, signaling a new chapter in its municipal governance.

Administration and Geography: A City of Districts

Administratively, Zagreb holds a special and unique status within Croatia. It functions as a consolidated city-county, effectively meaning it is a city that also possesses the administrative powers of a county, distinct from the surrounding Zagreb County. This administrative structure divides the city into 17 distinct city districts, each contributing to the city's diverse fabric. Geographically, these districts exhibit considerable variety. Many are situated in the lower elevations along the fertile Sava River valley, forming the bustling urban heartland. In contrast, northern and northeastern districts, such as Podsljeme and Sesvete, climb into the foothills of the Medvednica mountain, offering different topographies and residential experiences. This blend of riverine plains and mountain slopes gives Zagreb a truly varied geographical image. The city spans an impressive distance, extending over 30 kilometers (19 miles) from east to west and approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from north to south.

Zagreb's Global Standing and Economic Prowess

Recognized for its significant influence, Zagreb has earned a Beta-rating from the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, categorizing it as a global city. This status is well-deserved, as Zagreb's strategic location, robust transport connections, and concentration of industry, scientific, and research institutions—along with a long-standing industrial tradition—collectively underpin its leading economic position within Croatia. The city serves as the pivotal seat of the central government, housing all administrative bodies and nearly all government ministries. Furthermore, it is the headquarters for almost all of Croatia's largest companies, major media outlets, and key scientific institutions, solidifying its role as the nation's economic and intellectual powerhouse.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads where Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Europe converge, Zagreb is undoubtedly the most important transport hub in Croatia. This vital location makes the Zagreb area the central nexus for the country's extensive road, rail, and air networks, facilitating both domestic and international connectivity. Beyond its economic and logistical importance, Zagreb is celebrated for its diverse economy, high quality of living, rich array of museums, and vibrant calendar of sporting and entertainment events. Its primary economic branches are thriving high-tech industries and a robust service sector, reflecting its forward-looking development and commitment to innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zagreb

What is Zagreb's geographical location?
Zagreb is located in the northwest of Croatia, along the Sava River, and at the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain, situated at an elevation of approximately 122 meters (400 feet) above sea level.
What is the population of Zagreb?
As of 2018, the estimated population of the city proper was 804,507. The population of the wider Zagreb urban agglomeration reached 1,153,255, which accounts for roughly a quarter of Croatia's total population.
What is the historical significance of Zagreb?
Zagreb has a rich history dating back to Roman times, with the oldest settlement in its vicinity being Roman Andautonia. The city's name was first recorded in 1134, referencing the foundation of Kaptol in 1094. It became a free royal city in 1242 and saw its first mayor, Janko Kamauf, appointed in 1851.
How is Zagreb administratively organized?
Zagreb holds special status as a consolidated city-county within Croatia, meaning it functions as both a city and a county, separate from Zagreb County. It is administratively divided into 17 city districts, which span diverse geographical areas from the Sava river valley to the Medvednica mountain foothills.
What are the key economic drivers in Zagreb?
Zagreb's leading economic position is driven by its strong transport connections, concentration of industry, scientific and research institutions, and a long industrial tradition. Its main economic branches are high-tech industries and the service sector, contributing to its reputation for a diverse economy and high quality of living.
Is Zagreb an important transport hub?
Yes, Zagreb is considered the most important transport hub in Croatia. Its strategic location at the convergence of Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Europe makes it the central point for Croatia's road, rail, and air networks.