Mirogoj is a park cemetery that is considered one of the most prominent landmarks of Zagreb, Croatia. It is the final resting place of many famous Croatians, as well as members of all religious groups: Catholics, Orthodox, Muslims, Protestants, Latter-day Saints and Jews. It also has some secular graves. The cemetery was created in 1876 on a plot of land owned by the linguist Ljudevit Gaj. The architect Hermann Bollé designed the main building, which consists of arcades, domes and a church at the entrance. The construction of these structures started in 1879 and was completed in 1929 .
The cemetery is open every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm (7:30 am to 6:00 pm from November to March).
There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcome.
You can get to Mirogoj by public transport: bus 106 from Kaptol to Mirogoj-Krematorij or bus 226 from Kaptol to Remete-Svetic.
There is also a parking lot nearby for those who drive.
Mirogoj is not only a cemetery, but also a «museum in the open air» that enchants its visitors with its peace and beauty. You can admire the artistic and historical value of the monuments, sculptures and tombs that reflect the cultural diversity and heritage of Croatia. You can also enjoy the greenery, flowers and trees that adorn the cemetery grounds. Some of the notable people buried at Mirogoj are:
- Franjo Tuđman, the first president of Croatia
- Stjepan Radić, a politician and leader of the Croatian Peasant Party
- Ivan Meštrović, a sculptor and architect
- August Šenoa, a writer and poet
- Tin Ujević, a poet and essayist
- Vladimir Prelog, a Nobel laureate in chemistry
- Andrija Štampar, a physician and public health pioneer
- Ivo Andrić, a Nobel laureate in literature
- Miroslav Krleža, a writer and critic
- Dražen Petrović, a basketball player
If you want to learn more about Mirogoj and its history, you can join one of the guided tours that are offered by various organizations and agencies. You can also visit the website of the City Cemeteries Zagreb (https://www.gradskagroblja.hr/) for more information.
When visiting Mirogoj, please respect the rules and regulations of the cemetery. Do not litter, damage or disturb the graves or monuments. Do not make loud noises or play music. Do not bring pets or bicycles. Do not take photos or videos without permission. Do not light candles on the day of All Saints’ Day (November 1st) or All Souls’ Day (November 2nd) as they may cause fire hazards.
Mirogoj is a place of memory and reverence, but also of art and culture. It is a unique attraction that showcases the rich and diverse history of Zagreb and Croatia. It is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
