Stone Gate
Grad Zagreb
Stone Gate, known locally as Kamenita vrata, is a significant medieval monument located in Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Constructed in the 13th century as part of the city's defensive walls, it is the only remaining gate of the original four that once secured the settlement. The gate is shaped like a rectangular tower with a carriage passage and today houses a chapel featuring the image of the Virgin Mary of the Stone Gate, believed to have miraculously survived a devastating fire in 1731 that destroyed much of the surrounding area. This image, richly adorned and crowned during its bicentennial celebration in 1931, is a spiritual symbol and protector of the city. The gate also preserves a medieval shop called Pod boltom, showcasing the historical commercial life of Zagreb. The Stone Gate stands as a cultural and religious landmark, deeply embedded in the city's identity, and is protected as a cultural heritage site of Croatia. It is also linked to Croatian literature through August Šenoa's novel "Zlatarovo zlato," with a sculpture commemorating the story's heroine adorning its facade.
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Astuce: Visit Stone Gate in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and attend the chapel's quiet moments. The feast day of Our Lady of Stone Gate on May 31st is a special occasion marked by local celebrations, making it an inspiring time to visit. Tickets are not generally required to enter the gate or chapel, but donations are appreciated. Consider exploring the nearby historic Upper Town on foot to fully experience the medieval ambiance. Advance reservations are not necessary, but guided tours of Gornji Grad often include Stone Gate and can enrich your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •Stone Gate is the only preserved medieval gate of the original four gates of Gradec, built in the 13th century.
- •The image of the Virgin Mary inside the chapel survived a devastating fire in 1731 unscathed except for the wooden frame.
- •The chapel's altar features baroque elements crafted by master Ivan Korta in 1778.
- •The gate is featured in August Šenoa's famous Croatian novel "Zlatarovo zlato," commemorated by a sculpture on its facade.
- •The Virgin Mary of Stone Gate was crowned with a golden crown in 1931 during the bicentennial celebration of the miraculous preservation of the image.
Histoire
Stone Gate was built in the 13th century as part of the fortifications of Gradec, the medieval nucleus of Zagreb.
It was one of four main gates providing access to the city, but the only one to survive to the present day.
The gate acquired its present form in 1760, after several reconstructions.
A major event in its history was the fire of 1731, which destroyed much of the Upper Town and the gate itself.
The miraculous survival of the Virgin Mary image inside the gate's chapel led to the establishment of the chapel as a place of worship and protection.
Over time, the gate became a symbol of the city and was preserved through the efforts of cultural societies.
In 1991, the Virgin Mary of Stone Gate was declared the patroness of Zagreb by Cardinal Franjo Kuharić.
Guide du lieu
Chapel of Our Lady of Stone Gate18th century
This small chapel inside the gate houses the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, which is the spiritual heart of the site. The image depicts Mary as a queen holding a scepter and the infant Jesus holding a globe. The altar is adorned with baroque sculptures of Saints Peter and Paul, flanked by two white angels. The chapel is protected by an ornate baroque railing crafted by Ivan Korta in 1778.
Medieval Shop 'Pod boltom'Medieval period
Located within the gate's passage, this preserved medieval shop shows the historical commercial activity of Zagreb. The shop entrance was situated under one half of the stone arch, while the other half was walled up and used as a display window, a unique feature of medieval urban commerce.
Sculpture of Dora Krupić20th century
This modern sculpture by Croatian artist Ivo Kerdić commemorates the heroine of August Šenoa's novel 'Zlatarovo zlato,' set in the Stone Gate area. It is placed in a niche on the western facade of the gate, linking literature and local heritage.
Contact
Téléphone: 01 4851 611