Lotrščak Tower
Grad Zagreb
Lotrščak Tower is a historic fortified tower situated in Zagreb's Gornji Grad (Upper Town). Constructed in the 13th century to guard the southern gate of the Gradec town wall, it is one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in the city alongside Kamenita vrata and Popov toranj. The tower's name derives from the Latin term 'campana latrunculorum' meaning 'thieves' bell,' referring to the bell installed in 1646 that signaled the closing of the town gates. Architecturally, the tower features a Romanesque square plan with thick walls and proportional design, reaching a height of 30 meters including its roof and dome. In the 19th century, two additional floors were added, and the iconic Grič cannon was installed on the rooftop. Since January 1, 1877, the cannon has been fired daily at noon to mark the exact time for the city's church bell-ringers. Over the centuries, the tower has adapted from its defensive role to various uses including storage, a café, and residential space. Today, it is part of the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery, housing a photographic exhibition about Zagreb and an art & gift shop. Visitors can climb to the tower's viewing dome for spectacular panoramic views of Zagreb's historic center.
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Tip: Visit Lotrščak Tower between Tuesday and Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00. The best time to visit is at noon to witness the firing of the Grič cannon, a unique local tradition. Tickets can be purchased on-site; consider checking availability in advance during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The tower offers an art & gift shop with unique souvenirs and artistic books. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the tower's stairs and bring a camera to capture the city panorama from the viewing dome.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Lotrščak' comes from the Latin 'campana latrunculorum' meaning 'thieves' bell', a bell used to warn of closing city gates.
- •The Grič cannon has been fired daily at noon since 1877, except during World War I when it was temporarily discontinued.
- •The tower stands 30 meters tall including its roof and dome, with the main structure being 19 meters high.
- •Lotrščak Tower is one of the best-preserved parts of Zagreb's medieval defensive system, along with Kamenita vrata and Popov toranj.
- •The tower was adapted for various uses over time, including as a storage facility, café, and residential space before becoming a cultural site.
History
Lotrščak Tower was built in the 13th century as part of the defensive walls of Gradec, a royal free city established by King Béla IV in 1242.
Originally called the Tower of Dverce, it was renamed in 1646 after the installation of the 'thieves' bell' used to signal the closing of the city gates.
In the late 16th century, the tower's function and structure evolved as it adapted to new uses.
Significant architectural modifications were made in 1857 during a romantic restoration wave, adding two floors and a wooden fire-watch turret on the roof.
The Grič cannon was installed in the 19th century and first fired on New Year's Day 1877.
The cannon ceased firing during World War I but was reinstated in 1927 and continues to mark noon daily.
Place Guide
Viewing Dome19th century
The topmost part of the tower featuring a polygonal wooden turret that serves as a lookout point, offering panoramic views of Zagreb's historic Upper Town and beyond.
Grič Cannon1877
A historic cannon installed on the tower's rooftop, fired daily at noon since 1877 to signal the exact time to the city's churches and residents.
Art & Gift Shop
Located on the ground floor, the shop offers a variety of souvenirs, artistic books, and unique jewelry inspired by Zagreb's culture and history.
Photographic Exhibition
An exhibition inside the tower showcasing photographs of Zagreb, highlighting the city's history, architecture, and daily life.
Contact
Phone: 01 4851 768
