Culture in Zagreb

Now officially over 900 years old, the city of Zagreb, Croatiaís capital, combines the vibrancy of a fledgling capital city in a newly-independent country with the same appreciation of the past, the rich history and cultural tradition of one of Europeís most distinguished metropolises. Though informally known as the Croat capital since the mid 1500ís, Zagrebís official recognition as capital arrived in 1991 on June 25 when Croatian Independence from Yugoslavia was declared.

Nearly 500 years of Habsburg rule are stamped across the city, leaving a rich tradition of culture and appreciation for the arts that remains strong today as Croatia seeks to emerge from the memories of civil war and communism. Boasting Croatiaís oldest university, Zagreb's heritage of education and passion for learning is represented by the over 30 separate art collections, containing over three and a half million individual exhibits, and the presence of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. Between the museums and theatre, youíll find the very finest culturally enriching offerings this part of the world can throw at you.

ZÖ Is for Zagreb. If you like your culture to be a bit more active and 21st century check out Animafest Zagreb, Europeís second oldest festival dedicated to the celebration of animated short films. Previously, the festival was held only in even years, but due to the popularity of the event and the expansion of the industry, an Animafest for independent short films will now be held in every odd-numbered year. Prefer the real thing? Try Eurokaz, the international festival of contemporary theatre that wings its way to Zagreb each year in June and features a myriad of international productions. And if that's not serene enough for you, how about Floraart? Zagrebís very own answer to the Chelsea Flower Shower runs for a week during summer each year. Alternatively, if youíre in town during November, make sure you partake in the City of Zagreb Day festivities on the sixteenth of the month. Plan a day around Jarun Lake - and stick around for the parties at night!

For those looking for a lasting cultural memento of their stay in Zagreb, why not splash out on a fine Croatian tie? According to the locals, Croatia is the home of the cravat, first inspiring fashionistas during the Thirty Year War of the 17th century. No use for a tie? How about a fine ball point pen? Slavoljub Eduard Penkala, the penís inventor, hailed from Zagreb and, interestingly enough, also invented the hot water bottle. If thatís not reason enough to visit, the clincher is in the fact that Zagreb played host to the 1990 Eurovision Song Contest, a vintage year by UK standards with Emmaís 'Give a Little Love Back to the World' romping into sixth position. Come back and re-live the magic!

Above: The latest in clubbing fashion

Left: Beware of market vendors selling 'quails'

Below: The inspiration behind Space Invaders?