Shrine in Marija Bistrica became the national shrine in 1715 when the Croatian parliament built a big votive altar at the church in Marija Bistrica. As Marian devotions grew and many prayers got answered by seeking intercession of Saint Mary of Bistrica, the shrine’s church became tight and too small so Bistrica’s parish priest Juraj Žerjavić had the church and the parish house with arcades extended and reconstructed following the designs of architect Friedrich von Schmidt and his student Hermann Bollé. The new church was built in Neo-Renaissance style.

This sanctuary gives you the opportunity to touch and hold koalas in the world’s largest koala enclosure. The site is easily accessible by bus from the CBD, or via Miramar Cruises who make daily trips from the South Bank’s Cultural Centre pontoon at 10 am.

This is a location full of ancient artifacts bearing traces of life dating back to the bronze Age, Antiquity and the arrival of the Croats. Lobor is often called the cradle of Christianity in northern Croatia. Testimony to this can be found in the baptistery from the Old Christian period and the old Croatian cemetery from the 11th century above which the church was built.

Hamnmagasinet is an art gallery located in the area around the harbour, Society Park and the Fortress. Housed in an 1874 building, this arts centre offers various exhibitions and workshops all year round. Featuring paintings, crafts, ceramics, and silversmith workshops, the gallery predominantly highlights contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy these artistic offerings against the backdrop of a picturesque view of the harbour.