In the heart of the Upper Town, where every passage hides stories of the past, lies the Stone Gate. As the only preserved city gate of medieval Gradec (today's Upper Town), it has been connecting people and streets for centuries, serving as a silent witness to history and everyday life. Built-in the 13th century as part of the defensive walls, the Stone Gate was essential for security within the walls of Gradec, protecting its inhabitants from external threats.
In its simple, solid stone construction, the Stone Gate symbolizes durability and resilience. It is not only a passage but also a monument to unity and strength, essential for survival in the turbulent Middle Ages.
Gradec in the Middle Ages
Gradec, one of the two historical settlements that later formed Zagreb, was a fortified town located on the hill of today's Upper Town. Surrounded by walls and towers, Gradec was a refuge for craftsmen and merchants and a symbol of autonomy. The inhabitants of Gradec were engaged in various trades: blacksmiths, potters, bakers, and merchants, which were the backbone of city life. St. Mark's Square was the center of commercial activity, while the Church of St. Mark and the city court formed the administrative and spiritual center.
Gradec's relationship with the nearby Kaptol, a settlement of canons, was full of rivalry and conflict. The border between the two settlements was the Medveščak Stream, often called the Bloody Bridge due to the frequent clashes between the inhabitants of the two towns. In addition, the threat from surrounding fortresses such as Medvedgrad, located on the slopes of Medvednica, further shaped the way of life of the inhabitants of Gradec, who often had to defend themselves from external attacks.
The Legend of Dora Krupićeva
The Stone Gate is also associated with the legend of Dora Krupićeva, the daughter of the old gatekeeper of the Stone Gate. According to legend, Dora was a girl of exceptional beauty and kindness, known for helping her father lock the gate every day against the dangers of the night. Legend has it that Gradec was at one point under threat of attack from Medvedgrad, a fortress known for its powerful lords and warriors.
One night, while closing the gate, Dora saw a young man from Medvedgrad, a knight in love who wanted peace between the two settlements. Their love was forbidden due to the conflict between Gradec and Medvedgrad, but Dora believed in reconciliation. According to the story, Dora stood at the Stone Gate, praying to the Mother of God to save Gradec at the moment of the decisive battle. When the attack ended, the Stone Gate remained intact, and the story of Dora Krupić was engraved in the history of the city as a symbol of faith, love, and courage.
The Stone Gate and the Miracle of 1731
The most famous event related to the Stone Gate occurred on the night of May 30-31, 1731, when a great fire swept through Gradec. While the fire destroyed many houses and buildings, the image of the Mother of God, which was located inside the Stone Gate, remained intact, although the wooden frame was completely burned down. This event was considered a miracle, and the Mother of God of the Stone Gate became the patron saint of Zagreb.
Today, the image is kept in a small chapel inside the Stone Gate passage, where many believers light candles and pray for protection and mercy. The walls of the passage are filled with thank-you plaques that testify to the personal stories of people who believe in the miraculous power of this holy place.
Thank-you plaques and silent witnesses
The walls of the Stone Gate passage are filled with thank-you plaques from people who have found peace, protection, or answers to their prayers in this holy place. These plaques, simple in form but rich in meaning, tell silent stories of personal tragedies, victories, and faith. They add a personal dimension to a place that is special not only for the people of Zagreb but also for visitors from all over the world.
Stone Gate Day
Every May 31, Zagreb celebrates Stone Gate Day, also known as Zagreb City Day. This day commemorates a miracle from 1731 when an image of the Mother of God survived a great fire. A ceremonial procession then passes through the streets of the Upper Town, gathering Zagreb residents and believers from all over Croatia.
The procession begins at the Stone Gate, and the image of the Mother of God, known as the patron saint of Zagreb, is carried through the historic streets of the city. Ceremonial rituals and prayers connect historical heritage and spiritual tradition, creating a special moment of togetherness for believers and all visitors.
Kamenita Vrata today
Today, Kamenita Vrata is not just a historical monument, but a vibrant place that connects the past and present of Zagreb. Nestled between the bustling streets and quiet corners of the Upper Town, the gate offers a moment of silence and introspection in the modern city rhythm.
It is important to note that when passing through Kamenita Vrata, one should be quiet and considerate of the worshippers who gather there to light a candle or pray before the image of the Mother of God. For Croats, she is not only the patron saint of Zagreb but is also revered under the title "Queen of the Croats", connecting the people with the Marian tradition.
In Croatia, Marian shrines are among the most visited, and the feast of the Assumption, August 15, is one of the greatest religious and national holidays. Thousands of believers visit shrines across the country on this day, expressing their deep devotion to the Mother of God.
Why visit Kamenita Vrata?
Whether you are a history buff, seeking spiritual peace, or simply want to experience the special atmosphere of the Upper Town, Kamenita Vrata offers a unique combination of history and spirituality. These small places invite you to stop, rest, and feel connected to something greater.
By passing through Kamenita Vrata, you enter a space where the material and the spiritual, history and modernity, merge. The meditative silence, the scent of wax and candles, and the breeze from the Upper Town create a special atmosphere – a kind of portal through time.
We recommend Kamenita Vrata to everyone who appreciates historical places, enjoys silence, or is looking for a moment of introspection. There is no better place for those who want to feel the spirit of Zagreb. Stop, listen to the silence, and feel connected to this beautiful city's spiritual heritage.
