A rich history full of renovations
Thanks to its rich history, the cathedral is a huge attraction to both residents and visitors. The building was completed in 1217 but only a few decades later, in 1242, it was devastated by the Tatars. In 1263, the structure was completely renovated in a Gothic style. Walls and towers were added in the 16th century and in the 17th century a huge tower was placed next to the cathedral. Since 1990, the cathedral is undergoing gradual renovations to preserve its condition.
Not just a pretty façade
The cathedral, which seats 5,000 people, features neo-Gothic marble altars, stained glass and a beautiful pulpit. It is also the final resting place of the controversial Croatian Archbishop Aloysius Stepinac, who is buried in a tomb made by Croatian sculptor and architect Ivan Meštrović. An image of the archbishop can be seen on a raised platform behind the main altar. Stepinac led the Croatian Catholic Church during World War II, and although never proven, there are strong indications that he had ties to the Nazis.