I’ve been to Varaždin many times: a couple of times with my camera also! Since Varaždin is only an hour away from Zagreb, I would sometimes go there for a one-day road trip.
This time, I was entirely focused on taking photos, so I spent a couple of hours exploring with my camera. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as I planned. I mean, I’m happy with the photos I got, but the old town of Varaždin was under renovation, so I didn’t take any photos, but I’ll be back as soon as it gets finished.
So, let’s see what the Internet says about Varaždin!
Varaždin, a city in northwest Croatia, stands as the cultural, educational, and economic heart of Varaždin County, Croatia’s oldest county. Varaždin is uniquely positioned on the edge of the Pannonian Plain and the Alpine system, along the Drava River, at an elevation of 169 to 173 meters.
Boasting a moderate continental climate, Varaždin had a population of around 43,999 as per the 2021 census. The city is a significant industrial hub, ranking third in Croatia for GDP per capita. Key industries include food production, construction, textiles, metal processing, and wood industry.
Varaždin’s history is rich and varied. Remarkably, the world’s best-preserved Neanderthal remains were discovered in the Vindija cave near Varaždin. The city’s medieval importance is evident in its role in the medieval Varaždin County and its strategic significance as a trade center, particularly during the era of Turkish conquests.
In the 16th century, as the Ottoman Empire advanced, Croatian nobles fortified the region, creating a system of border guards and fortresses known as the Military Frontier, with Varaždin as a key stronghold. The 17th and 18th centuries saw significant growth and development in Varaždin, marked by the flourishing of Baroque architecture.
The 19th century brought further development with the establishment of a railway network and various political movements. The city continued to evolve culturally and economically into the 20th century, overcoming challenges like World War I and modernizing post World War II.
Varaždin’s architectural and cultural landmarks, such as the Stari Grad (Old Town) fortress, now a city museum, and its Baroque churches and monasteries, draw visitors worldwide. The city’s rich cultural life includes museums, galleries, a historic library, a vibrant theater scene, and festivals like the Varaždin Baroque Evenings and Špancirfest.
With a long cultural and historical heritage, especially its Baroque legacy, Varaždin is a key player in Croatia’s tourism sector. The city is actively enhancing its economic and rural tourism, offering a unique blend of history and modernity to every visitor.
Check the Showcase page of Varaždin by clicking HERE.
