1. Stone Gate, or Kamenita Vrata in Croatian, is one of the oldest and most important landmarks in Zagreb, Croatia. It is a fortified entrance to the medieval old town of the city. The gate was first mentioned in historical records in the 13th century, but its current appearance dates back to the 18th century reconstruction. The gate is made from stone and features a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The most interesting fact about Stone Gate is that it has become a place of pilgrimage for locals and visitors alike. The chapel houses a painting of the Virgin Mary that miraculously survived a great fire in 1731. The painting is credited with protecting the city from a devastating outbreak of the plague in the following years. Today, the gate is adorned with countless candles and offerings left by people seeking protection, healing, and blessings.
2. Stone Gate is always open, allowing visitors to enter the old town freely. However, the chapel within the gate has its own opening hours. The chapel is open every day from 6 am to 10 pm, so visitors can enter and light a candle or say a prayer.
3. The entrance to Stone Gate and the chapel is free of charge. Visitors are welcome to take part in the spiritual atmosphere by lighting a candle, leaving an offering, or saying a prayer. Stone Gate is conveniently located in the upper town area of Zagreb, near the St. Mark’s Square, so it is easily accessible by foot. Public transportation, such as trams and buses, are also available to reach the area.
