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Apartment is lovely - two levels- very comfortable.
Raym and I were up fairly early and went off for a wander around downtown Zagreb. Didn't come with preconceived high expectations but it wasn't long before we realised we were going to love this city! So much character and atmosphere!
Soon were back waking up Adam, all got ready and wandered off to Petar Preradovic Square and one of the many open air cafes for breakfast. Sensational! Still so much to catch up on from the past 7 months!
It's Sunday and apparently a long weekend and the city is pretty quiet. We just decided wander to the old upper town and try and soak in the incredible atmosphere! It's great!
The streets of the old upper town are amazing - even though many shops closed was just beautiful. The Cathedral, the centre of the Kaptol area is an awesome neo-gothic structure, despite being encased with some scaffolding, originally dating back to 1200s! An earthquake in 1880 caused enormous damage but has been reconstructed and restored.
Mass was in progress so we couldn't see a great deal of the interior.
After a rest in the shade out of the heat we started to head off again but encountered a troupe of traditionally clothed "soldiers" marching and on horseback approaching the square. An incredible spectacle! This was part of the changing of the guard ceremony by the Croatian regiment of the Royal Cravates (had joined with the French Army in 1664) that occurs at this time on weekends. Brilliant!
It was soon time to find a bar for a few refreshments and shelter from the heat - not difficult as cafes, taverns and alfresco restaurants everywhere!
Now far too hot to walk in the sun - so head back to the apartment for a regroup.
After rest, reorganise and few emails to sort car hire etc - freshened up before another wander through town. This time found the funicular and survived the heat (just!) for the ride up to the upper town and all the magnificent buildings of St Marks Square. Love those cobblestone streets!
Strolled back down, found a pub for a beer then a lovely restaurant for our first Croatian meal. Sensational! Trout was delicious!
Home to bed before the touring of Croatia begins tomorrow!
And, of course, sent off birthday wishes to Jared!
- comments
Greg and Deb Good to see u both Adam and Jen taking a peek each day ENJOY love Butlers