Parliament Palace

Sabor Palace is the historic seat of the Croatian Parliament located on St. Mark's Square in the Upper Town of Zagreb. The building combines elements of classicism, neo-renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles, creating a distinctive landmark in Croatia's capital. Since 2024, the parliament has been temporarily meeting at a different location due to earthquake restoration work.

How did the parliament building come to be?

Although the Croatian Parliament held sessions in Zagreb since the 13th century, it only acquired a permanent venue in 1731. Before that, legislative debates took place in the houses of city dignitaries, royal courts, and episcopal residences. The first session in the newly purchased building was held on May 6, 1737. The current appearance of Sabor Palace took shape much later – in 1911, based on designs by architects Lav Kalda and Karlo Susan. The extended construction and adaptation process resulted in a mix of architectural styles from different periods, making it an important cultural monument.

What will you see in the area?

Sabor Palace stands opposite the government headquarters on St. Mark's Square, which is a tourist attraction in itself. The square's centerpiece is St. Mark's Church with its famous colorful tiled roof displaying the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, Slavonia, and Zagreb. The baroque facade of the parliament building catches the eye of visitors exploring the Upper Town. The neighborhood forms the heart of historic Zagreb with narrow streets, museums, and scenic viewpoints.

What's happening now?

The building sustained damage during the March 2020 Zagreb earthquake and requires comprehensive renovation. In September 2024, the parliament temporarily relocated to Petar Zrinski Barracks in the Črnomerec district, home to the Croatian Military Academy. The restoration work includes structural reinforcement and energy modernization. Initially scheduled for completion in 2027, the project timeline has been extended to spring 2028 due to additional structural work required.

Frequently asked questions

Can you tour the inside of Sabor Palace? During the ongoing renovation, the building is closed to tourists. After the restoration is complete, access policies may change – check the parliament's official website for current information.

How do you get to St. Mark's Square? The Upper Town is located in central Zagreb, near the Lower Town connected by a funicular railway. From the city center, you can walk in about fifteen minutes or take local buses. The square sits close to Lotrščak Tower and the cathedral.

Is it worth visiting the area despite the building being closed? Absolutely. St. Mark's Square and its surroundings form the heart of historic Zagreb with numerous museums, cafes, and viewpoints. The parliament building itself is impressive from the outside, and the nearby church ranks among the city's most iconic sights.

When is the best time to explore the Upper Town? The area is attractive year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for strolling through narrow streets. Summer can be more crowded but it's ideal for enjoying outdoor cafes. In winter, snow often blankets the square, adding charm to the historic architecture.