Varaždin- peaceful, charming, beautiful
Many Croatians call this town „Little Vienna“ because of its Baroque architecture of the historic City core. And indeed, it's a must-see destination, if you ever go on a trip to North Croatia. The City of Angles or Bicycles are other names for this town, and if you ask yourself why, just take a quick walk around and you will find out for sure.
Being located on the southern bank of the river Drava, as well as having mild annual temperatures, gave Varaždin a perfect spot to grow, which was one of the main reasons for being the capital of Croatia from 1767 to 1776. Unfortunately, the town was destroyed by fire in 1776 and the capital was moved to Zagreb, where it has been ever since.
The Old Town castle of Varaždin
What makes Varaždin stand out from other Croatian cities is it's well preserved and rich urban complex. The Old Town (Stari Grad) used to be a typical medieval fortress, around which the city grew. The city center is full of churches, like the Cathedral of Varaždin, which was built in 1647, as well as the Saint Nicholas' church, which is the oldest church in Varaždin, dating back to the year of 1172.
The Saint Nicholas' Church
A well-known trademark of Varaždin is its cemetery, which people often describe as one the most beautiful in all of Europe. It used to be an ordinary cemetery until it was reconstructed and made into a park-like cemetery.
Varaždin is also known for its annual Varaždin Baroque Evenings, a classical musical festival, held since 1971 and taking place mostly between late September and early October, where philharmonic orchestras, opera singers and soloists perform.
But by far the most famous and important cultural festival of Varaždin is the Špancirfest festival. It's an annual festival held since 1999, beginning in late August and lasting 10 days. Street performers, musicians, artists and different kinds of shops are flooding the streets during this time and Varaždin is hosting over 100 000 during this festival
People wearing traditional costumes at Špancirfest
So what exactly do you do when visiting Varaždin in the time of Špancirfest...well, you just walk around the city and let yourself amaze in Varaždin's rich cultural heritage, good food and outgoing and friendly people. Just come and visit Varaždin.