The Courtyards: A Glance at Life as It Once Was

When the doors of amazing historical courtyards in the Upper Town in Zagreb open once more from 12 to 21 July, it will be a chance to glance at life as it once was. This will occur within the sixth edition of the Courtyards.

Otherwise inaccessible to the public, courtyards in Zagreb will be open during ten days, for the sixth consecutive year. From 12 to 21 July visitors will be able to peer in the hidden corners with interesting past but also present which continue their life owing to current inhabitants or institutions.

This event sparks off a lot of interest among visitors each year because it allows them to enter spaces that are otherwise inaccessible to the public. Whether they are privately owned or a property of historical institutions of the Upper Town, for this occasion courtyards are decorated and entertaining activities are added. These are suitable and carefully selected concerts and catering services which allow visitors to enjoy authentic historical spaces and atmosphere. It is also an opportunity for hosts to add authentic traditional elements suitable to the particular period and lifestyle so courtyards are similar to a time machine which takes us to see the lives of families that used to live there and experience social life of the city. An informative board will be put up at the entrance to each courtyard, with a description of historical importance of the courtyard and list of events visitors can see in it.

Each year the organisers open new historical courtyards so last year for the first time one courtyard which is not situated in the Upper Town opened its door to the public. Therefore it is certain that visitors will encounter many surprises this year as well, but also enjoy touring and staying in unrevealed courtyards during the event. The Courtyards have also earned eloquent descriptions and a lot of praise of foreign media.

The courtyards remain open from 18 to 24 during the event, and the entrance is free of charge.