Zagreb, a City on the Sava
Another promenade will be opened in mid-September along the Sava, the longest Croatian waterway, the river which flows through the city of Zagreb. Thus, the citizens and their guests will have another promenade on the river's banks and yet another spot from which to savor the beauty of the river or benefit from the increasing number of opportunities for sports, recreation, entertainment or fine wining and dining.
The new promenade will be found on the southern bank of the Sava, between the Railway Bridge and the Youth Bridge. The 3.5 km long promenade, not far from Bundek Lake, is equally attractive for strollers and cyclists. An investment of 3.3 million Kuna went toward the installation of lampposts at every 25 meters, benches and litter baskets at every 200 meters. The promenade is just one element in the project aimed at returning Zagreb to the Sava, which joins the ranks of the already existing important recreational zones – Jarun and Bundek Lakes. The first one, Jarun, was built in 1987, in the southwestern part of the city, not far from the Sava embankment. The sports and recreation center Jarun was built for the International University Games which were held that year in Zagreb. It is a large complex that stretches across 240 hectares of land and is comprised of two lakes with five islands interconnected by bridges. Long walking and cycling paths, sports grounds, entertainment facilities, pubs, bars and restaurants draw visitors to Jarun at all times of the year. Because of its 2,500 meters of pebble beaches, which have been awarded three international Blue Flags for cleanliness, Jarun has been dubbed the Sea of Zagreb. A great deal of attention is paid to individuals with special needs who are able to benefit from their own beach at Jarun with all the necessary facilities. There is also a multi-sensory park specially adapted to the blind and sight impaired, as well as to persons with different types of disabilities.
The 2,500 meter-long rowing regatta lane is the venue of international rowing, canoe and kayak competitions.
Two years ago, Bundek Park was opened in New Zagreb, at a stone's throw from the Zagreb fair grounds. The favorite bathing spot of Zagreb’s citizens in the middle of last century was given a new lease of life when it became part of the project aimed at bringing Zagreb closer to the banks of the Sava. Two lakes, beaches, delightful promenades and sports and recreational facilities have turned Bundek into an attractive outing spot and venue for concerts, theater shows and other events, such as the Floraart international garden show, which took place for the 43rd consecutive time earlier this year in Zagreb.
Published: 01.09.2008