Maksimir Park celebrates 230 years with return of boat rides

Maksimir Park (Photo: Boška i Krešo / Zagreb Tourist Board)

Maksimir Park, which is the oldest public park in the Croatian capital Zagreb, is celebrating its 230th anniversary.

Maksimir Park was the first large public park in South-Eastern Europe and was opened in 1794 under the initiative of the man for whom it was named, Bishop Maksimilijan Vrhovac of Zagreb (1752–1827).

The 230th anniversary of the park will be commemorated with boat rides, signalling the return of rowing on Maksimir Park’s First Lake.

Maksimir Park (Photo credit: Sandra Tralic)

“132 years ago today, a small petroleum-powered steamboat named Zagreb Grad sailed on the First Lake,” Nika Dolenc, director of the Public Institution for the Management of Natural Values of the City of Zagreb told HRT.

The boat ride will last around half an hour, with a cost of 8 euros per boat.

Three cottages have been placed near the First Lake, and are named after former buildings: Mirna Koliba, Slavuj Gaj, and Mali Glorijet. Inside, they house small hospitality venues, a souvenir shop, and a patisserie, explained Dolenc.

Maksimir (photo credit: Sandra Tralic)

“This is not only the first public park in Zagreb but also in this part of Europe. It is Zagreb’s Central Park. Just as rowing is possible on the lake there, it will now be possible here in Zagreb as well. I believe that the people of Zagreb, as well as other visitors, will make even more use of Maksimir,” said Mayor Tomašević.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs from the park and enjoy refreshments such as ice cream or drinks.