Varaždin is one of the cities you mustn’t miss when you are in Croatia. It’s located on the banks of the Drava River and is surrounded by Zagorje, Podravina, Štajerska, and Međimurje.

The city center of Varaždin, Croatia, photo credit by TZGV
Varaždin is according to Croatians the most pleasant city for living. Since 1993, Varaždin has been the head of Varaždin County.
But – more important – Varaždin used to be the capital of Croatia.

Purgari, Varaždin, Croatia, photo credit by TZGV
Do not miss to visit the baroque city when you go to Croatia.
Due to constant turmoil, competition, and strengthening of the Hungarian, but then rich and influential Croatian nobility, Maria Theresa sought to strengthen absolute power and a unified state, and in 1767 the Queen established the first modern Croatian government; the Croatian Royal Council based in Varaždin.

Varaždin, Croatia, Herzer Palace, photo credit by TZGV
Varaždin was the capital of Croatia
No, Varaždin was the capital for only 9 years, because, after the great Varaždin fire in 1776, the Royal Council moved to Zagreb. Varaždin was the capital of Croatia from 1767 to 1776. At that time, beautiful baroque palaces and public buildings were built in it, which have preserved donations and give it the characteristics of a baroque city.

Varaždin, Gajeva Street, Croatia, photo credit by TZGV
In spe that your host in Croatia will suggest you visit Varaždin – let us take you around…

St. Nicola’s church in Varaždin, Croatia, photo credit by TZGV

Varazdin, Tower, Croatia, photo credit by TZGV
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[…] Old Town of Varaždin is a great place to see and walk around enjoying Baroque, Rococo, Classicist, and Secessionist houses and villas as well as one of the oldest City Halls in Europe. It’s the city of bell towers and angels…like Anđelinjak or Angels nest …. […]