For more than a decade, the Honorary Company of the Kravat Regiment has been attracting the attention of domestic and foreign visitors to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. This unique project, based on the idea of Marijan Bušić and realized in cooperation with the Zagreb Tourist Board, has become an indispensable part of Zagreb’s tourist offer.
The Historical Roots of the Cravat on the Streets of Zagreb
The Kravat Regiment, in uniforms inspired by 17th-century Croatian soldiers, brings the spirit of the past to the very heart of Zagreb. The attractive Changing of the Guard ceremony is held every Saturday at noon on St. Mark’s Square in the upper town of Zagreb, starting from Easter Monday and continuing until autumn.
The program begins at noon with the sound of the Zagreb cannon from the Lotrščak Tower, the preparation of the guard, the inspection of weapons and the ceremonial formation and parade through the city. The ceremony, which includes cavalry, infantry and a drum band, revives the forgotten tradition of soldiers of the glorious past, while also highlighting the historical significance of the cravat – Croatia’s contribution to world cultural heritage.
The cravat as a symbol of Zagreb
This tourist spectacle has positioned Zagreb as the Capital of the Cravat. The reactions of visitors and media coverage testify to its originality and appeal, making it an indispensable attraction for tourists, but also the pride of citizens.
Special occasions and dates
In addition to regular weekend performances, the Honorary Company of the Kravat Regiment also commemorates important dates such as:
- Victory and Homeland Gratitude Day when the south of the country was liberated (August 5)
- Zagreb City Day (May 31)
- Anti-fascist Struggle Day, a sign of resistance during World War II (June 22)
- World Tourism Day (September 27)
- Statehood Day when the first democratic Parliament after communism was constituted (May 30)
- Kravat Day (October 18)
This ceremony is not just a return to the past – it is also a reminder of the enduring connection between Croatian heritage and world history.
