St. Catherine's Church

St. Catherine's Church, known locally as Crkva sv. Katarine u Zagrebu, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and one of the most significant landmarks in Zagreb, Croatia. Nestled in the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad) on Katarina Zrinska Square, this church is a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage.

The History of St. Catherine's Church

The site of St. Catherine's Church has a storied past that dates back to the 14th century when a small Dominican church originally stood here. This early church served not only as a place of worship but also as a military storage facility during frequent Turkish invasions. In the first half of the 17th century, the Jesuits arrived in Zagreb and took over the administration of the derelict church. Finding it too small and in poor condition, they decided to build a new church, which was completed between 1620 and 1632.

The church faced significant challenges over the centuries, including two devastating fires in 1645 and 1674. The latter fire destroyed the church entirely, reducing it to its foundations. However, with the support of Croatian nobility, the church was rebuilt and furnished anew. In gratitude, these noble families were allowed to place their coats of arms within the church or be buried there.

After the Jesuit order was suppressed in 1773, St. Catherine's Church was handed over to the parish of St. Mark's in 1783. By 1874, it had become a university church. The church sustained damage during two earthquakes in 2020, one in Zagreb in March and a more severe one near Petrinja later in the year.

The Architecture and Interior of St. Catherine's Church

St. Catherine's Church is a single-nave structure with six side chapels and a sanctuary. The interior is adorned with rich Baroque stucco decorations dating back to 1732. The main altar, located in the sanctuary, is relatively low and stands before a large altarpiece depicting St. Catherine among Alexandrian philosophers, painted by the Ljubljana artist Kristofor Andrija Jelovšek.

The church boasts five wooden Baroque altars from the 17th century and one marble altar from 1729. The Baroque pulpit, a gift from Bishop Aleksandar Mikulić in 1690, is particularly noteworthy. Atop the canopy of the pulpit stands a statue of Pope Leo the Great, while the upper statues represent great church teachers and speakers such as Augustine, Ambrose, Charles, and St. Monica. Below, alongside Christ, are the four evangelists: John, Mark, Matthew, and Luke.

The Side Chapels

Each of the side chapels in St. Catherine's Church has its own unique history and artistic treasures:

• Chapel of St. Apollonia: Dating back to 1670, this chapel features an altarpiece depicting St. Apollonia.
• Chapel of St. Barbara: Another gem within the church, dedicated to St. Barbara.
• Chapel of St. Dionysius: This chapel houses an altarpiece by the Croatian painter Bernard Bobić, depicting St. Dionysius and his fellow martyrs Rusticus and Eleutherius.
• Chapel of the Holy Spirit: Established in 1670 and renovated in 1721 by Bishop Andrija Gerličić, this chapel features an altar crafted by Varaždin sculptor Jakov Altenbach in 1675. The altarpiece illustrates the biblical scene of the apostles' enlightenment on Pentecost.
• Chapel of St. Ignatius of Loyola: This chapel contains the only marble altar in the church, created by Venetian Baroque sculptor Francesco Robba in 1730. The altarpiece, painted by Slovenian Baroque artist Valentin Metzinger, depicts St. Ignatius. The left statue represents the renowned Parisian professor Francis Xavier, whom Ignatius made a Jesuit and apostle to India and Japan.
• Chapel of St. Francis Borgia: Donated by Baron Ratkay from Veliki Tabor in 1680, this chapel features an altar by Ivan Kommesteiner from the same year. The central painting portrays St. Francis Borgia in prayer.

Musical Heritage and Organ

St. Catherine's Church is not only a place of worship but also a venue for classical music concerts. The church's organ, built by Ferdo Heferer in 1890, is a significant musical instrument with mechanical actions and slider chests. It continues to be used for liturgical purposes and concerts, adding to the cultural life of Zagreb.

A Symbol of Resilience

Despite the challenges it has faced, including fires and earthquakes, St. Catherine's Church remains a symbol of resilience and faith in Zagreb. Its rich history, stunning Baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Croatian capital. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, artistic beauty, or the serene atmosphere, St. Catherine's Church offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Zagreb's heritage.