18 Months for 162 Steps! Zagreb's Schlosser Stairs Reopen After Renovation

After a year and a half of extensive work, numerous unforeseen problems, and significant delays, the historic Schlosser stairs in Zagreb have officially reopened to the public. Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević inaugurated the renovated 162-step staircase, a crucial pedestrian route connecting the lower and upper parts of the city towards Šalata.

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Citizens missed them while the work was ongoing, but now they have been restored in the best possible way and in accordance with all conservation guidelines, as it is a protected historical core of the city.

The renovation project, which began in December 2024, was initially slated for completion by August 2025. However, workers uncovered a series of additional issues, including structural deficiencies and the need for reinforced side walls. Technical constraints related to nearby tram lines also prevented the use of a crane, further slowing progress and extending the project duration from the planned nine months to a total of 18.

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It was a rather demanding project, so everything took longer than planned. This is often the case with reconstructions. Only when you open a construction site do you see what is actually hidden underneath and what condition you are dealing with.

Mayor Tomašević acknowledged the project's extended timeline, explaining that reconstructions often reveal hidden complexities. He highlighted the challenges posed by the existing tram infrastructure and underground installations that required careful coordination with the stair renovation. The primary goal, he emphasized, was to maintain the stairs' iconic appearance while ensuring all structural components were thoroughly updated.

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It was crucial to renovate the staircase without changing its dimensions and identity. We wanted it to continue to look the same as before, but with all structural elements completely renewed.

The 1.7 million euro renovation, funded entirely by the city budget, involved replacing dilapidated parts of the structure, steps, landings, lighting, and handrails. "Practically everything has been renewed," Tomašević stated, emphasizing the importance of such projects for preserving Zagreb's cultural, historical, and tourist identity, even if they are not as spectacular as new construction. The city also plans to renovate the nearby Trg svibanjskih žrtava square following this project's completion.

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Perhaps projects like these are not as spectacular as building new buildings, but they are extremely important for the residents of the Upper and Lower Towns. They are equally important for preserving the cultural, historical, and tourist identity of Zagreb.