Beloved Zagreb Icon 'Zmajček' Stolen

Zagreb is abuzz with the news of the theft of a beloved local icon, the pink Fiat 500 affectionately known as 'Zmajček'. The vintage car, a 1964 model, vanished from a parking lot near Koturaška Street, leaving its owner, Željko Vrhovski, heartbroken and the city in a state of concern. This isn't just any car; Zmajček is a symbol of Zagreb, a cheerful presence that has graced numerous films, commercials, and even a music video. Its distinctive appearance and the joy it brought to onlookers made it a familiar and cherished part of the city's landscape.

“

Yesterday around noon I came to work and since there was no parking space, I squeezed into a spot where I had parked a hundred times before. The corner of Unska and Koturaške streets. When I returned after work in the evening, the car was gone.

Vrhovski recounted the moment of discovery, explaining how he parked the car as usual near his workplace, only to find it gone upon his return. He immediately alerted the police, and a search is underway. The outpouring of support from the community has been immense, with dozens of people contacting Vrhovski, sharing their distress and offering any information they might have. One woman reportedly saw Zmajček from a bus, tearfully remarking that it represented the "heart of Zagreb."

“

There have been several reports so far, but the car has still not been found.

From our perspective at Večernji List, the theft of Zmajček transcends a simple property crime; it's an emotional blow to the city. This car is more than just metal and paint; it's a repository of memories and a source of collective pride. Vrhovski's story, filled with his deep affection for the car – a Christmas gift from his wife – and the community's empathetic response, highlights the unique bond between Zagreb's residents and their cherished landmarks. The fact that Zmajček was even instrumental in Vrhovski's daughter's successful admission to the Academy of Dramatic Arts speaks volumes about its cultural significance.

“

So far, 25 people have called me. One lady called and said she saw Zmajček from the bus. She says she sees the heart of Zagreb in it. Well, she's crying, I'm crying with her.

While international news might overlook such a story, for Zagreb, it's a matter of significant local importance. It touches upon the city's identity, its cultural heritage, and the shared experiences that bind its people. The appeal for information and the collective hope for Zmajček's safe return reflect a community rallying around a symbol of its shared identity. We are committed to keeping our readers informed and amplifying the call for Zmajček's recovery, hoping that this beloved piece of Zagreb's soul will soon be back where it belongs.

“

People love it, they take pictures, they wave at us when they see us on the streets. It was used for filming movies, commercials, a music video for the song 'Fakat sori' by Drito Konjo, and even for a wedding. My daughter made a film with the Fiat for her entrance exam to the Academy of Dramatic Arts and she passed, of course.