A Century of Stories on Zagreb's Main Square
Ever wonder what stood here before the hotel? This spot has been welcoming people for nearly 200 years, starting as a merchant's home, transforming into a beloved café, and finally becoming the hotel you see today. Every corner has a story, and we're proud to be part of Zagreb's living history.
The Merchant's House That Started It All
Back in 1829, this wasn't a hotel at all. A merchant named Pavle Hatz built his house right here on what would become the main square. He wasn't just any businessman—he was a respected citizen who even served as Zagreb's mayor from 1872 to 1873.
The ground floor of his house featured a large café that quickly became a gathering spot for locals. For 100 years, people came here to meet, talk, and watch the city grow around them.
When the Hotel Was Born
In 1929, exactly a century after Hatz built his house, everything changed. The old café was torn down, and in its place rose a brand new hotel. A merchant named Milinov built it, and it carried his name at first.
This was during a time when Zagreb was transforming from a small city into something much bigger. European architects were shaping the city's character, and our building became part of that story.
The Name That Stuck
Just 13 years later in 1942, the hotel got a new identity. Business owners from the coastal city of Dubrovnik—specifically the shipping company Dubrovačka Plovidba—bought the property. They renamed it Hotel Dubrovnik, and the café became Café Dubrovnik.
That name has stayed with us ever since. Even though we're in Zagreb, we carry the spirit of Dubrovnik's legendary hospitality right here in the heart of the capital.
Growing and Evolving Over the Years
We haven't just stood still for the past 80+ years. In 1982, we added a modern glass wing on Gajeva Street, bringing a contemporary touch while keeping our historic charm. Since then, we've renovated almost everything—reception areas, conference rooms, the café, and every single guest room.
The most recent updates happened between 2014 and 2018, when we refreshed all our standard rooms. We even added new deluxe rooms in 2013 and gave our presidential suite a complete makeover.
The Same Spot, The Same Spirit
What makes this place special isn't just the building—it's the continuity. We've been in the exact same location for nearly two centuries, first as a home, then a café, and now a hotel. That's rare in any city.
The tradition of hospitality that started in Pavle Hatz's café in the 1800s? It's still alive today. We're still welcoming travelers, still serving as a meeting point, and still sitting in the best spot in Zagreb.
Why Our History Matters to Your Stay
Knowing our story helps you understand why this place feels different. You're not just staying in a hotel—you're staying in a piece of Zagreb's history. The same square that merchants and mayors walked across is right outside your window.
When you sit in our café or restaurant, you're continuing a tradition that's been happening on this exact spot since 1829. That's something you can't find in newer hotels, no matter how nice they are.