Purger and Purgerica
The First Public Transport in Zagreb
From Idea to Realization The Zagreb funicular was the city’s first public transport system. It began operating in 1890, while the first horse-drawn tram was introduced a year later, in 1891. The funicular connects the Upper Town and Lower Town, and its construction is credited to Osijek-based entrepreneur David William Klein.
In 1888, Mr. Klein began observing pedestrian traffic along Bregovita Street (today known as Tomićeva Street) leading up to the Upper Town. Based on his findings, foot traffic was sufficiently heavy, leading him to conclude that building a funicular would be a worthwhile investment. He applied to the City of Zagreb for permission, which was granted very quickly. Construction began on May 6, 1889, though not without difficulties. During the first test run in February 1890, the main bearing of the machine failed, causing the entire mechanism to break down. However, a second test run was successfully completed in less than a month.
From Its Beginnings to the Present Day The funicular officially opened on October 8, 1890, without any special ceremony. It originally operated on steam power, with two cars running alternately, and the engine room located at the upper station. The first passenger cabins were divided into three sections. The front sections, offering views of Grič or Ilica, were considered first class, while the middle section, with a poorer view, was designated as second class. Regular service was established only on April 23, 1893.
Over the years, the funicular experienced frequent breakdowns, and passengers occasionally had to step out and push it. In 1929, it came under the ownership of the City of Zagreb. Steam power was replaced by electricity in 1934. Due to wear and the need for renovation, operations were suspended in 1969. A new funicular was put into service on July 26, 1974. The Vienna-based company Waagner-Biro was responsible for the drive system and vehicles, while Siemens handled the electrical components.
To ensure reliable operation—and to spare passengers from ever having to push it again—the funicular undergoes regular annual maintenance. Currently, as part of the “Revitalization of the Zagreb Funicular” project, comprehensive restoration works have been underway since January 20, 2025, and are scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2026. In addition to modernizing the drive system and installing new cabins, the project also includes improvements in accessibility.
Interesting Facts Because it has preserved its original exterior appearance, structural design, and most of its technical features, the Zagreb funicular is legally protected as a cultural monument. It is maintained and operated by Zagreb Electric Tram (ZET).
It is among the shortest funicular railways in the world used for public transport. The track is 66 meters long, and the ride lasts just 64 seconds.
In addition to numerous presidents, members of parliament, mayors, archbishops, and dignitaries, the funicular also carried Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall in 2016.