Each of the twelve little houses holds two crafts per house and this is the third year in a row that the artisans have presented their work and tradition at the Advent. Same as the previous years, the manifestation is organized by the Association of artisans of the city of Zagreb.
More and more citizens of Zagreb appreciate their artisans and recognize their advantages, followed by tourists, who have a chance to buy original products and take them with them as a dear memory or a gift.
“This is the second time we have been part of this manifestation. Impressions of visitors are great, and we get better and better. Tourists already recognize us and appreciate true Croatian products”, says Diana Smoljo from Klupica trade.
Whether you were looking for souvenirs, Christmas decorations, gingerbread hearts, or so-called Licitar hearts, jewelry, traditional items of clothing, paintings, or if you simply wanted to drink some mulled wine, eat a sausage or beignets, or so-called fritule, Zagreb craftsmen made sure you found what you were looking for.
For the complete experience, there are various spots where you can be photographed, such as the bench where Antun Gustav Matoš, the famous writer, sits, or in the middle of a big Licitar heart.
“This is a great location and, with a good offer, success is guaranteed. I am happy to have continued the family tradition and I like the fact that we can present our products this way”, Filip Lalić from Sitotisak Filip shared with us.
The artisans of Zagreb have participated in the Advent in the previous years as well, but this is the first time that they are all located in one spot, increasing their recognition and highlighting their amazing quality offer.
“We are pleased. Something like this is fantastic for the artisans and for the city of Zagreb. However, we won’t stop there because we know we can be even better. We are already planning the activities for the next Advent, that the citizens, guests and tourists will find interesting”, says Mirza Šabić, president of the Chamber of Crafts of Zagreb.
Let’s not forget to mention that in the past week Zagreb Advent has been declared the most beautiful Advent in Europe for the third time in a row! This has been published on the European Best Destinations portal, with Zagreb leaving behind some of the most famous European destinations, such as Vienna, Budapest and Strasbourg. Zagreb artisans surely contributed to such a success and the magic of Advent will last until January 6th. Until then, the visitors have a chance to choose from original handicrafts by diligent artisans and enjoy a unique experience.