On remote hilltops of Croatia stand giant reminders built to celebrate a state which no longer exists: former Yugoslavia. Meet the Yugoslav monuments in our photography tour focused on relics of a once glorious time.
The memorials were commissioned in the 1960s and 1970s by Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito to commemorate WWII battles and atrocities, but mostly to celebrate the plight and victory of the people, who had risen up to fight a mighty oppressor.
The futuristic concrete and steel structures were designed by different sculptors and represented the strength and confidence of Tito’s socialist republic. Nowadays, many of these Yugoslav monuments are abandoned or forgotten.
The itinerary of this tour includes the 3 main monuments around Zagreb: Petrova Gora, Podgaric and Jasenovac.
Located in a forest 90 km south of Zagreb, Petrova Gora memorial offers an unforgettable experience. This giant structure is a perfect playground for photography and architecture lovers. Originally encased in aluminium siding, the partially missing façade offers more light for the interior’s winding staircase. Climbing to the terrace offers a broad view of the area.
A drive over rolling hills brings us to the remote Podgarić monument. This concrete and aluminium structure is dedicated to the revolution of the local people of the Moslavina region. Its space-like design lets imagination run loose.
Finally, we visit the Jasenovac memorial, the final Yugoslav monument of this tour, located near the Bosnian border. It is dedicated to the suffering of prisoners in the nearby concentration camp and resembles a flower. It is lit up in the evening hours and offers many options in photographing its majestic appearance.
Required experience and equipment
All levels of photography experience are welcome, the tour leader will adapt to your knowledge and needs. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and moderate trails. Your camera bag, tripod and any other equipment should not be too heavy or large. Avoid rolling photo bags, use smaller backpacks. Polarizing and ND filters, as well as macro lenses are recommended, but not necessary.
Julien Duval
Photographer guide
Julien Duval is a French photographer specializing in travel and concert photography. After obtaining a geography degree in France, he came to Croatia for an internship and fell in love with the country. He has explored Croatia for 7 years and captured with his camera its amazing scenery. His clients mainly include tourist boards, tourists agencies and musicians. His work is regularly published in Croatian, French and international media.
Krasnodar Peršun
Photographer guide
A red carpet veteran of film festivals across Europe, Krasnodar Peršun today teaches at a private media school in Zagreb. His work led him on travels far beyond Croatia, only to show him that the best sights are at home. He’s been using the experience gained through photojournalism to help others advance in photography. He loves the mid-Adriatic island of Pag, where he vacations and creates magical images. A freelance career has given him the ability to pursue his wants and needs in photography and beyond.
Tour departures
Any day of the year, on request.
Tour details
After a 1h drive, the first stop is the Podgarić monument. From Podgarić, another 1h will place us at the Jasenovac memorial, where you can also tour the museum. After another 1.5h drive to the Petrova Gora monument, the return to Zagreb takes another 1h. On the way, the road crosses rolling hills and typical Croatia countryside and villages, offering additional photo opportunities.
TOUR DURATION: around 10h, starting at 8 a.m., depending on the time of the year and guest preferences. In case daylight is too short, guests can choose which two monuments to visit.
DEPARTING FROM: Any point in Zagreb or nearby cities.
GROUP SIZE: 1-7 guests (single guests can join for price of two).
Tour fee
120€ per person, payable at the start of the journey. 50% discount for children under age 15. Fee includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, photographer guide fee and unlimited personal photos by the photographer. Does not include meals or drinks.