Mlaka Park

Mlaka Park (Park Mlaka) is a magnificent historic garden and one of the oldest green spaces in the city of Rijeka. Created in the late 19th century, it is rightly considered a true gem of Croatia. The park covers an area of about 37,000 m² and is situated on a picturesque southern slope, well-sheltered from the cold bora wind.

Mlaka Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The landscape ensemble was designed in 1874 by Dr. Filibert Bazarig at the request of the city authorities. The area, formerly known as Giardino Pubblico, is divided into two parts. The upper zone has retained its majestic Austro-Hungarian appearance with terraces overgrown with downy oak and laurel, while the lower part attracts attention with open lawns and decorative flower beds.

This park is a significant cultural site, blending natural beauty with historical architecture. For tourists, it is an ideal place to experience the atmosphere of old Europe and relax in the shade of centuries-old cedars and exotic trees while admiring the thoughtful design of the past century.

To plan your visit to Mlaka Park, it's helpful to have official address information on hand. The site is easily accessible from the city's main thoroughfares.

A visit to Mlaka Park inspires a calm and contemplative mood. Here, you can wander along cascading terraces, exploring a rich collection of plants: from noble laurels and downy oaks to majestic redwoods and ancient cedars. This place is perfect for those seeking solitude and wanting to enjoy nature without traveling far from the city center.

Visitors should look out for historical details, such as fragments of an old pond where goldfish once swam, and the elegant wrought-iron fence preserved from long ago. The park is excellent for family outings, atmospheric photo shoots against the backdrop of old alleys, or leisurely reading on one of the shaded benches. Thanks to the abundance of freshwater springs and streams flowing through the territory, it always remains fresh and pleasantly cool.

Getting to Mlaka Park, located at Krešimirova ul. 60, is quick and easy. From the city center, it is a comfortable 15–20 minute walk. The route takes you along lively streets, allowing you to admire the city architecture along the way.

If you prefer public transport, you can use the city buses—many routes stop in the immediate vicinity of the park entrance. You can also take a taxi; the trip from the main railway station or the city center will take no more than 5–10 minutes.

For those using a navigator, the coordinates 45.3337372, 14.4238806 will help you find the exact location. Thanks to its convenient position on the southern slope, the approaches to the park are comfortable for pedestrians and protected from strong winds.

The history of Mlaka Park began in 1874 when the Mayor of Rijeka, G. Ciotta, initiated the creation of a public garden on a plot of land purchased from Baron Juraj Vranyczany. The project was designed by Dr. Filibert Bazarig, who skillfully utilized the landscape's natural freshwater springs.

In the past, the park was the main center of the city's social life. It regularly hosted promenade concerts, May festivities, and large student gatherings. The area where the park is located was historically called Cecilinovo—named after the ancient chapel of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, which emphasized the cultural significance of the site.

In 1951, the park underwent a major reconstruction of its lower section following the construction of a new road. The process was led by architects Zdenko Sila and Zdenko Kolacio. Despite the changes in the 20th century, the park's upper terraces still retain their authentic Austro-Hungarian character, recalling the days of the empire's former glory.

For a standard tour of Mlaka Park, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to stroll leisurely through the terraces, admire the centuries-old trees, and take beautiful photos of the park's historical elements.

If you plan to have a small picnic on one of the lawns or want to spend time in silence, enjoying the sun on the wind-sheltered slope, your stay could last up to 3 hours. The park is ideal for taking a break during a busy tourist itinerary.

Mlaka Park is open to residents and visitors at any time. You can plan your visit without worrying about a schedule, as the site operates on the following basis:

Monday — Sunday: 24 hours a day.

This open access allows you to enjoy the beauty of the park both in the rays of the morning sun and during romantic evening walks under the lamplight.

Exploring the surroundings of Mlaka Park will allow you to learn more about the city's industrial and maritime heritage. The park's favorable location makes it an excellent starting point for a walking tour of key historical sites.

The following attractions are located in the immediate vicinity of the green zone: