STRUCTURAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE BELFRY, MONASTERY AND CHURCH OF ST. FRANCIS ON THE KAPTOL IN ZAGREB

This paper presents the process of constructive renovation of the complex of the belfry, monastery, and church of St. Francis on Kaptol in Zagreb. The complex dates to the 13th century and is located in the heart of Zagreb’s historic center. Constructed entirely in masonry, it reflects the architectural principles and construction techniques of its time, with design solutions tailored to the function of each individual space and structure. Over the centuries, the complex has endured various forms of damage caused by multiple earthquakes, fires, and wartime destruction, necessitating several phases of restoration. The most recent damage resulted from two significant earthquakes in March and December 2020, rendering the complex unfit for use. The company Spegra Ltd. from Split, Croatia, conducted a comprehensive structural rehabilitation, ensuring the building’s full static and structural stability in accordance with the restoration project. In response to the diverse causes and types of damage, as well as the complex structural behavior of different elements, appropriate technological solutions and materials were implemented. As the complex is a protected cultural heritage site, all restoration work was undertaken with the utmost care, in close collaboration with conservation specialists and under their continuous supervision.