The Zagreb Cathedral stands on Kaptol as the tallest building in Croatia! Its spires can be seen from many locations in the city. This particular shot was taken from Lotrščak Tower on an autumn night.
This, typically Gothic cathedral, is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary and to kings Saint Stephen and Saint Ladislaus.
Construction of this monument started in 1093. Few hundred years later, in 1242, Tatars destroyed it. Another few hundred years later, in 15th century, the Ottoman Empire invaded Bosnia and Croatia, triggering the construction of fortification walls around the cathedral, some of which are still intact. Fast forward couple more centuries later (17th), a fortified renaissance watchtower was erected on the south side, and was used as a military observation point, because of the Ottoman threat.
The main nave collapsed and the tower was damaged beyond repair. The restoration in the Neo-Gothic style was led by Hermann Bollé, bringing the cathedral to its present form.
As part of that restoration, two spires were raised 108 m (354 ft) high on the western side. You can see one of them still being restored.
Let’s say the cathedral had its ups and downs with both, people and nature being against it.