The “Medvednica nature park” public institution and the Zagreb Rotary Club have launched a reconstruction and development project of Kraljičin zdenac (“the Queen's well”), aimed at revamping the source of the well according to the historical matrix, clean and revamp the lakes for trout-breeding, reconstruct the hospitality facility and its immediate surroundings, clean the bed of the brook Kraljevec and reconstruct two dried-out ponds.

A reconstruction of the well’s stone wall is also planned, and the erection of a memorial. The entire project will cost around 250,000 HRK, and a part of the funds will be provided by the Tourism Ministry.  Kraljičin zdenac is a great natural monument and one of the favourite excursion destinations for Zagreb locals. It is located 529 meters above sea-level and is one of the strongest sources of the Kraljevec brook (in its lower course it is also known as Medveščak).

The cool well in the thick forest has always attracted hikers seeking a primal nature experience without too much effort. The most popular way to get to the well is a pleasant path which meanders from Šestinski lagvić through the forest shade along the Kraljevec stream. The path was built in the 19th century by Count Miroslav Kulmer for his wife Elvira to take walks, which is why the path was then named after her. Today, the name Miroslavec is more common. Next to the path, educational signs have been put up, explaining the interesting geological structure and history of Medvednica.

The well is named after the legendary Black Queen (“Crna kraljica”), most probably Barbara of Celj, King Sigismund’s second wife, who was, according to legends, a vicious and debauched mistress of Medvedgrad. Before WWI, count Kulmer from Šestine erected a forest lodge, and beneath it a lake for trout-breeding.

City of Zagreb Tourist Board
www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

Medvednica Nature Park
www.pp-medvednica.hr