The stairway was originally built to fulfill a vow made by Petar Kružić after his defense of the Klis Fortress against the Ottoman Empire.
The path includes a total of 538 steps, though the original count was lower before subsequent extensions.
Multiple votive chapels built into the structure were added by wealthy local families throughout the 17th and 18th centuries.
The route serves as a historical link between the coastal city of Rijeka and the inland defensive position of Trsat Castle.
The stairway acts as the primary pedestrian approach for pilgrims visiting the nearby Trsat Sanctuary, which houses a venerated icon of the Virgin Mary.
The Petar Kružić Stairway is a historic pedestrian staircase consisting of 538 stone steps connecting the city center of Rijeka to the hilltop Trsat Castle. Construction began in 1531, commissioned by Croatian army captain Petar Kružić as a votive path for pilgrims. The stairway features several Baroque-style votive chapels built between the 15th and 18th centuries along the ascent. It serves as the traditional pilgrimage route to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Trsat. The climb spans a significant elevation gain, transitioning from urban street level to a forested hillside path. The steps are constructed from local stone and have undergone various renovations while maintaining their historical footprint. It remains an active route for both tourists and locals traveling between the Rječina river valley and the Trsat plateau.
The mid-ascent section offers a framed perspective of the stone chapels with the cityscape of Rijeka visible in the background.
Wear athletic or sturdy walking shoes as the stone surface can be uneven and slick when damp.
Bring a water bottle, as the climb is physically demanding and there are few service stops on the stairs themselves.
Start the climb in the early morning to avoid peak heat during the summer months.
Attempting the climb during the height of the midday summer sun without hydration.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as this is an active pilgrimage route and contains religious chapels.
