'We'll meet at Vjesnik's!': There is no skyscraper, we asked Zagreb residents if they should 'disappear' and the name of the tram station

A video titled “Nađemo se kod Vjesnika!” has sparked public debate over whether the name of a nearby tram stop should remain unchanged despite the demolition of the historic newspaper building known as Vjesnik. The discussion unfolded after the last remnants of the Vjesnik complex were removed, leaving behind only scattered traces of its once-prominent presence in Zagreb. As workers completed their work, questions arose among passersby about whether the tram station’s name, still bearing the legacy of the newspaper, should stay or change. Those interviewed expressed a consensus that the name should remain, citing its deep historical and cultural significance. The Vjesnik building, which stood for decades in central Zagreb, was more than just a structure, it became part of the city's identity. For generations, it served as a landmark, guiding residents through the streets and symbolizing a golden era of Croatian journalism. The building, which housed one of the country’s most influential daily newspapers, was a hub of intellectual activity and media influence. Its demolition marks the end of an era, yet many believe its legacy should not fade with its physical form. Among those who spoke out, Božidar emphasized that the name of the tram stop should remain as a tribute to the past. He recalled how locals often used the phrase “nađemo se kod Vjesnika” as a familiar reference point, much like saying “we meet at the top.” Similarly, Alen argued that the name had long since transcended the building itself, becoming an integral part of Zagreb’s cultural fabric. He noted that the tram stop had carried the name since 1972, making it a fixture in the city’s history. Even though the building is gone, he believes keeping the name would preserve a piece of the city’s heritage. Mirko echoed this sentiment, stating that the name carries weight beyond the physical structure. He lamented the loss of the building, which had been a cornerstone of Zagreb’s journalistic landscape, and suggested that retaining the tram stop’s name could serve as a bridge between past and present. He pointed out that while print media has declined in relevance, the name might still spark curiosity among younger generations, prompting them to learn more about the newspaper’s role in shaping the city’s narrative. Jasna added another layer to the argument, suggesting that the name could act as a memory aid for future generations. She noted that younger people today may not recognize the name, and even those born in recent years may not fully grasp its significance. Yet she believed that maintaining the name could help keep the story alive, ensuring that the contributions of the Vjesnik journalists and editors are not forgotten. The conversation gained momentum following a letter sent by the Croatian Association of Sports Journalists (HZSN) to Mayor Tomislav Tomašević and ZET, the operator of Zagreb’s public transport system. In the letter, they urged both parties to consider preserving the tram stop’s name as a symbolic gesture. They highlighted that although the building is no longer standing, its impact on Zagreb and Croatian journalism remains profound. The association stressed that the name represents not only a historical site but also a collective memory of the city’s intellectual and cultural evolution. As the debate continues, the question of whether to retain the name of the tram stop reflects broader discussions about how cities handle the legacies of their past. While some argue that modernization necessitates changes, others see value in holding onto names that carry emotional and historical weight. The outcome of this particular discussion will likely shape how Zagreb chooses to remember its journalistic roots, and how future generations engage with that history.