About this experience
I invite you on a car trip to the castles and monasteries of the picturesque Dolenska region - a land of rivers, forests, and lakes. You will visit amazing places - religious, architectural, and natural landmarks, hear many interesting stories and legends, and learn about the country, its inhabitants, way of life, and traditions.
Program
Main points of our route:
Kostanjevica on Krka
The town is located on a river island, connected by three wooden bridges. Kostanjevica is called the Dolenska Venice due to frequent floods. The size of the island is small: about 500 by 200 m. The town obtained its city rights as early as 1252 and is the smallest city in Slovenia by population with 500 inhabitants, having its mayor. In 1234, a Cistercian abbey was founded here by the will of the Carinthian duke Bernhard von Spanheim. We will visit this monastery, which now houses a museum and a unique gallery with original paintings from the 13th-21st centuries, donated by the Carthusian Monastery, Napoleon, and many other artists and sculptors. Mainly: symbolism, expressionism, realism. There are works by the prominent Slovenian painter, graphic artist, photographer, and cinematographer Bozidar Jakac. In addition, a sculpture competition from wood Forma Viva is held in the park around the castle every 2 years, and the winning sculptures are exhibited in the park.
Otocec Castle
Do not miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque surroundings of Otocec Castle - the only castle in Slovenia located on an island. The beautiful park surrounding it likely originated at the turn of the 18th-19th centuries and is home to endemic trees such as black alder, white willow, black poplar, and exotic tree species.
The castle is mentioned in written sources from 1252, and over the centuries its owners, along with its appearance, have changed. Currently, the castle, which has been restored to its original state, operates as the "Otocec Castle" hotel.
Pleterje Charterhouse Monastery
In 1403, Count Celje Herman II founded the Charterhouse Monastery in Pleterje. Today, approximately 380 Carthusians live in 22 houses around the world, including 17 for men and 5 for women. "Since our order is dedicated solely to contemplation, our duty is strictly to distance ourselves from the world. Therefore, we are free from any pastoral service - whatever need there may be for active apostolate - so that we can fulfill our specific role in the Mystical Body of Christ." (Regulations 3, 9).
Organizational Details
- Transport costs are included in the price.
- I can pick up travelers from Dolenske Toplice, Smarjeske Toplice, Terme Catez, Terme Paradiso, Rimske Toplice, Terme Lasko, Terme Olimia, as well as from the cities of Novo Mesto, Lasko, Brezice, Krsko.
