Novi Golubovec: Chapels and Culture

In Novi Golubovec, folklore, religious architectural history and local memory are among the defining travel themes. In the wider destination of Općina Novi Golubovec, landscape and cycling are additional regional themes.

Folklore and community life

The “Golubovec” Cultural and Arts Association of Novi Golubovec has existed since the 1950s, interrupted by shorter periods of inactivity. It is regarded as a guardian and promoter of the cultural heritage of its surroundings. The association includes folklore and tamburica sections. Its repertoire includes songs and dances from Hrvatsko Zagorje, Slavonia and Baranja, Međimurje, Posavina and Prigorje, as well as from the traditions of the Bunjevac Croats.

The association preserves a traditional collection of folk costumes and presents them at performances. It also takes part in cultural events and folklore showcases in Krapina-Zagorje County, throughout Croatia and abroad. If you would like to include a performance in your trip, check the event dates in advance.

Chapels and historical traces

The historic center of Novi Golubovec is protected as immovable cultural heritage of local significance under the spatial plan. If the current protection status is important for your plans, confirm the details locally if necessary.

The Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Veternica was built in 1744 in the Baroque style; its late Baroque altar dates from 1755. The Veternica complex once had the appearance of a small fortified site with a high wall and tower.

The Chapel of Jesus in Agony is locally known as “Otac Bog.” Inside is an old stone-carved statue of Jesus in Agony. The chapel stands on the highest hill in the parish. When it was blessed in 1847, a procession went there from Veternički dvorac. This single historical event should be distinguished from a present-day or recurring event.

The Chapel of Saint Barbara in Novi Golubovec was built in 1972 and dedicated to the patron saint of miners. Another religious facility is the Veternica Spiritual Center: it offers a chapel, a Calvary for the Stations of the Cross, and space for quiet reflection. Facilities are available there for spiritual retreats, including weekends of fasting, prayer and silence.

Railway station and train connection

Novi Golubovec railway station is designated as a historic building of local significance. The Novi Golubovec–Varaždin railway line connects Krapina-Zagorje and Varaždin counties. For a specific train journey, check the current timetable.

Landscape and cycling in Općina Novi Golubovec

Općina Novi Golubovec lies on the northern edge of Krapina-Zagorje County, directly on the border with Varaždin County. Its territory is predominantly hilly and mountainous: Strahinjščica lies to the northwest, and the Ivanščica mountain range to the northeast. The narrow, steep Očura gorge separates the two ranges. In antiquity, a Roman road passed through the municipality, connecting the Krapina Valley with Ptuj via Radoboj and the Očura Pass.

The “Okolicom Lobora i zapadne Ivanščice” cycling route passes through Gora Veternička. The circular route is 31 km long, has an elevation gain of 390 m and is rated 3 out of 5 for difficulty. It runs through wooded areas; occasional climbs lead to viewpoints. Check the route signage and conditions before setting off.

If you are looking for hotels for a trip to Novi Golubovec, consider the specific location of each option and plan around the places and activities that matter most to you.

For the broader travel overview: Općina Novi Golubovec.