Municipality of Zagorska Sela: Archaeology, Churches and History

A Bronze Age settlement, churches with a long history and a Way of the Cross give the Municipality of Zagorska Sela several distinct points of connection to its cultural history. In Bojačno, the focus is on the archaeological site of Špičak; in Zagorska Sela, St Catherine’s Church offers a link to local architectural history, while a Way of the Cross leads to the Church of St Anne in Sutlanska Poljana. Archaeology, religious buildings and a religious route thus stand side by side as distinct themes. When looking for a hotel, you can consider which of these interests should be the focus of your trip.

Church and Bronze Age site

The Church of St Catherine of Alexandria in Zagorska Sela was built in 1691 on the foundations of an older church. It stands on a hill above the main road leading from Klanjec towards Miljana and Veliki Tabor. Its year of construction, older foundations and elevated position offer insights into both architectural and local history. At the archaeological site of Špičak in Bojačno, a settlement from the Late Bronze Age has been confirmed. The Špičak archaeological area in Bojačno is classified as an individual immovable cultural asset. A 2021 tourist description mentions paths through green hills and natural scenery, along which Špičak can be reached on foot or by bicycle, as well as a viewpoint. The site therefore also offers a connection to the surrounding landscape, alongside its archaeological focus.

Religious routes and historical connections

A Way of the Cross leads from the rectory, built in the 18th century, to the Church of St Anne in Sutlanska Poljana. Here, a named route connects two religious buildings; the focus is therefore not only on individual churches, but also on their connection via the Way of the Cross. This cultural experience differs from the evidence of a Bronze Age settlement at Špičak. Miljana Castle adds to the municipality’s historical themes: it was first mentioned in 1597 as the property of the Rattkay family. This first record of ownership establishes an early connection between the castle and the family.

The Church of St Martin in Bojačno is also associated with a local tradition. A central Martinje celebration for Krapina-Zagorje County was announced there for 9 November 2025. The programme was planned to combine the tradition of baptising must into wine with culture and music. The announcement thus linked a wine tradition with a cultural event programme.

More cultural and culinary themes in Krapinsko-Zagorska

Other places in the wider Krapinsko-Zagorska destination complement the municipality’s themes. The Krapina Neanderthal Museum organises its permanent exhibition into 18 thematic sections. The Staro Selo Kumrovec Open-Air Museum presents the authentic appearance of a Zagorje village from the beginning of the 20th century and includes around 40 restored buildings of traditional architecture. The two museums have different focuses: a thematically structured permanent exhibition and an open-air museum that presents a historical village setting.

The culinary themes also offer different experiences: Štruklijada takes place annually at different locations across Hrvatsko Zagorje. It combines an exhibition with a competition in which food-service professionals compete for the title of best Zagorski štrukli. As the date and venue change, it is advisable to check the current details before travelling. Hiža vinove loze in the centre of Radoboj is an interpretation centre about grapevines, viticulture and related traditions. Regular presentations and tastings are held there for visitors, featuring wines from local winemakers and wine products such as liqueurs.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Miljana, Zagorska Sela, Municipality of Hum na Sutli, Municipality of Đurmanec, Municipality of Desinić, Municipality of Novi Golubovec, Municipality of Bedekovčina, Municipality of Pregrada.

To the overview of the wider destination: Krapinsko-Zagorska.