Nova Cerkev: History and Rural Cultural Heritage

Nova Cerkev offers several points of interest in cultural history: the places where Anton Martin Slomšek served, the rural cultural heritage in Polže and the water-powered crafts at Soržev mlin each provide a different focus. Trails and events add opportunities for exercise and planning your schedule. You can shape your stay around historical sites, rural architecture, or specific tours and dates.

Slomšek and Historical Architecture

Blessed Bishop Anton Martin Slomšek served as a chaplain in Nova Cerkev from 1827 to 1829. The fully restored parish barn houses a memorial room dedicated to him; the restoration was completed in 2011. His specific period of service and a memorial site dedicated to him thus offer two distinct historical points of reference.

The Gothic Chapel of St. Michael features reconstructed Baroque architectural paintings from the late 18th century, as well as reconstructed windows in the presbytery and a reconstructed entrance door. Anton Martin Slomšek held a Sunday school for his congregation in the chapel. The presbytery is the altar area of a church; the windows are therefore located in a specific part of the chapel.

The Church of St. Leonard is a former parish church dating from the 13th century. It and the Chapel of St. Michael stand behind a once-mighty, historically significant wall.

Polže and Soržev mlin: Rural Cultural Heritage and Craftsmanship

The hamlet of Polže near Nova Cerkev preserves the appearance of a Slovenian Styrian village from the mid- to late 19th century and comprises five farmsteads. The rural architecture of this cultural hamlet includes a mill, a Venetian sawmill, hayracks, a black kitchen and a granary with a cellar. Polže thus offers a different focus from the chapel and former parish church: here, the emphasis is on rural building styles rather than religious architecture.

Soržev mlin is located on a small island between the Hudinja River and a stream, whose water powers the wheels of the mill and the Venetian sawmill. Visitors can see both facilities in operation. A range of mill products can also be purchased at Soržev mlin.

Trails and Events

The Slomšek Pilgrimage Trail leads from Frankolovo down to Nova Cerkev along field and forest paths. If you include it in your plans, check trail conditions before setting out. A recreational cycling route in Nova Cerkev is rated easy and is intended in particular for young cyclists.

The Slomšek Cultural Days feature a varied programme of events every year in the parish barn. Dates vary from year to year; check the specific event dates before travelling.

On 15 February 2026, Nova Cerkev hosted its 38th traditional carnival parade. More than 53 groups with 1,300 participants took part in the procession.

Discover more destinations: Vojnik, Dobrna, Celje, Štore.

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