History between the watercourse and the hills
Rešetari can be understood through several clearly distinct historical periods: the first recorded mention dates to 1407, when the place was listed as Resetarowich villa. An old Catholic church dedicated to Saint John already stood in Rešetari in 1660. The parish church of Christ the King was built in 1968, and the parish was established in 1977. These dates mark different milestones: the early recorded name, an older church presence, and the later construction and establishment.
The landscape also provides its own setting. Rešetari is described as lying along the Rešetarica, between the hills of Versela and Čerkenjac. Historically, four mills were associated with the watercourse, including one above and one below the village. The history of the mills adds the former use of the Rešetarica to the geographical picture.
Protected Sites and Connections to Zapolje
The traditional house in Rešetari is preventively protected as cultural heritage; Puharina is a protected archaeological site. Nearby Zapolje adds another historical connection: its medieval noble estate was first mentioned in 1258. The old church of Saint Nicholas is said to stand on the site of an older Gothic church and was mentioned in 1660. Gradina in Zapolje is identified as possible remains of the noble town of Zapolja.
These examples represent different kinds of historical connections: a protected house, an archaeological site, an estate mentioned early in written records, and the possible identification of a place with a former noble town. The years also serve different purposes: 1258 is the estate’s first recorded mention, while 1660 refers to the church of Saint Nicholas.
Art Colony and Autumn Festival
The cultural events vary in purpose and season. The Petrović Artists’ Colony takes place in the municipal park and held its 28th edition in 2026. The dates vary from one edition to another. Another event is the Kestenijada, a regular autumn festival centred on roasted chestnuts. It includes concerts and a local football match. An art colony and a seasonal festival thus offer distinct event highlights. If a particular date is to determine your stay, check the dates and programme details for the relevant edition.
Literature and Cultural Gatherings
Literary events also take different forms. The long-running poetry gathering Rešetarački susreti pjesnika brings poetry enthusiasts together from Croatia and abroad. Rešetaračko proljeće is a poetry evening organised by KLD Rešetari, with guests and local authors. Rešetarački pleter is another event: a cultural and artistic gathering of Croatian minority associations from across Europe, whose history dates back to 1988.
Another recurring event is the Šokac equestrian event “Kad bećari šorom zapivaju”. The riders parade through the town’s streets; one edition was the fourth. Future editions and dates may vary, so current event details are important if you are travelling for this occasion.
Wine-Growing Connection and Finding Accommodation
Through the producer Vino Ozren Kraljić, Rešetari is connected to the Cernik wine-growing area. If you are planning a visit to the producer, confirm the current arrangements directly, as visiting arrangements may change.
The reason for your trip can guide your choice of when to stay: art, literary and autumn events follow different schedules, while the historical and landscape themes offer a different focus. First check whether a specific event determines your travel dates or whether you would rather plan around history and landscape. This lets you tailor your search for a holiday apartment to your interests without assuming a fixed itinerary.
For the broader travel overview: Općina Rešetari.
