A distinctive way to explore Pušća is the Staza života–Križni put (Path of Life–Way of the Cross). It runs along Crikveni brijeg on the slope between the parish church of Sv. Juraj and the church of Majka Božja Čiselska. As permanent municipal pilgrimage infrastructure, it connects two sacred buildings at a specific location. At the same time, it draws attention to a municipality whose character is shaped not only by individual buildings but also by its undulating terrain.
Hilly Landscape and the Way of the Cross
Pušća has the dynamic hilly landscape of Marijagoričko pobrđe. Large areas remain largely intact and have aesthetic and natural landscape value. Two distinct aspects therefore coexist: the Way of the Cross runs along a particular slope between the churches, while the landscape reflects the broader character of the area. Those interested in religious cultural landscapes will find a specific point of interest here without losing sight of the natural values.
Churches and Historical Sights
On a hill above the parish church in Donja Pušća stands the chapel of Majka Božja Čiselska, a protected monument of the highest category. The parish church of Sv. Juraj in Donja Pušća was originally Gothic and was later given a Baroque style. Its architectural history thus encompasses two successive stylistic periods. A different scene is offered by the old school building: it stands in the centre of Donja Pušća on the main road, below the hill with the parish church. The statue of St Florian in Pušća, meanwhile, is a late Baroque stone sculpture of artistic and cultural-historical value.
The parish church was damaged in the earthquake of 29 December 2020. The chapel of Majka Božja Čiselska was closed because of the damage while restoration work was underway. Check whether it has since reopened before visiting.
Wine Tradition and Events
As part of the InterWine project, Vinski podrum Pušća (Pušća Wine Cellar) connects cultural heritage with the tradition of grape growing and winemaking. The wine tradition thus stands alongside the area’s sacred and architectural history. If you are planning a visit, check the wine cellar’s current visiting arrangements.
Events also offer insight into local food culture. At Jurjevski fruštik 2024, the gathering continued with the traditional Salamijada and the Festival of Wine and Cheese. This sequence relates to the specific event described; it does not indicate current event dates. Pušća thus offers both enduring cultural points of interest and a glimpse of a dated festival programme.
Discover More in Zagreb County
The wider destination of Zagreb County offers other, distinct experiences. In Ivanić-Grad, Naftalan Special Hospital uses saline thermal water and the medicinal oil Naftalan for health tourism treatments. Their availability is subject to the operator’s conditions. The same town also has three developed cycling routes of varying difficulty: the orange route is easier, while the yellow and blue routes are more challenging. As route conditions may change, check them before setting out. Another option is the Stopama svetog Martina cycling route, which leads from the centre of Dugo Selo to the Martin Breg excursion destination.
Culture and regional cuisine offer different highlights, too. The Museum of Matija Skurjeni in Zaprešić is housed in a former granary and displays works by the naïve painter Matija Skurjeni. The Museum of the Turopolje region in Velika Gorica offers insights into life in Turopolje through its ethnographic, cultural-historical, archaeological and art-historical collections. Traditional Samobor specialities include Muštarda, Bermet and Samoborske kremšnite. Vrbovec, meanwhile, is known for the Kaj su jeli naši stari festival, which features homemade traditional dishes; specific festival dates vary.
Discover more destinations: Pušća, Municipality of Jastrebarsko, Municipality of Velika Gorica, Municipality of Krašić, Municipality of Brdovec, Municipality of Zaprešić, Municipality of Vrbovec, Municipality of Križ.
For the wider travel overview: Zagreb County.
