The Chapel of St Helena, regional cuisine and folklore showcase different sides of Otrovanec. Its cultural significance is particularly evident in the Baroque altar: its history and the details depicted give it a distinctive character. Other highlights include a preserved building from the time of the Military Frontier, dishes and wines at the “Zlatni klas” restaurant, horse riding and the folklore gatherings held in 2026.

Chapel of St Helena and the Old School

The Chapel of St Helena in Otrovanec was built in the 18th century, around 1769, and features Baroque design. It is well preserved; its fully restored high altar dates from the mid-18th century, probably from 1769. It is considered one of the best-preserved Baroque altars in Podravina and the chapel’s greatest artistic and cultural treasure.

The imagery can also be examined in detail: St Helena wears royal clothing, a cloak and a royal crown. She holds a cross in her right hand and a royal sceptre in her left. In this way, the altar combines its Baroque form with a clearly described depiction of the saint. Those interested in sacred art will find specific details here to focus on.

The old school has also been preserved in Otrovanec as a building dating from the time of the Military Frontier. It is one of only two surviving buildings of this type in the Municipality of Pitomača. This adds another historical dimension to the chapel: alongside the religious heritage stands a preserved building associated with the Military Frontier.

Regional Cuisine, Wine and Horse Riding

The “Zlatni klas” restaurant serves regional specialities and vegetarian dishes. These include warm pogatschen baked in a wood-fired oven, baked pancakes and štrukli. Wines from nearby vineyards and wineries in Bilogora are also available. The dining room houses a collection of restored old objects from rural households—another aspect of a visit to the restaurant, alongside its food and wine. The menu may change; check the current selection before visiting.

The “Zlatni klas” riding club in Otrovanec offers horse riding. If you plan to take part, contact the club in advance to ask about the current arrangements.

Folklore in Otrovanec

The 17th folklore gatherings (“Susreti folklora”) were held in Otrovanec in 2026. They were organised by the KUD “Marijan Pavleković Pajo” from Otrovanec. The gathering brought together numerous cultural associations and people interested in traditional culture. As an event held in 2026, it adds a time-specific perspective on local folklore to the village’s permanent cultural sites.

More to Explore in the Wider Destination of the Municipality of Pitomača

In the wider destination of the Municipality of Pitomača, Križnica is protected as a significant landscape area for its exceptional aesthetic and biological value. The old course of the Drava and its standing waters provide habitats for many fish species. An important feature to consider when planning your journey is the unusual connection: the only land link with the rest of Croatia is an approximately two-metre-wide suspension bridge with a steel structure and a wooden walkway. A cable ferry also crosses the Drava, but it cannot operate when water levels are low or high. If you plan to visit Križnica, check in advance whether the ferry is running.

Also within the Municipality of Pitomača, in Grabrovnica, is the Kuća Petra Preradovića (Petar Preradović House). The house was built in 1775; in 1968, one of the first museums dedicated to a writer was established there. The Interpretation Centre includes a walk-through 3D virtual-reality reconstruction of the poet’s birthplace. Visits are possible Monday to Friday by prior appointment. Visits outside regular opening hours can be arranged with at least 48 hours’ notice.

On Kladarski breg, the TIC Klopotec is home to Croatia’s largest klopotec, a traditional symbol of winemaking in Podravina. Visitors can learn about local cultural heritage, take part in workshops and events, and enjoy panoramic views of the Podravina plains, the slopes of Bilogora and the distant horizons of neighbouring Hungary.

The regional calendar also offers a distinctive culinary highlight: Dani pečenjakov is a summer event in Pitomača. Held in late July or early August, it introduces visitors to pečenjak—roasted corn—prepared in various ways. Its seasonal focus sets it apart from the restaurant menu in Otrovanec.

Discover more destinations: Pitomača

View the wider travel guide: Municipality of Pitomača.