Vače brings together a significant Hallstatt history with archaeological and geological themes. In the 6th and 5th centuries BC, Vače was one of Slovenia’s most important Hallstatt centres. When planning your trip, it is useful to distinguish between the different focuses: situlas and prehistoric settlements are central to the Archaeological Trail, while the collections focus on local sights and rocks found in Slovenia. Individual cultural sites add another aspect of cultural heritage.

Archaeology and trails

The Vače Archaeological Trail passes through one of Slovenia’s most important archaeological sites. Information boards along the trail introduce visitors to the world of situlas, prehistoric settlements and archaeological discoveries. The trail can begin or end at the Fossil Sea Coast near the cemetery. The trail is suitable for individual visitors; guided groups can visit by prior arrangement. The GEOSS Circular Trail includes Vače and Klenik and is marked with signs and individual markers. When choosing a route, note that the Archaeological Trail is defined by its archaeological themes and the option of starting or finishing at the Fossil Sea Coast; the GEOSS Circular Trail includes Vače and Klenik.

Collections and geological traces

Dom GEOSS – Muzej Petra Svetika houses a local collection on Vače’s sights, including an archaeological collection. A geological collection in the building presents the most important rocks found in Slovenia.

The Fossil Sea Coast in Vače includes a vertical limestone wall about 3 metres high above the cemetery. At this geological attraction, fossil oyster shells reach up to 10 centimetres. In 1997, a decree was prepared in the Municipality of Litija to explain the geological attraction’s designation as a natural monument. The measurements refer to two different things: about 3 metres refers to the height of the limestone wall, while up to 10 centimetres refers to the fossil oyster shells. This sets a specific geological attraction in Vače apart from a collection of the most important rocks found in Slovenia.

Situla and art in Klenik

Nearby in Klenik stands an enlarged replica of the Vače situla. You can reach the replica via the Avenue of Creativity, which runs through prehistoric terrain. Using wooden statues by various artists, the avenue tells the story of Slovenian culture and way of life.

Church of St Andrew

The Church of St Andrew also adds dated details to Vače’s cultural heritage. Its sacristy contains a bell dating from 1645; there is also a glass Holy Sepulchre dating from 1864. The years 1645 and 1864 mark a significantly later period than the Hallstatt centre of the 6th and 5th centuries BC. To visit the church, ring the bell at Vače 18; it is advisable to confirm the visiting information locally in advance.

Discover more destinations: Slivna, Litija, Šmartno Pri Litiji, Dole Pri Litiji

Go to the main travel overview: Litija.