Vinica Pri Šmarjeti can be explored through a wide range of themes: the Church of St Martin stands outside the village on a gentle rise among fields and meadows. Its architectural history, an Iron Age burial mound field, offerings at a tourist farm and a challenging cycling route appeal to different interests. When choosing your stay, consider whether architecture, archaeology, farm visits or a sporting stage will be the deciding factor for you.

Church of St Martin: architectural history and dating

The Church of St Martin is probably of medieval origin and was later extensively remodelled in the Baroque style. The year 1742 appears on the wall of the triumphal arch. It probably indicates the period of the Baroque remodelling or another major renovation. Thus, 1742 is evidence of a later building phase, but not a confirmed year of foundation. The distinction matters when placing the church in context: its presumed medieval origin describes its early architectural history, while the Baroque remodelling refers to a later, extensive transformation.

Gabrina: an Early Iron Age burial mound field

Gabrina refers to an Early Iron Age burial mound field in which more than 20 burial mounds have been identified. It is one of the larger and better-preserved Iron Age burial mound fields in Slovenia. Compared with the church’s medieval origins and later Baroque remodelling, Gabrina takes you back to a much earlier period. The number of identified mounds gives a concrete indication of its size; the description as large and well preserved is an additional relative assessment in the Slovenian context. The historical themes are therefore clearly distinct: architectural development on the one hand, and the archaeological history of burial on the other.

Farm visits at the Škrbina tourist farm

The Škrbina tourist farm in Vinica Pri Šmarjeti offers farm tours and catering for groups. These are two distinct services: the tour is of the farm, while the catering is intended for groups. Arrangements in advance may be required for either service. Contact Škrbina if you are planning a farm visit or group catering.

A restored house at Kmetija Zalokar

An old house on the Kmetija Zalokar estate in Vinica Pri Šmarjeti has been restored for tourism. If you would like to include the house in your plans, check current access arrangements before visiting.

Cycling the Princ Vinji vrh route

The Princ Vinji vrh cycling route is 22 km long and challenging. It passes through the centre of Vinica Pri Šmarjeti and then heads towards the church there. The distance and difficulty give you two different points to consider when choosing a route: its length and the level of challenge. Check current route conditions before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Novo Mesto, Brezovica, Šentjernej, Mali Ban, Otočec, Straža, Mirna Peč, Dolenjske Toplice

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