On the northern slopes of the Medvednica park forest lies the Municipality of Gornja Stubica, covering an area of 50 km², stretching along the southern edge of Krapina-Zagorje County.
The first written record of the Parish of St. George in Gornja Stubica dates back to the year 1209. In 1993, the Municipality of Gornja Stubica was established and today it has about 6,000 inhabitants.
The significant and centuries-old Parish Church of St. George, which has been extended over time, now boasts a beautifully arranged environment with over 50 species of ornamental plants (including a sequoia tree or giant redwood) and a Monument to the Mother of the Homeland, carved in white stone.
Right next to the church stands the over 400-year-old Gubec Linden Tree (a protected natural monument). Legends of Matija Gubec and the Peasants’ Revolt of 1573 are tied to this tree. Though time has taken its toll, it stands strong—tough and indestructible, just like the rebels of Stubica.
In the town center, at St. George’s Square, the Chapel of St. John the Baptist (known locally as “St. Ivanuš”), built in Baroque style in the 18th century, has been renovated. Nestled in the greenery of the park nearby, a memorial bust of Rudolf Perešin—born in the village of Jakšinec—was unveiled in 1999. Rudi, a pilot in the Yugoslav Air Force, defected to Austria with his aircraft during the 1991 aggression on Croatia. His words are still remembered: “I am a Croat and I cannot shoot at my own people!”
On the neighboring hill of Samci, surrounded by a well-maintained park, stands the noble Oršić Manor, built in the second half of the 18th century. It houses various exhibitions, the Peasants’ Revolt Museum, a souvenir shop, and displays of handicrafts. The monumental bronze and green stone sculpture of the Peasants’ Revolt and Matija Gubec by Antun Augustinčić dominates the Stubica Valley.
Across the surrounding hills and valleys are about twenty small and larger settlements, some of whose names reflect the historical arrival of the Turks to this region (such as Sekirevo Selo and Karivaroš). You can still find hamlets where people live in old wooden houses. There are also traditional wooden wine cellars (kleti) on the slopes, carefully planted with grapevines.
Within the parish area are several chapels:
- Chapel of St. Matthew in Sveti Matej
- Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Snow in Dubovec (with a valuable Gothic statue of the Madonna from the 15th century, restored and featured in the “Holy Trace” exhibition)
- Chapel of St. Fabian and Sebastian in Slani Potok
- Chapel of the Queen of Peace in Dobri Zdenci
- Chapel of the Holy Apostles in Šagudovec
- Chapel of St. Francis Xavier in the Oršić Manor in Samci, which houses a new permanent exhibition of sacred art from the Croatian Zagorje.
The people of Gornja Stubica are engaged in agriculture and craftsmanship, with some working in factories in nearby towns and cities, including Zagreb. The largest local businesses are the DONA beverage factory and MAVINI-TEKS clothing company.
A rich cultural life is nurtured by the renowned cultural and artistic society “Matija Gubec”, the “Magnificat” church choir, baritone Ivica Kontent, the female vocal group “Fiola”, and the Volunteer Fire Brigade Wind Orchestra, among many other cultural performers. These groups contribute to well-known events like St. George’s Day (Jurjevo), concerts at the parish church, museum, and school. There are numerous exhibitions at the “Lipa” Gallery and art workshops like “Lira.” During the Jurjevo 21 km cross-country race (CRO-CUP), famous Croatian runners enjoy the scenic trails of Gornja Stubica. The annual “Meeting for Rudi” features a spectacular air show, a folklore program, and the national sprint duathlon championship.
In many well-appointed local restaurants, you’ll be offered traditional Zagorje specialties such as turkey with mlinci (flatbread noodles), cornmeal porridge with cracklings, Zagorje cheese strukli, gibanica (layered pastry), homemade rakija, and wine.
In the village of Gusakovec is a rural tourism destination – “Lojzek’s House” (Lojzekova hiža). This wooden, one-story house with a porch and many authentic features is built in the traditional Zagorje style. The Grden family offers 23 beds in 9 rooms, alongside an abundant gastronomic offer of local dishes, homemade spirits, and wines to satisfy even the most demanding guests. The family also produces traditional Zagorje costumes, processes mushrooms from local forests, and provides a warm, musical experience with local performers. “Lojzekova hiža” hosts all kinds of gatherings—parties, weddings, name day and birthday celebrations, and offers unforgettable events for New Year’s Eve, Martinje (St. Martin’s Day), the Zagorje butchering festival, and much more.
Visit us! Welcome!
Institutions and Establishments
Parish of St. George, Gornja Stubica
Matija Gubec Primary School
Museums of Croatian Zagorje – Museum of the Peasants’ Revolts