Slovenske Konjice: Celebrating 860 Years of Monastic Heritage and Timeless Stories

This charming town, embraced by vineyards and the Dravinja River Valley, invites visitors with its soulful atmosphere and a mosaic of stories that blend nature, culture, and heritage.

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In 2025, Slovenske Konjice proudly celebrates three major anniversaries:

• 860 years since the arrival of the Carthusian monks to Žiče Charterhouse
• 100 years since the passing of Baroness Adelma von Vay, a noted humanitarian, healer, and spiritualist
• 70 years since the first publication of the beloved Slovenian children’s song "Huda mravljica" by local author Branko Rudolf

Žiče Charterhouse: 860 Years of History and Serenity

Žiče Charterhouse (Žička kartuzija) is the first Carthusian monastery in Central Europe and the only one outside France and Italy at the time of its founding in 1165. The monastery quickly became a vital religious, cultural, and economic centre. During the Western Schism in the 14th century, it even served as the seat of the Carthusian Order’s General Prior, placing this Slovenian valley at the crossroads of European religious and political history.

The Carthusian monks were pioneers in viticulture, introducing noble varieties such as Pinot Noir, Blaufränkisch and Chardonnay to the region. Their legacy lives on in the Konjice sparkling wine – aged in the historic Otokar wine cellar and produced from the vineyards of the Golden Hill (Zlati grič).

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Living Heritage: Monastic Cuisine, Ancient Manuscripts and Architecture

Adjacent to the Charterhouse is Gastuž Inn, founded in 1467. Thought to be the oldest continuously operating inn in Slovenia and possibly Central Europe, it continues to serve dishes inspired by monastic cuisine.

The monks of Žiče were also devoted scholars. The monastery once housed a vast library, and many of its medieval manuscripts have survived to this day. A permanent exhibition within the complex offers a glimpse into the daily rhythm of Carthusian life.

The complex includes remnants of monastic buildings, the large cloister with the All Saints Chapel, a defensive tower and preserved architectural details from the monastery church. One of its most remarkable features is the award-winning semi-transparent roof that now covers the ruins of the Church of St. John the Baptist—a fusion of ancient structure and contemporary design.

Visitors can also explore the medieval apothecary, where monks once prepared herbal remedies and tinctures. Today, local teas and herbs are still available for purchase, keeping this ancient healing tradition alive.

Žiče Charterhouse, often described as a place of peace and meditation, attracts around 20,000 visitors annually and regularly hosts concerts, exhibitions and weddings, including a special wine and culinary event will be held at the monastery on 14 June 2025. Kartuzija & vino (Charterhouse & Wine) will bring together fine wines, regional cuisine and cultural performances in an unforgettable setting that bridges centuries of tradition.

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This article is part of an exciting partnership with with the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia, of which Slovenske Konjice is also a member. The partnership aims to bring you captivating stories from the historical towns nestled across Slovenia. As a regular feature of News from Slovenia, delivered to our valued subscribers, readers can expect to discover exciting stories from these timeless cities in the coming months. The contents and photos for this article were provided by the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia and The Slovenjske Konjice Tourism Board.

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