Mysterious Žiče Carthusian Monastery

To the east of Slovenia, in the vicinity of Slovenske Konjice the former mysterious monastery Žiče Carthusian Monastery invites a visit. Through centuries, Gastuž, the oldest gostilna in Central Europe invited travellers into its safe shelter, and you may have a refreshment there even today. You may have a closer look at one of the oldest pharmacies and visit the herbal garden which still makes its visitors feel mellow with the healing flowers. Let time stop for you.

The Žiče Carthusian Monastery is a unique record of the varied history of Carthusian monks from the beginning of the 12th century. It celebrates its 850 year anniversary this year. It lies far away from the classical tourist routes and in the valley of Janez Krstnik provides for a peaceful escape from civilization and the hustle and bustle of city life.

The monastery collapsed in the 18th century and only the monk`s houses, the dining room and the kitchen and the church were preserved. The preserved manuscripts which are now located outside Slovenian borders speak about the continuous development of the medieval book lasting for several centuries. Today, there are approximately 120 medieval manuscripts and almost 100 fragments. The preserved remains are witnesses of the richness of the library in the Žiče Carthusian Monastery where as many as 200 manuscripts were held.

The Žiče Carthusian Monastery used to have a strong significance to the cultural and economic development of the nearby countries. Wine production is most often mentioned in the records- The sparkling wines of Konjice mature in the arched cellars of the Carthusian monastery. You may taste one of the 60,000 bottles of White and Rose sparkling wine. There is a large herbal garden in front of the estate which contributed to the operation of one of the oldest pharmacies. Do stop in the Viva Sana Shop which continues the tradition of herb production for healing purposes. An important role in the history was also held by Gastuž, the oldest gostilna in Central Europe which provided shelter to travellers banned from entering the Carthusian Monastery as early as in 1467. A renewed building stands here today. You may have a drink in the bar or try a delicious lunch in the restaurant.

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