Velika Gorica, City: Facts, What to Eat, What To Buy, Tourist Attraction & Things to Do
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 29 May, 2023
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Velika Gorica is a small yet delightful city located in Central Croatia and is a complete package for travelers who are looking for great attractions and cultural activities as well as great food and shopping. From ancient churches and beautiful parks to delicious cuisine and unique gifts to buy, Velika Gorica has something to offer for everyone.
In this post, we’ll discover the city’s unique facts, best places to eat, what to buy, and of course, the top tourist attractions and things to do while in Velika Gorica. So, let’s follow the path to the amazing city of Velika Gorica and explore all that it has to offer.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Velika Gorica, City
1. Velika Gorica is a city in Zagreb County, Croatia. With a population of over 51,000, it is the fourth-largest city in the county.
2. Velika Gorica was first mentioned in 1244 and is believed to be one of the oldest cities in Croatia.
3. Velika Gorica is home to several churches that are over 600 years old, with the oldest being the Church of Saints Peter and Paul which dates back to 1468.
4. In the Middle Ages, Velika Gorica served as a fortress hideout for Croatian Kings during their struggles with the Ottoman Empire and was later used as a border crossing for trade routes between Hungary and Austria-Hungary.
5. Velika Gorica is well known for its apple orchards and production of local brandy.
6. Velika Gorica is an important transportation hub as it is home to Zagreb Airport, the busiest international airport in Croatia.
7. Velika Gorica is home to several cultural monuments such as the “Slavonski Brod” memorial, dedicated to the battle of Vukovar in 1991.
8. Velika Gorica also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Velika Gorica Days, an annual celebration of the city’s culture and history.
What To Eat In Velika Gorica City
When in Velika Gorica City, there is plenty of local cuisine to sample. Popular dishes include cevapi, a type of grilled minced meat, tattering bread, a traditional flatbread, sausages, palačinke (crepes), and fish stew. For dessert, try malina (a raspberry-based custard tart), strukli (a sweet cheese-filled pastry), or traditional rum cake. Traditional Croatian wines and beers can also be found in the city.
What To Buy In Velika Gorica City For Souvenirs
Velika Gorica, located near Zagreb in Croatia, offers several souvenirs that showcase the local culture and traditions. Here are some items you can consider purchasing as souvenirs in Velika Gorica:
- Licitar Hearts: Licitar hearts are traditional Croatian gingerbread cookies that are shaped like hearts and decorated with vibrant colors. They are often given as gifts or used as ornaments. Velika Gorica is known for its licitar heart production, and you can find a variety of sizes and designs to choose from.
- Traditional Crafts: Look for handmade crafts that represent the local culture. Wooden carvings, embroidered textiles, ceramics, and woven items like baskets or traditional lacework are commonly found in Velika Gorica. These items make unique and authentic souvenirs.
- Local Food Products: Velika Gorica and its surrounding region produce delicious food products that can make great souvenirs. Look for locally made honey, jams, liqueurs, and wines, which represent the flavors of the area. Truffle products, such as truffle oil or truffle-infused items, are also popular in this region.
- Croatian Folk Music and Books: If you’re interested in Croatian folk music or literature, consider purchasing CDs or books featuring local artists or authors. This allows you to take a piece of Croatian culture and creativity home with you.
- Traditional Clothing and Accessories: Look for traditional Croatian clothing items or accessories, such as embroidered shirts (rukavice) or patterned scarves (šalovi). These items are not only stylish but also represent the cultural heritage of the region.
- Lavender Products: Croatia is known for its lavender production, and you can find various lavender products in Velika Gorica. Lavender soaps, oils, sachets, or dried lavender bunches are aromatic and popular choices as souvenirs.
- Local Artwork: Visit local art galleries or craft markets in Velika Gorica to discover unique artworks created by local artists. Paintings, sculptures, or photographs inspired by the city and its surroundings can be a meaningful souvenir.
Remember to explore local shops, markets, and souvenir stalls to find the best options that capture the essence of Velika Gorica and its cultural heritage.
Best Tourist Attraction In Velika Gorica City
Velika Gorica is a town located just a short drive away from the Croatian capital of Zagreb, offering plenty of interesting sights and activities to visitors.
The city’s most popular tourist attractions include its historic downtown area, Lake Dubrava, and numerous parks, monuments, and gardens.
Velika Gorica is also home to some unique cultural attractions such as the Velika Gorica Open Air Museum, the Paromlin Village Museum, and the Mitnica Church. Visitors can also take in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities such as rafting, mountain biking, and hiking.
What To Do In Velika Gorica City
Velika Gorica is a modern Croatian city known for its rich industrial and cultural heritage. The city is located on the Sava River, just outside the capital city of Zagreb and is one of the oldest settlements in the country. Here are some of the best things to do in Velika Gorica:
1. Visit Velika Gorica Castle – The historic 12th-century Velika Gorica Castle has been restored to its former glory and now houses a museum about the city’s past. You can explore its grounds and learn about its mysterious past from the informative displays.
2. Explore the Old Town – The Old Town of Velika Gorica is full of historic buildings and cobbled streets which are well worth exploring. Stop in one of the cafes and pubs to enjoy some delicious Croatian cuisine.
3. Stroll Through The Park – Velika Gorica has a large selection of parks and gardens to choose from, so why not take a peaceful stroll through one on your visit. The park was built in the 19th century and is now home to a large selection of plants and trees.
4. Check Out The Monuments – Velika Gorica is home to several important monuments and sculptures that commemorate important historical duties and events. Take some time to explore these monuments and appreciate their symbolism and unique beauty.
5. Enjoy A Concert At St. Martin’s Church – St. Martin’s Church is a newly restored Romanesque-style church that often hosts concerts by the local philharmonic. Head inside to see the impressive baroque interiors and be amazed by the acoustics.
History & Information About Velika Gorica City
Velika Gorica is a city located in central Croatia, near Zagreb. It has a population of 46,000 people and is the largest city in Zagreb County. It is historically one of the most important cities in the Zagreb region.
Velika Gorica dates back to the 13th century, when it was first mentioned in documents from the time. A small hamlet was first established here and it was one of the many settlements of the wider Zagreb area. In the 16th century, the area was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and it remained under Ottoman rule until 1878, when it became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Croatia.
Velika Gorica was officially recognized as a city in 1833 by Austrian Emperor Francis I. In the 20th century, the city started developing rapidly, with factories and businesses being built in the area. During the war in Yugoslavia in the 1990s, it suffered considerable damage and many of its citizens became refugees.
Today, Velika Gorica is a thriving city and one of the main economic hubs in the region. It has a mix of culture, art, architecture, and modern industries and it is considered a safe city to visit. There are many historical monuments scattered around the city, such as the Cathedral of Saint Bratimir from the 12th century, which is one of the most important cultural heritage sites in the region. Velika Gorica is also home to the largest airport in Croatia, the Franjo Tuđman International Airport.
What is Velika Gorica City is Known For
Velika Gorica is known for its rich cultural heritage, situated in the fertile fields of Croatia’s Zagreb County. Its close proximity to the capital, Zagreb, and important attractions like the Tuheljske toplice spa, make it a popular destination. The city is home to several churches such as the Church of St. Martin and the Church of the Assumption of Mary, as well as cultural hubs like the Valpovo Art Gallery.