Ivanić-Grad, City: Facts, What to Eat, What To Buy, Tourist Attraction & Things to Do
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 29 May, 2023
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Welcome to Ivanić-Grad, the city in the northern part of Croatia, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions. This city is full of surprises, from interesting facts about its history to special recipes from its local cuisine. There is something for every tourist here.
In this blog, we will tell you all about Ivanić-Grad, including its unique facts, what to eat, what to buy, tourist attractions, and things to do. With this information you can be sure to make the most of your visit to this wonderful city. So get ready for some interesting insights in Ivanić-Grad!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Ivanić-Grad, City
1. Ivanić-Grad is the largest city in northern Croatia.
2. The city is home to a 17th century fortress known as the Međugrad Fortress.
3. It is believed that the city was originally founded in the 12th century by Croats.
4. The city was once the capital of the medieval Croatian Kingdom of Slavonia.
5. Ivanić-Grad is the birthplace of influential Croatian writer Ivan Gundulić.
6. Ivanić-Grad has the oldest high school in Croatia, founded in 1781.
7. Ivanić-Grad is home to four museums, a couple of galleries, and various historic churches and monuments.
8. The city is known to be one of the sunniest cities in Croatia, receiving more than 2,800 hours of sun per year.
9. The city is surrounded by a picturesque landscape filled with forests, rivers, and small hills.
10. The city is a growing tourist destination, being only 35 minutes away by train from the Croatian capital Zagreb.
What To Eat In Ivanić-Grad City?
Ivanić-Grad is a town located in central Croatia, known for its picturesque landscapes and agricultural heritage. The region offers a variety of delicious dishes that showcase local flavors and traditional Croatian cuisine. When visiting Ivanić-Grad, here are some foods to try:
- Ivanić-Grad Kajzerica: Kajzerica is a traditional Croatian pastry that originated in Ivanić-Grad. It is a sweet, crescent-shaped bread roll made with yeast dough and often sprinkled with sugar. Kajzerica is perfect for breakfast or as a snack with coffee.
- Ivanić Sausage (Ivanićka Kobasica): Ivanić-Grad is known for its high-quality sausages. Ivanić sausage is made from a mixture of pork and beef, seasoned with garlic, salt, and black pepper. It is typically smoked and air-dried, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic sausage. Enjoy it grilled or cooked and served with mustard and sauerkraut.
- Traditional Poultry Dishes: The region around Ivanić-Grad is famous for its poultry farming. Look for traditional dishes such as roasted chicken (pečena piletina) or turkey (pureći) prepared with local herbs and spices. These dishes are often served with a side of potatoes or vegetables.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil (Bundevino ulje): Ivanić-Grad is known for its pumpkin seed oil, which is made from roasted and pressed pumpkin seeds. This dark green oil has a nutty flavor and is used as a dressing for salads, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or as a finishing touch to various dishes.
- Strudel: Strudel is a popular dessert in Croatia, and Ivanić-Grad is no exception. Try apple strudel (jabučni zavitek) or poppy seed strudel (makovnjača), which are commonly enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after a meal.
- Local Dairy Products: Ivanić-Grad and its surrounding areas have a rich dairy tradition. Look for local dairy products such as fresh cheese, sour cream, and curd (skuta). These products are often used in traditional Croatian dishes or enjoyed on their own.
What To Buy In Ivanić-Grad City For Souvenirs
When visiting Ivanić-Grad City in Croatia, you can find several local products and souvenirs that are representative of the region. Here are some items you might consider purchasing:
- Škrlet Wine: Ivanić-Grad is located in the wine-growing region of Croatia, and one of the local specialties is Škrlet wine. This light and refreshing white wine are made from the indigenous Škrlet grape variety. It’s an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts or as a gift for wine lovers.
- Pisanica Eggs: Pisanica eggs are intricately decorated Easter eggs that are traditionally made in the area. They are hand-painted with vibrant colors and intricate designs, often incorporating traditional motifs and symbols. These beautifully crafted eggs make for unique and meaningful souvenirs.
- Honey Products: Croatia is known for its high-quality honey, and Ivanić-Grad is no exception. You can find a variety of honey products, including different types of honey (such as acacia, chestnut, or lavender honey), honey spreads, and beeswax candles. These make for delicious and natural souvenirs.
- Paprika Products: Ivanić-Grad is famous for its paprika production. You can find various paprika products, such as ground paprika, paprika flakes, and paprika-infused oils. These products add flavor and spice to dishes and are a great way to bring a taste of the region back home.
- Local Handicrafts: Explore the local shops and markets in Ivanić-Grad for handcrafted items made by local artisans. This can include pottery, ceramics, woven textiles, wooden crafts, and traditional embroidery. These unique and authentic pieces showcase the craftsmanship and cultural heritage of the region.
- Lavender Products: Croatia is known for its lavender fields, and you can find lavender-based products in Ivanić-Grad. Look for lavender essential oils, soaps, lotions, sachets, or dried lavender bundles. Lavender products make for fragrant and relaxing souvenirs.
- Traditional Food Products: Ivanić-Grad and its surrounding area are also known for their agricultural products. Consider buying local cheeses, jams, fruit preserves, or traditional Croatian pastries like štrukli, a rolled pastry filled with cottage cheese or other savory fillings.
Remember to check the local shops, markets, and souvenir stores in Ivanić-Grad to find the best selection of these items. Supporting local businesses and artisans is a great way to bring home meaningful souvenirs while experiencing the unique flavors and traditions of the region.
Best Tourist Attraction In Ivanić-Grad City
Ivanić-Grad is a small Croatian city located in Central Croatia. The city is known for its touristic attractions which include the following:
1. Ivanić-Grad Castle: This is the main attraction of the city. It was built in 16th century and is the biggest fortification in Croatia. It has become a museum since 2008.
2. Croatian National Theatre: This is an open-air theatre that is located in the center of Ivanić-Grad. It’s a great place to enjoy amazing performances in summer time.
3. Fire Protection Museum: This is a unique museum located in the city. It is the only open-air fire museum in Croatia.
4. Monastery of Virgin Mary: This is a beautiful Baroque-style monastery located in the city. It was built in 1717 and it houses an interesting collection of religious artifacts.
5. Ivanić-Grad Ethno Museum: This is one of the most interesting attractions of Ivanić-Grad City. It features the traditional culture and lifestyle of the region.
6. Rivićka Tower: This is an impressive defensive tower located in the city. It was built in 12th century and is a great example of medieval architecture.
What To Do In Ivanić-Grad City
1. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures in Krapje and Lake Lonjsko Polje: Krapje is about 10 kilometers southeast of Ivanić-Grad, and the nearby lake is part of the Krapje nature reserve. Enjoy fishing, bird watching, picknicking, and a variety of nature trails to explore!
2. Taste Authentic Croatian Cuisine at Zlatna Kuna: Zlatna Kuna is a restaurant located in the center of Ivanić-Grad, producing local Croatian meals from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to try the traditional dishes such as stuffed cabbage rolls, purica (stuffed turkey), and kulen (smoked sausage).
3. Visit the Museum of the People’s Revolution of 1848: The museum gives a detailed account of the events of the revolutionary period in Croatia and is of great interest for those who want to learn more about Croatia’s past.
4. Explore the Archaeological Site in Krupa: Located roughly 25 kilometers south of Ivanić-Grad, the Krupa archaeological site features several Bronze Age sites and ruins from the Iron Age.
5. Go Shopping at the International Market: The International Market is a great place to go bargain shopping! Located on the city’s main street, 2. Maja, you can find everything from fresh food and produce to clothing, jewelry, and shoes.
History & Information About Ivanić-Grad City
Ivanić-Grad is a town and municipality located in the eastern part of the Zagreb County in Croatia. It is situated in the valley of the Ilova river on the western slopes of the Samoborsko gorje hills, where it is crossed by the E70/A3 motorway and two railways lines.
Ivanić-Grad was first mentioned in 1334 under the name of Ivanych (Ivan’s estate), and it belonged to the noble families of Dalj, Bribir and Zrinski. Later, the town was owned by the Odescalchi family who sold it to its current owners in the 1950s.
The town is known for its rich cultural heritage and its traditional architecture. The town itself holds monuments of historical value, such as the 16th-century Church of St. Clare, the 15th-century Church of St. John the Baptist and a number of old buildings dating back to the 19th and 20th centures.
In the town, one will be able to experience many different cultural events such as The Ivanić-Grad Summer Nights, which are held every summer in from the 19th to the 21st of June. During this event, local artists, participants of art colonies, musicians and artisans present their crafts, combining music, theatre, performances and other cultural performances.
Moreover, there are several well-known events such as the Križnički festival (Cross festival), which is held on every fourth Sunday of June each year. It celebrates the unique Croation culture and includes traditional dances, music and food.
Also, Ivanić-Grad hosts a local celebration of the pagan holiday of Ivanje (Midsummers Day), where young people experience a Croation version of St. John’s Night. The celebration includes dancing, singing, folklore music and theatre.
Ivanić-Grad is well known for its fertile land and produces white wines, traditional breads, cured meats, fruits and vegetables. The municipality has a very rich tradition in viticulture and hosts the annual Ivanić-Grad Wine Festival, which is a celebration of local viticulture and winemaking.
The town is also popular among history buffs as there are many monuments dedicated to eminent figures from Croatian history located within it. Notable figures are Ivan Zakmardić, who was the Grand Master of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Nikola Tomašič, the bishop of Varazdin, Stjepan Gradalski, a famous politician and Stjepan Razumović, a literary figure.
What is Ivanić-Grad City is Known For
Ivanić-Grad is a city in Croatia known for its historical sites and cultural attractions. It is located on the Sava River and is known for its Roman ruins and Turkish relics. Other attractions include its baroque-style buildings, traditional music festivals, and beautiful hiking trails. It is also a popular destination for canoeing and camping.