Novska, City: Facts, What to Eat, What To Buy & Tourist Attraction
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 30 May, 2023
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Novska is located in the central part of Croatia, in the Virovitičko-Podravska county. It’s widely known for its unique culture, events, historical monuments, and breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re planning on a sightseeing holiday, a family adventure, or a romantic getaway with your loved one, Novska is rich with attractions and activities to keep you busy.
In this post, we’ll delve into Novska’s history, explore some of its top attractions, and provide information on the best places to eat and shop in this remarkable city. So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Novska, City
Novska is a charming city located in central Croatia. Although it may not be as widely known as some other Croatian cities, Novska has its own unique features and interesting facts. Here are some fascinating facts about Novska:
- Location: Novska is situated in the Sisak-Moslavina County of Croatia, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Zagreb. It is surrounded by beautiful nature, including forests, rivers, and agricultural fields.
- Name Origin: The name “Novska” is derived from the Croatian word “nov” meaning “new.” It is believed that the city was named Novska because it was founded as a new settlement.
- Historical Significance: Novska has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Archaeological findings indicate that the area was inhabited during the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, Novska was ruled by various powers, including the Ottoman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
- Franciscan Monastery: One of the notable landmarks in Novska is the Franciscan Monastery of St. Francis of Assisi. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its beautiful baroque architecture. The monastery also houses a library with a valuable collection of old books.
- Cultural Heritage: Novska has a vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Novska Summer Festival, which features music performances, theater plays, and art exhibitions.
- Industrial Hub: Novska is an important industrial center in the region. It is home to several companies operating in various sectors, including food processing, metalworking, and agriculture. The city’s strategic location and good transportation connections make it an attractive destination for businesses.
- Nature and Recreation: The picturesque surroundings of Novska offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The nearby Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, a protected wetland area, is a popular destination for birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing. The river Sava, which flows near Novska, is ideal for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
- Sports Tradition: Novska has a strong sports tradition. The city is home to several sports clubs and facilities, promoting various sports such as football, handball, basketball, and athletics. The local sports teams often compete in regional and national competitions.
- Winemaking: The Novska region has a long-standing tradition of winemaking. The fertile soil and favorable climate create ideal conditions for grape cultivation. Local wineries produce a variety of high-quality wines, and wine tasting tours are available for visitors interested in experiencing the local flavors.
- Warm Hospitality: Novska is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals take pride in their community and are eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Whether it’s engaging in conversations or trying local cuisine, you’re likely to experience the genuine hospitality of Novska’s residents.
Famous Food To Eat In Novska City
Novska, Croatia is a charming and picturesque city that has plenty to offer for the foodie, who is on the lookout for delicious local dishes. The city and its surrounding area is a culinary paradise, offering a wonderful array of ingredient combination, flavors, and cooking styles. Here are some of the most popular dishes to keep an eye out for when visiting Novska:
1. Strukli: This is a tasty dish that consists of boiled cottage cheese stuffed in soft rolls or blitva leaves. The dish is usually served with some melted butter and sugar, giving it an excellent and unique combination of sweet and savory notes.
2. Sarma: Sarma is a type of cabbage roll that is often filled with ground beef, rice, vegetables, and spices and then stewed in a pot. This dish is a local favorite and can be found in most restaurants in Novska.
3. Knedle: Knedle is a savory dumpling dish that can be made with potatoes or flour, and is filled with cottage cheese, raisins, sugar, and cinnamon. This dish is often served as a side dish, but can also be enjoyed as a main course.
4. Purica ispolovka: This is a common dish in Novska, and consists of sautéed turkey breast and bacon. The ingredients are combined in a pan with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices and sauces, giving it a complex flavor profile.
5. Zlevanka: This is a sweet cake typically served as a dessert or served for an afternoon snack. It’s made with cottage cheese, raisins, and yogurt, and is usually topped with jam or honey.
These are just a few of the popular dishes to try when in Novska city! Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full course meal, Novska has something delicious for everyone.
Best Things To Buy In Novska City For Souvenirs
Novska City is a vibrant and renowned city for its beautiful atmosphere and many unique attractions. And when it comes to souvenirs, there’s no shortage of wonderful mementos to bring home from your trip. From traditional handicrafts to local delicacies, here are some of the best things to buy in Novska City for souvenirs.
1. Handicrafts: Novska is famous for its traditional craftsmen, who make beautiful handcrafted goods from wood, clay and other materials. Whether you’re looking for a unique accessory for yourself or a gift for a loved one, Novska’s diverse selection of traditional crafts is sure to satisfy.
2. Crocheted Hats and Mittens: Novska City is known for its warm-hearted hospitality, and their traditional hand-crocheted hats and mittens are the perfect reminder of this. Check out the local markets to find some truly impressive pieces of crochet work.
3. Ceramics: Novska is also known for its ceramic goods, which range from traditional and ornate designs to more modern pieces. Whether you’re looking for a mug or a dinner plate, Novska’s ceramic shops are sure to provide something for everyone.
4. Local Food: No trip to Novska would be complete without tasting the local cuisine. From the traditional ćevapi to the authentic pastries, there’s plenty of delicious food to sample and take home as a souvenir.
5. Hand-Carved Statues: Pick up a hand-carved statue depicting a local legend or scene for a truly memorable souvenir. The statues are all crafted by local artisans and depict various aspects of Novska’s rich cultural heritage.
These are just some of the best things to buy in Novska City for souvenirs. The city has a wide selection of unique and interesting items to choose from, and no trip would be complete without them. Whatever you decide to buy, these souvenirs are sure to make your time in Novska City memorable.
Best Tourist Attraction In Novska City
Novska is a beautiful and vibrant city located in western Croatia, rich in stunning natural sceneries as well as interesting landmarks and cultural sites. The city has many tourist attractions to offer and here is a list of the best ones.
1. The Church of St. Nicholas – Built in 1720, this gorgeous baroque church is a must-see for all visitors. It features a distinctive bell tower, colorful frescoes, and a grand organ. Its interior is decorated with painted silver and gold, and the ceiling reminds of a starry night.
2. Novska Town Square – This busy square is the center of the city, surrounded by traditional buildings such as restaurants, shops, and City Hall. There’s a lovely little park in the middle, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the bustling atmosphere.
3. The Novska Fortress – The city’s most prominent landmark, the Novska Fortress is a great place to explore and learn about the city’s history. Its fortifications, artillery, and moats are impressive, and the view from the top is simply breathtaking!
4. Old Town – Don’t miss out on Novska’s charming Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner!
5. The Marjanac River – The region is home to some spectacular nature spots, such as the Marjanac River, a picturesque stream that runs through the city. Its banks are lined with inviting pathways and benches, ideal for a romantic picnic.
What To Do In Novska City
1. Visit the Novska Castle – the preeminent tourist attraction in the city, this 16th century castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of interesting architecture to explore.
2. See the historic churches of Novska – there are two very distinctive religious sites in Novska, the Catholic Church of St. Stephen and the Protestant-evangelical church of St. John. Both are open for touring and visitors can explore the unique architecture and historical importance of each.
3. Take in the view from Smiljan Tower – this 35 meter tall tower stands atop the hill overlooking the city and offers amazing panoramic views of the area.
4. Enjoy the local culinary fare – Novska offers a unique fusion of diverse regional cuisines including the famous Croatian štrukli and a variety of stews.
5. Relax in the city parks – Novska has multiple parks and gardens, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll or enjoying a picnic.
6. Shop local at the weekly farmer’s market – every Saturday morning, Novska’s town square transforms into an outdoor market selling an array of local produce, homemade goods, and other items.
7. Take a day trip to the nearby Plitvice Lakes National Park – a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning natural areas in the country, this park is just a short drive away from Novska and features 16 beautiful lakes and countless waterfalls.
History & Information About Novska City
Novska is a municipality in Croatia. It is located in the Sisak-Moslavina County in central Slavonia. It lies about 40 kilometers southwest of Sisak, the county seat. Its total population is about 8,593 people (2011).
Novska was first mentioned in 1228 as part of the county of Modruš. It was a significant trading post and jurisdiction until the 19th century, when it was annexed to the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1854. In 1880, it was granted city status and was officially renamed Novska.
During the early 20th century, Novska saw significant economic development with the completion of two railways, one connecting Novska to Zagreb and the other connecting to Sisak. This economic development was cut short by World War II, after which Novska saw a decline in industry and population.
Since the 1990s, however, Novska has seen a resurgence in industry with the growth of the paper, textile, and food industries. Novska is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with many traditional buildings, such as the Franciscan Monastery and Kalemegdan Castle.
Today Novska is a center of vibrant cultural life in Sisak-Moslavina County, celebrated for its numerous art exhibitions, festivals, and events.
What is Novska City is Known For?
Novska City is known for its agriculture, food industry, and excellent tourist attractions. It is also renowned as the birthplace of Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner Momir Pajić. The old town center is full of culture and traditions, as well as vibrant life and an active nightlife. Additionally, the nearby Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular destination for visitors.