LENART

The history of Lenart has been shaped to a large extent by the Counts of Herberstein and it is the memory of that noble line that keeps Hrastovec Castle on a hill outside Lenart upright. Hrastovec is one of the most powerful castles in Slovenian Styria. It was first mentioned in 1261. From 1481 until the end of the Second World War it was owned almost continually by the Counts Herberstein. To this very day, the castle is infused with the secret goings-on of witch trials and the legend of Agathe and Friedrich, a pair of unhappy lovers.

 

The municipality of Lenart is known for its numerous lakes. Lake Radehova and Lake Pristava are both especially popular with fishermen. Nature lovers will come into their own at Lake Komarnik where you can see rare species of plants and animals. The lake is of nationwide significance to those interested in the natural world: a biotope and nesting site for many bird species and habitat for rare plant species. There are lots of walking routes around the lake.

 

A place of interest in Lenart that is really worth a visit is St. Leonhard’s Church with its Baroque bell tower that dominates the town. Art lovers will find plenty of examples of Late Gothic architecture in the Windische Bühel and elements from the Baroque period in the interior of churches. The town of Lenart is first mentioned in a document dating from 1196.

 

The hilly, picturesque countryside near Voličina, dotted with chapels, is a real attraction for cyclists and hikers. The Voličina region is famous for its apples; the fruit road cuts through this area. Around Voličina, it is especially picturesque in the autumn when the grapes ripen. If the year is good, there will be wine in abundance. The Church of St. Rupert gives the town its special character.

 

Zavrh is a picturesque settlement situated at 370 m above sea level and a lovely place to take a walk to see the Maister observation tower and views that stretch from the Pannonian plains to the Austrian Alps. In the cultural building there is a memorial room for army general and poet, Rudolf Maister, who stayed in Zavrh on his summer holidays.

 

Sport has long been popular in the municipality of Lenart. There are lots of sports and leisure facilities. Today Lenart as a municipality has unspoiled countryside, picturesque settlements, walking and cycling routes, bridle paths, events, good wine, culinary delicacies and fine gastronomic traditions.

 

Further information:

Turistično informacijskega center Osrednjih Slovenskih goric -TIC

Razvojna agencija Slovenske gorice d.o.o.; Trg osvoboditve 9, 2230 Lenart v

Slovenskih goricah • Tel: 00386 59 128 773, 00386 51 660 865 • Fax: 00386 02 720 73 52

E-mail: rasg.si@gmail.com, info@rasg.si