2 Best Sights in Marija Bistrice, Zagreb and Environs

Croatia's preeminent religious pilgrimage site is home to the Blessed Virgin of Bistrica, a black, wooden, 15th-century Gothic statue of the Holy Mother associated with miraculous powers (per legend, having survived the Turkish invasion and a subsequent fire) and set in the main altar. The church, which was proclaimed a Croatian shrine by the nation's parliament in 1715, was rebuilt in the neo-Renaissance style in the late 19th century; the shrine complex adjacent to the church was enlarged in time for a 1998 visit by Pope John Paul II. Behind the church is a huge amphitheater built for the pope's visit, and from there, you can climb up Kalvarija (Calvary Hill) to the Stations of the Cross, ornamented with sculptures by Croatian artists.

Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims by exploring Marija Bistrica's pathways, both in and outside of town. Marija Bistrica's surroundings (like much of Zagorje) are covered with beautiful hiking trails. Around the village, you'll find a number of interesting sights as you stroll. Check out more than 100 works at the grassroots-led sculpture park located close to Marija Bistrica's main square, visit the Hudek Gallery with art by academic sculptor Pavao Hudek, and see an exhibition on UNESCO-protected licitarstvo, the Croatian art of decorating gingerbread biscuits. If you see a souvenir stand, a licitarsko srce (Licitar heart) makes a great decoration or Christmas tree ornament, and there's no better place to purchase one than in the region where the craft developed.