Plizio Visual Lab
Gavrilović Meat Factory
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
factory
Gavrilović is the oldest meat processing company in Croatia, with an impressive history dating back to 1690. Based in Petrinja, the factory is famous for its traditional recipes and high-quality salami products. The company's trademark is the little girl 'Jelica', who features on the packaging of their renowned winter salami. Gavrilović was the first company in the region to preserve and export meat products in cans, earning it early international recognition. Despite suffering severe damage during the Croatian War of Independence and the devastating earthquake of 2020, the company remained resilient and continuously modernized its production lines. Today, Gavrilović combines traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology to meet strict European food safety standards. The brand is an integral part of Croatian identity and a synonym for quality in the deli meat sector.
- Location: Croatia
- Top sights: Hrvatski dom Petrinja · Petrinjsko kupalište
- Nearby: Sisak (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 23 | 17 | 12 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 66 | 73 | 69 | 74 | 100 | 90 | 78 | 84 | 116 | 92 | 94 | 74 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Gavrilović plant in Petrinja is the oldest and most renowned meat processing company in Croatia. This family-rooted enterprise is a cornerstone of the regional economy and national gastronomy.
Visiting
Strict food safety and hygiene regulations mean the actual sausage production floors are usually off-limits to tourists. Visitors can, however, view the factory's exterior and often visit an associated outlet store.
Where to view it
The sprawling industrial complex is best viewed from the adjoining public roads and sidewalks in Petrinja. These spots provide a good sense of the facility's massive scale and continuous logistical operations.
Local products
The famous Gavrilović winter salami and a wide array of other cured meats are widely available in grocery stores across Croatia. Purchasing these directly from local markets features a true taste of the region.
Active season
Meat processing is a year-round operation, with the facility being most active during regular working hours from Monday to Friday. Product distribution peaks heavily just before major national holidays.
Nearby
A trip to the Petrinja area pairs perfectly with an excursion to the historic neighboring city of Sisak. Enjoying the local countryside and perhaps a regional wine tasting complements the cured meat specialties.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1690 in Petrinja, Central Croatia.
- The modern factory was officially established in 1821.
- First producer of Italian-style salami in the region.
- The famous 'Zimska salama' (winter salami) matures for at least 90 days.
- Awarded a gold medal at the Paris World Exhibition in 1889.
- The company is currently managed by the 9th generation of the family.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Gavrilović Meat Factory (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Gavrilović's most famous product?
The Gavrilović Winter Salami (Zimska salama) is one of Croatia's most famous culinary specialties.
Where is the meat factory located?
The factory is based in Petrinja, a town with a long industrial tradition.
How old is the Gavrilović company?
It is one of Croatia's oldest meat processing companies, founded in the late 17th century.
Can you visit the factory?
Factory visits are rarely permitted for hygiene reasons, but there are local brand stores nearby.
What does the Gavrilović logo represent?
The logo features the famous "Gavrilović girl," representing family tradition.
Gavrilović Meat Factory: where is it located?
Gavrilović Meat Factory is located in Croatia.
Gavrilović Meat Factory: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hrvatski dom Petrinja, Petrinjsko kupalište.
Gavrilović Meat Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gavrilović Meat Factory: why is it worth visiting?
Gavrilović is the oldest meat processing company in Croatia, with an impressive history dating back to 1690.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Croatia →
Nearby cities
Karlovac
Karlovac is known as the city of four rivers, located at the confluence of the Korana, Kupa, Mrežnica, and Dobra.
Velika Gorica
Velika Gorica is located south of Zagreb and is the largest city in Zagreb County.
Sisak
Sisak is located at the confluence of the Kupa, Sava, and Odra rivers and has a long history dating back to Roman times.
Bjelovar
Bjelovar is a planned city in central Croatia, founded in the 18th century as a military base.
Koprivnica
Koprivnica is located in northwestern Croatia and is known as a major center for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Zaprešić
Zapresic is located northwest of Zagreb and is a modern city with a rich cultural heritage.
Čakovec
Čakovec is the center of the Međimurje region in the extreme north of Croatia.
Virovitica
Virovitica is located at the foot of Mount Bilogora near the Hungarian border.
Petrinja
Petrinja is located at the confluence of the Petrinjčica and Kupa rivers in the Banovina region.
Kutina
Kutina is located at the edge of the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park and is a significant industrial center.
Dugo Selo
Dugo Selo is located east of Zagreb at the foot of Martin Breg hill.
Križevci
Krizevci is one of the oldest cities in central Croatia, known as the city of eight church towers.
Ivanić-Grad
Ivanic-Grad is located in Zagreb County on the Lonja River.
Daruvar
Daruvar is a spa town in western Slavonia, known for its thermal springs and winemaking tradition.
Ogulin
Ogulin is located in the heart of Croatia at the foot of Mount Klek.
