Plizio Visual Lab
Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
monument
The Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery, also known as 'Fons Beatae Mariae', is a former Cistercian abbey located in southeastern Slovenia. Founded in 1234 by Duke Bernard von Spanheim, it quickly rose to prominence as a spiritual and economic powerhouse in the region. The monastery features one of the largest arcaded courtyards in Europe, which attained its current monumental scale during Baroque renovations in the 18th century. Following the dissolution of the order by Emperor Joseph II in 1786, the complex fell into gradual decline but was meticulously restored during the 20th century. Today, it serves as the home of the Božidar Jakac Gallery, one of Slovenia’s most prestigious art museums, focusing on national expressionist works. The surrounding grounds host the 'Forma Viva' sculpture park, established in 1961, where international artists contribute monumental wooden sculptures. The site stands today as a unique intersection of medieval monastic history and contemporary artistic expression.
- Location: Slovenia
- Nearby: Krško (14 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 | -1 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 56 | 68 | 64 | 73 | 100 | 92 | 89 | 94 | 119 | 93 | 92 | 70 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The former Cistercian monastery of Kostanjevica na Krki is a significant architectural monument, partially open for visits. The courtyard and church are usually accessible.
Typical hours
Opening hours are seasonal; in summer the monastery is typically open daily. In winter, only guided tours by appointment are often possible.
Photography
Photography outdoors is always allowed; the Baroque ensemble features splendid subjects. Indoors, photography without flash is permitted unless signs indicate restrictions.
Time needed
A visit takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you join a guided tour. The spacious monastery gardens invite a longer stroll.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Kostanjevica Monastery (Baroque complex) and the Božidar Jakac Gallery. The nearby town of Novo mesto is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The monastery is centrally located in Kostanjevica na Krki, within walking distance from the town center. Parking is available on site; easiest access is by car.
Insider tip
Ask about the possibility to visit the cloister, often not publicly accessible. A morning visit provides calm lighting for photos.
Geography
Facts
- Founded by Duke Bernard von Spanheim in 1234
- Features one of the largest arcaded courtyards in Europe
- Dissolved in 1786 by order of Emperor Joseph II
- Now houses the Božidar Jakac Gallery for Slovenian art
- The 'Forma Viva' sculpture park was established in 1961
- Underwent significant restoration after World War II
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 Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is in the Kostanjevica monastery today?
It houses the Božidar Jakac Gallery, one of the largest art collections in Slovenia.
Can you take photos in the arcaded courtyard?
Yes, the Renaissance arcaded courtyard is a very popular photo subject.
What is Forma Viva?
A sculpture park around the monastery with over 100 wooden works by international artists.
What are the gallery's opening hours?
Usually Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Is the monastery far from the center?
It is located about 1 km outside the town center of Kostanjevica na Krki.
Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery: where is it located?
Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery is located in Slovenia.
Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
The Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery, also known as 'Fons Beatae Mariae', is a former Cistercian abbey located in southeastern Slovenia.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Slovenia →
Nearby cities
Novo Mesto
Novo Mesto is the economic and cultural center of the Dolenjska region.
Velenje
Velenje is located in the Savinja Valley and is one of Slovenia's major industrial centers.
Ptuj
Ptuj is the oldest documented city in Slovenia and boasts a rich Roman past.
Trbovlje
Trbovlje is an industrial city in the Sava Valley known for its long mining tradition.
Kamnik
Kamnik is a historic town at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.
Domžale
Domžale is located north of Ljubljana at the foothills of the Kamnik Alps.
Škofja Loka
Škofja Loka is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia.
Škofja Loka Medieval Town
Škofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia and boasts a history of over a thousand years.
Logatec
Logatec is located on a strategic route between Ljubljana and the Adriatic coast.
Vrhnika
Vrhnika is located at the western edge of the Ljubljana Marshes and is best known as the birthplace of the writer Ivan Cankar.
Kočevje
Kočevje is located in the heart of Slovenia's most extensive forest area.
Slovenj Gradec
Slovenj Gradec is the administrative center of the Slovenian Carinthia region.
Grosuplje
Grosuplje is located in the Lower Carniola region.
Ravne na Koroškem
Ravne na Koroškem is the largest town in the Slovenian Carinthia region and is known for its steel industry.
Krško
Krško is an industrial city in eastern Slovenia on the Sava River.
History & landmarks
BTC City Ljubljana
BTC City is one of the largest business, shopping, and entertainment centers in Europe.
Ljubljana Town Hall
The Town Hall on Town Square in Ljubljana is the seat of the city municipality.
Postojna
Postojna is a strategically important town in the Slovenian Karst region, globally famous as the gateway to one of Europe's largest and m…
Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is a breathtaking 24 km long system of karst passages and chambers, famously explored via a unique underground electric train.
Brezice
Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Krka rivers, Brezice is famous for its grand Renaissance castle and the iconic historic water …
Bela Krajina
A picturesque border region in southeastern Slovenia, known for its white birches, the green Kolpa River, and rich folklore.
Metlika
The historic center of Bela Krajina, famous for its castle, winemaking tradition, and the first Slovenian fire brigade museum.
Kostanjevica na Krki
Slovenia's smallest town, located on an island in the Krka River, known as the 'Slovenian Venice' for its significant art treasures.
