On the Iron Paths to Dvor
The former rich ironworking tradition, from the Hallstatt period to the end of the 19th century, is worth exploring through the old drover’s paths. Along the way, we will be revealed an exceptional natural and cultural heritage, and we will be greeted by the still “living” heritage. This pleasant walk is suitable for all generations, and along the way, there are places for refreshment and rest.
Before starting the trail, you can visit the Žužemberk Pavilion in the square in front of the castle. It is the result of cooperation between the locals of the Žužemberk municipality, English architects who won the competition, architecture students, and public workers. The path goes from the square over the bridge by St. Nicholas Church along a pleasant paved local road to Stavča village, where at the end of the village, we turn left onto a gravel road leading to Jame. Here, we descend to the Krka River again and cross the wooden Petrunatov Bridge. Passing by the fish farm, we reach Dvor and the remarkable monument of industrial heritage, the former Auersperg Ironworks area, where we visit the Iron Foundry Museum and Gallery and learn about the more than 3000-year history of iron production and foundry work.
After visiting all the attractions, we head towards the local road for Ajdovec at the end of the village, enjoying the view of the river valley. In Sadinja vas, we turn towards Trebča vas, and passing by St. Achatius, at the end of the village, we reach a gravel road. Here, the centuries-old stone blocks of the former Roman road begin to emerge from the gravel, which are clearly visible at the Naralov Cross (a monument from the second half of the 20th century). 19. The cross was erected by Naralov Jožek in memory of his safe return from the war. The cross is made of three different construction materials: a wooden sign, a cast-iron crucified Jesus, which was made in the Auersperg Ironworks in Dvor.
In Dvor, you can refresh yourself with a snack at Blatnik’s Tavern, where you can first visit the permanent exhibition of paintings from the Dvor Art Colonies, or enjoy homemade bread baked in a brick oven at the Dvor Bakery. After resting, continue the journey to Zafara and the parish church of St. Mohor and Fortunat (a baroque church with two towers on the hill above Žužemberk). From there, head to the NOB monument at Cvibel and, after exploring all the sights of Žužemberk, end the pleasant and tiring hike at a local inn or naturist farm.
Nearby: Soteska Castle and Devil’s Turn.
