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Historic town · Vipava, Goriška
Vipavski Križ
Small walled settlement on top of a hill in the middle of the Vipava Valley, with a castle, two churches and a 17th-century Capuchin monastery with an old library. It was once one of the smallest towns of the Habsburg Empire.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Vipavski Križ
Vipavski Križ occupies a small hill in the middle of the Vipava Valley, in the municipality of Ajdovščina, among vineyards. The place was already inhabited before the Romans. In 1482 the Counts of Gorizia surrounded the settlement with walls to protect it from Ottoman raids, and in 1532 it was granted town rights. For a long time it was mentioned as one of the smallest towns of the Habsburg Empire.
Inside the walls, narrow parallel streets with stone houses link the two churches at the ends of the settlement, among them the parish church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Parts of the castle and defensive towers remain. The Capuchin monastery, founded in 1636, houses an old library with rare books; the preacher Janez Svetokriški, author of sermons important to the history of the Slovene language, lived there. Visits to the library are usually by appointment.
In summer the castle often hosts concerts and wine tastings from the valley, especially of the local zelen grape. In December, usually, the streets, windows and churches display a nativity scene exhibition that attracts visitors from the whole region.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours for the streets, churches and walls; more if visiting the library.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the light falls over the valley. In December, during the nativity scene exhibition, the village becomes busy.
How to get there
By car, about 12 km from Vipava and a few kilometers from Ajdovščina, with parking by the entrance. The settlement is explored on foot.
Tip
To see the Capuchin monastery library, contact the monastery or the valley tourist office in advance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Vipavski Križ
What to see in Vipavski Križ?
The 15th-century walls, the stone streets, the two churches, the remains of the castle and the Capuchin monastery with its old library.
Where is Vipavski Križ located?
On a hill in the middle of the Vipava Valley, in the municipality of Ajdovščina, about 12 km from the town of Vipava.
When is the nativity scene exhibition in Vipavski Križ?
Usually in December, during the Christmas season. Check the dates before you go.