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Church · Koper, Obalno-kraška
Holy Trinity Church of Hrastovlje
The small fortified church of Hrastovlje, about 20 km from Koper, is surrounded by 16th-century walls and is covered inside with 1490 frescoes, including a Dance of Death.
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 Holy Trinity Church of Hrastovlje
The Church of the Holy Trinity (cerkev sv. Trojice) stands on a hill above the village of Hrastovlje, on the edge of the Karst plateau overlooking the Rižana valley. It is a small church, roughly 12 meters long, enclosed by a defensive wall with two corner towers, built by villagers against Ottoman attacks. This type of fortified enclosure is called a tabor.
Inside, all the walls and vaults are covered with Gothic frescoes painted by the master John of Kastav (Janez iz Kastva), who signed and dated the work in 1490, with Glagolitic inscriptions. The scenes range from the Creation of the World to the Passion of Christ and served as a Bible for the poor for those who could not read.
The best-known fresco is the Dance of Death on the south wall: skeletons lead people of all ranks, from the pope and the king to the beggar and the child, toward an open grave. The frescoes were hidden under layers of plaster until 1949, when they were discovered by the artist Jože Pohlen.
There is an admission fee and the visit usually includes an explanation of the frescoes. Opening hours vary; at certain times you need to arrange the visit in advance.
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
About an hour, including the fresco explanation.
Best time
From spring to autumn, when regular visiting hours are offered. In winter, arrange in advance. The village and the Rižana valley are pleasant for an evening walk.
How to get there
By car, about 20 minutes from Koper via the road toward Ljubljana and then by a signed local road. There are Koper–Divača trains that stop at Hrastovlje, with limited schedules, and the church is near the station, up through the village.
Tip
Ask for the fresco explanation: without it, it’s hard to follow the sequence of scenes. Confirm the opening time before you leave Koper.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Holy Trinity Church of Hrastovlje
What is the Dance of Death of Hrastovlje?
A 1490 fresco in which skeletons lead people of all social classes to a grave, located in the Church of the Holy Trinity.
Who painted the frescoes of Hrastovlje?
The master John of Kastav, who signed and dated the work in 1490.
How to get to Hrastovlje?
By car, about 20 km from Koper. There are also trains stopping in the village, with limited timetables.
Is the church of Hrastovlje always open?
No. Hours vary, and at certain times you must arrange your visit in advance; confirm before going.