Things to do in Karlovac County, Central Croatia: The Best Historic Sites

Dubovac Castle is the oldest Karlovac monument, not just because of its ample history, but also because of the pioneer decision to preserve it in the name of collective memory. To this day the castle on the hill above the Kupa River is the most prominent landmark of the cultural and historical landscape of Karlovac. In the Middle Ages, Dubovac developed as a settlement with a fort at the cross-section of river and road routes, and in an area of dense fortified locations. It was first mentioned in 1339, when it got its first parish priest. Frequently written in Glagolitic script, the testimonies of trade and crafts, legal and school life circumstances of Dubovac burghers-freemen, were most numerous in the several decades preceding 1578, when the Osmanlis devastated its city to the ground. Although not large in area, the Dubovac estate was important economically as a regional market town. Its owners were, among others, important noble families from 1387 to 1810.

The city of Karlovac and its defenders endured fierce attacks in the Homeland War and played a key role in the defence of the Croatian territory, as well as in the creation of the independent Republic of Croatia. Karlovac, a fortress city in the shape of a star, has always been an indispensable part of the European and Croatian history. This unique museum tells the story of the fearlessness of Croatian defenders and the invincibility of the city on four rivers. The permanent interactive museum exhibition containing 350 original artefacts and more than 3 hours of multimedia content through which visitors can discover contemporary Croatian history. The exhibition also presents 23 exhibits featuring large-scale combat technology, with an emphasis on the ones manufactured domestically. The museum also has a Memorial Room of the Fallen Karlovac Defenders from the Homeland War, a multi-purpose hall, library and a souvenir shop.

The castle was built around 1500 above the gorge of the River Dobra – Đula’s Abyss. The founder of the town was Bernardin Frankopan, one of the most powerful noblemen of his time. Today, the castle houses The County Museum. It owns several collections showing exhibits of various kinds: archaeology, ethnology, old armaments, a memorial room for Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic, mountaineering, etc.

Contessa is a family property. Revitalized old curia from 1714 just half an hour from Zagreb. We specialize in programs for children and families, horse shows with costumed riders and music, teambuilding and organization of various celebrations and thematic events. Programs for individual guests and groups. Enyoj our fairytale atmosphere.