If you're looking to explore the religious side of Zagreb and its surroundings, I definitely recommend a visit to the beautiful shrine of the Mother of God of Bistrica. The shrine is located in a small town of Marija Bistrica in the region of Zagorje, around 40 km north of Zagreb. It makes for a great day trip, and in addition to religious aspects, you can also enjoy the beautiful nature of Zagorje. It is best known for little green hills, lots and lots of vineyards which altogether create an idyllic countryside feel.

Image credit: Srećko Budek

A little bit of history

Marija Bistrica is one of the most famous Marian shrines in Croatia. The history of pilgrimage to this picturesque town goes back to the 15th century. The central reason for the pilgrimage is a black wooden statue of the Mother of God that is said to have miraculous powers and is worshiped. As I said, this tradition is centuries old. The statue was originally kept in a small chapel on a nearby hill called Vinski vrh and was hidden many times throughout the long history of wars and enemies coming through the region. Threatened by mostly Turkish invading armies, locals would hide the statue to save it from destruction. The statue was hidden and forgotten until 1684 when the locals were reminded of its presence by emitting a strange light under the central altar of the church where it was hidden. It was unearthed and placed on the altar, and the site was proclaimed a national place of pilgrimage in 1715. Even Pope John II visited Marija Bistrica in 1998, which gave it a sort of a Vatican stamp of approval.

Image credit: Srećko Budek

Some more information

The pilgrimage season here lasts from the first Sunday after Easter until the end of October. During this time, about 50 pilgrimages take place. The pilgrimage calendar is available on www.svetiste-mbb.hr. If you want to attend a holy mass in Marija Bistrica, they are held from Monday to Friday at 6:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 6 PM. On Saturdays, they are held at 6:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 6 PM, while on Sundays and holidays, the mass is held at 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 4:00 PM.  

Image credit: TZO Marija Bistrica

Local goods

It is also good to mention that you can enjoy many local food specialties and wineries as well as buy locally made souvenirs. The culinary specialties of Marija Bistrica are a real treat and include traditional dishes of the Zagorje region, which I would definitely recommend trying out. Well-positioned hill vineyards bathed in the warmth of the sunshine produce the highest quality grapes and wine, which is recognized in this region and further. At Marija Bistrica, you can taste wines that are protected by geographical origin mark and are all quality wines.

Image credit: TZO Marija Bistrica

Header image credits: Srećko Budek

Author: Darija Ilić