Stari Trg pri Ložu: Church, Fountain and Traces of the Past

Stari Trg pri Ložu combines sacred architectural history with unusual technical evidence and archaeological traces. The parish church of St. George has a Romanesque three-nave layout, was remodeled in the Baroque style in the mid-18th century, and was first mentioned in writing in 1221.

Culture

The cultural character of the town includes two masonry fountains from the late 19th century. They feature a rocking mechanism with a counterweight, are the only ones of their kind in Slovenia, and are considered exceptional examples of technical cultural heritage. One of the fountains stands on the main road at the entrance to Stari Trg pri Ložu.

The free-standing bell tower of the parish church of St. George served as a fortress during the Ottoman incursions. The church is also a pilgrimage church. During major renovations around 1761, vaults were installed in the church naves; old frescoes from this phase of the renovations have been preserved and extend across the entire wall of the attic.

When visiting, you can distinguish between the themes: at the church, the architectural form, renovations and religious function are the main focus, while at the fountains, the technical construction and their cultural-historical classification take center stage. Individual details can be considered just as readily as the two main themes can be viewed as different approaches to the history of the town.

History

On Ulaka Hill above Stari Trg pri Ložu, large defensive ramparts have been preserved on the northern and eastern sides. The hill was already inhabited in prehistoric times. Excavations uncovered rows of house remains and a forge, indicating a developed blacksmithing craft.

The archaeological traces continue in the area of Gradišče. The remains there are considered to be a late Roman fortified rural estate or a fortified rural villa with a portico from late antiquity. In Gradišče in Stari Trg, a fortification rampart and the remains of towers at three corners were also excavated.

For reading purposes, the historical themes can be organized according to their form: preserved buildings, technical monuments, and excavated traces of settlements and fortifications form different areas of focus. You can consider these areas separately or give them different weight according to your own interest in sacred architecture, technology and archaeology.

Orientation

The tourist information center is located at Cesta Notranjskega odreda 24 in Stari Trg pri Ložu.

MGC Gaber has a service and charging station for e-bikes; chargers can be borrowed by prior arrangement. In addition to the historical topics, this provides a specific practical detail for preparing for a visit.

When comparing a hotel in Stari Trg pri Ložu, you can check travel dates, room category and cancellation policies side by side. These three details provide a simple basis for comparing different offers and can be considered independently of the town's historical topics.

The wider destination area also includes Kozarišče, Žerovnica, Nova Vas, Grahovo, Runarsko, Gorenje Jezero, Rakek and Dane.

For the overarching travel overview: Cerknica.