Pleterje Charterhouse
Southeast Slovenia
Pleterje Charterhouse, located near Šentjernej in Southeast Slovenia, is the only surviving Carthusian monastery in the country. Founded in 1403 by Count Hermann II of Celje, it stands in a valley at the foot of the Gorjanci Mountains. The monastery features a Gothic church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, which is the sole remnant from the original establishment. After destruction by an Ottoman raid in 1471 and a period of decline, the monastery was transferred to the Jesuits in 1595 and later passed into private hands. The Carthusians regained it in 1899, reconstructing the buildings by 1904. Despite suffering severe damage during World War II, the monastery endures as a spiritual and cultural site. The monks cultivate extensive land producing fruit, honey, wine, and traditional spirits such as pear brandy. Pleterje also houses a notable art collection of 17th and 18th-century European paintings, originally brought by refugee monks, now exhibited in Kostanjevica na Krki. Additionally, the monastery hosts local historical exhibits and an open-air museum showcasing Slovenian peasant architecture. This blend of religious tradition, history, art, and artisanal production makes Pleterje a unique cultural destination.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours and consider visiting during spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and active monastic farming. Purchasing the monastery's artisanal products such as honey, wine, and fruit spirits on site supports the community. Advance booking is recommended for guided tours, especially to explore the church and museum exhibits. Discounts may be available for groups and seniors.
Interesting facts
- •Pleterje Charterhouse is the only extant Carthusian monastery in Slovenia.
- •The Gothic church dedicated to the Holy Trinity is the original building surviving from the first foundation.
- •The monastery holds a significant collection of 17th and 18th-century paintings from Flemish, French, Italian, and German artists.
- •Monks produce traditional Slovenian products including pear brandy, mead, honey, wine, and beeswax candles.
- •The art collection was largely brought by refugee monks from Bosserville Charterhouse in Lorraine in 1904.
History
Pleterje Charterhouse was founded in 1403 by Count Hermann II of Celje and completed by 1407.
It suffered destruction from an Ottoman raid in 1471 but was rebuilt with stronger fortifications.
The monastery declined and was given to the Jesuits in 1595, becoming state property after their suppression in 1772.
It entered private ownership in 1839 until the Carthusians reacquired it in 1899, completing new construction by 1904.
During World War II, Communist Partisans set fire to the monastery in 1943, destroying 17 monastic cells.
Since then, it has remained an active Carthusian monastery.
Place Guide
Gothic Church of the Holy Trinity15th century
This church is the oldest surviving structure from the original Pleterje Charterhouse, showcasing Gothic architectural elements and serving as the spiritual center of the monastery.
Monastic Cells and Buildings1899-1904
Rebuilt after the 1899 Carthusian reacquisition, these buildings accommodate the monks and monastic life, reflecting late 19th-century monastic architecture.
Art Collection Gallery (in Kostanjevica na Krki)17th-18th century
A collection of several dozen paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, attributed to various European artists, loaned for exhibition to preserve the peace of the monastic community.
Open Air Museum of Slovenian Peasant Buildings
Located on monastery lands, this museum displays traditional Slovenian rural architecture, offering insights into local cultural heritage.
Contact
Phone: (07) 308 12 25
