Discover Novaki: Churches, History and Hiking

Novaki offers two distinct points of interest for planning a trip: a long history of churches and local settlement, and a hiking stage that passes through the village. Notable attractions include the Parish Church of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac and the Chapel of St. Andrew. Historical dates provide context for both the religious buildings and local administration; the approximate duration of the hike is also useful for planning outdoor activities. If you are looking for a hotel in Novaki, these cultural and active interests can help shape the theme of your stay.

Parish Church and Stations of the Cross

The Parish Church of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac stands on a prominent ridge in Novaki and defines the surrounding panorama. The parish was established on September 1, 2001. In 2010, the Stations of the Cross by academic sculptor Petar Ujević were installed at the church. Stations of the Cross are individual stations along a religious route depicting the Passion of Christ; in Novaki, the work’s artistic authorship is specifically attributed. The parish’s founding date and the creation of the artwork can therefore be considered as two distinct points of reference in the church’s history.

Chapel of St. Andrew

The Chapel of St. Andrew is mentioned in canonical visitation records as early as 1642. The present-day masonry chapel was built in 1851 and features late Baroque and Neoclassical elements. The dates refer to different things: 1642 is the year of the mention, and 1851 is the year the present-day building was constructed. The grounds and Stations of the Cross were also landscaped during the 2012 restoration. For an understanding of the building’s history, it is therefore important not to confuse the early mention with the construction year of the present-day chapel.

Novaki Through History

Novaki’s administrative and local history can also be placed in a historical context. From the 13th to the 16th century, the settlement belonged to the Susedgrad estate. The seat of the local Sučija was in Novaki; a Sučija was a local administrative district. The two details refer to different levels: the Susedgrad estate represents the broader historical context, while the Sučija refers to the local administrative unit. The settlement’s history thus extends beyond its buildings to include political affiliation and local administration.

Hiking Through Novaki

For hiking enthusiasts, the fifth stage of the Stepinčev Put passes through Novaki. The route runs from Sveti Martin pod Okićem via Sveta Nedelja to Podsused. The entire stage takes about six hours on foot; this is an approximate estimate and may vary depending on conditions. The time refers to the entire route described, not just the section through Novaki. Treat it as a guideline for the full hike and take conditions into account before setting out.

More Activities in Sveta Nedelja

Sveta Nedelja also offers family hikes, cycling, fishing, adrenaline adventures and other outdoor activities. This provides a broader view of leisure activities across Sveta Nedelja as a whole, while the hiking stage mentioned above specifically passes through Novaki. Activities and providers may change. If you are considering a particular activity for your stay, check what is available for your preferred dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Martinski, Ružići, Santalezi, Veli Golji, Rakitje, Veli Turini, Sveta Nedelja, Kerestinec.

Explore the broader travel guide: Općina Sveta Nedelja.