Draganić combines traditional culture with tangible traces of its history. The KUD “Sv. Juraj” Draganić preserves local costumes, songs, dances and customs. The skill of making Draganić-Puranac is also listed in Croatia’s Register of Cultural Goods.
Those who choose Draganić as their destination may want to rent a holiday apartment there.
Culture and History
“Jahanje na Štefanje” is considered a traditional custom of Draganić. The parish church of St. George in Šipak was first recorded in 1334; its bell tower preserves architectural elements of the Late Renaissance.
The “Barica Turčić” Ethnographic Collection preserves household objects, tools, furniture and traditional clothing from the Domladovac cooperative. It also displays the interior of a home from the early 19th century, as well as traditional men’s and women’s clothing from Draganić.
Before the Feast of Saint Nicholas, a procession makes its way from the Chapel of St. Fabian and St. Sebastian to the statue of Saint Nicholas. This is followed by a children’s programme and the distribution of gifts. The statue of Saint Nicholas and the pillar in Lazina are considered two of the few monuments to Saint Nicholas in continental Croatia.
Posjed Contessa is a historic estate in Draganić dating from the time of Austria-Hungary. Organised visits are offered there for schools, families and tourist groups. The programmes include tours of the estate, encounters with horses and ponies, costumes and themed workshops.
Older traces have also been documented: A bronze sword discovered at the Ilijina Glavica archaeological site has been dated to the 9th or 8th century BC. A defensive fortification was built at Gradišće near the parish church.
Trails and Cycling Routes
The historical and educational trail through the Draganić forest presents local historical events as well as the area’s flora and fauna. The 23.2-kilometre circular cycling route 40 connects Draganić with the Draganić forest and a fishpond before returning to Draganić. It starts and ends at the railway station in Draganić.
Piramida is a 220-metre-high hill associated with recreation and viewpoints. Cycling route 43 is named Bregi Draganićki; it is designated as a 12.8-kilometre paved circular route.
Cycling route 45 starts and ends at the cemetery in Draganić, near the parish church of St. George. It is marked and intended for recreational cyclists and less demanding riders. Its surface consists of 2.5 kilometres of asphalt and 4.7 kilometres of gravel. In addition, a 540-metre section runs along state road D1 and requires particular caution.
Nature
The fishponds of Draganić are considered some of Croatia’s most important bird habitats. At the same time, they are an important resting place along the birds’ spring and autumn migration routes.
