Gomila is one of the largest prehistoric burial mounds in Central Europe. The mound has a diameter of about 75 metres, and more than eight metres of its height remain. Its prehistoric architecture is also exceptionally well preserved. Gomila is interpreted as the tomb of an unknown prehistoric ruler from the first half of the 6th century BC. The size of the site and this interpretation give it a special archaeological significance.
Gomila: Architecture and finds
Archaeological finds include amber and bone jewellery, as well as decorated metal parts of horse harnesses. More than a dozen gold objects were also found in a monumental royal burial chamber. An important point to bear in mind when planning a visit: Gomila does not yet have established visitor infrastructure. The site can be reached via a local road between Jalžabet and Novakovec. Check local conditions before your visit.
Traces of history across several eras
There are also a variety of historical points of interest beyond prehistory. The Church of St Elizabeth of Hungary in Jalžabet is dated to 1334. The village is also home to the Baroque Somogy-Bedeković Castle and its park. The Platanus acerifolia in Jalžabet is considered one of Croatia’s oldest surviving planted trees. The Blizna archaeological site is near Jakopovec; the Villa Rustica is in Kelemen. Together, these places offer different points of interest for anyone interested in archaeology, religious buildings or Baroque architecture.
On foot or by bicycle
The Family Route leads from the centre of Jalžabet through Novakovec to an artificial island on the Plitvica. It is primarily intended for walking, but is also considered suitable for cycling due to its low difficulty level. The route takes about two and a half hours on foot and approximately one hour by bicycle. In addition, a completed 1.5-kilometre foot and cycle path connects Jalžabet, Imbriovec, Leštakovec and Kelemen. The stated length refers to this connection between four villages; the approximate walking and cycling times apply to the Family Route.
Vineyards and local specialities
The Jalžabet Wine Route runs through the vineyard-covered hills of Topličko gorje. The vineyard hills offer views towards Varaždin. Written records mentioning vineyards in the area date from the 17th and 18th centuries. The wine route also connects local beekeepers. Tastings of local specialities are offered at hospitality venues along the route. If you are planning a tasting, it is best to check in advance what is currently available.
Connections within the municipality
The Zagreb–Varaždin–Goričan motorway runs through the western part of the Municipality of Jalžabet; the Varaždin–Koprivnica railway line passes through the northern part. Local road LC 25088 connects Kelemen with Varaždinske Toplice via Vukovec. These connections cover different areas and may be useful when planning around the respective villages.
Discover more destinations: Kaštelanec, Municipality of Donja Voća, Municipality of Varaždinske Toplice, Municipality of Ivanec, Municipality of Ludbreg, Municipality of Lepoglava, Municipality of Novi Marof, Municipality of Visoko.
For the broader travel overview: Varaždin County.
