Stiška Vas can be explored through two very different themes: the history of the Church of the Holy Cross and the official Cycling Route 7, which climbs steeply through the village. This distinction is useful when planning a trip: the church offers a glimpse into local religious and art history, while the route distance and elevation gain define the scope of a cycling tour. In addition, the archaeological traces at Gradišče date back to the 5th millennium BC. Anyone looking for hotels in Stiška Vas can weigh cultural history and cycling as separate priorities.

The Church of the Holy Cross and Local History

Stiška Vas is named after the Holy Cross, not after Stična Monastery. The present-day Church of the Holy Cross was built in 1751 on a nearby hill, after the older church had been demolished. The painting on the main altar is by Jožef Goetzl; the artist who made the altar is unknown. A Pietà is located in a niche on the right side of the church. Another historical connection is its former pilgrimage tradition: during Lent, the church was a much-visited destination.

Gradišče and Archaeological Traces

The settlement of Gradišče near Stiška Vas dates back to the 5th millennium BC and is considered the oldest known settlement in the area of today’s Municipality of Cerklje. Artificial defensive ramparts and steep terrain above the Reka valley protected it. The ramparts were built by people, while the steep terrain formed the natural part of this defence. Compared with the present-day church, built in 1751, Gradišče takes us back to a much earlier era. A hoard of 49 Roman coins was also hidden in a cave below Stiška Vas.

Cycling Route 7 through Stiška Vas

The official Cycling Route 7, “Cerklje–Jezerca–Cerklje,” is 27.2 km long and has an elevation gain of 1,020 metres. It climbs steeply through Stiška Vas and continues towards Ambrož pod Krvavcem. The destination is Planina Jezerca; the return journey follows the same route. The Church of the Holy Cross is one of the sights along the route. This makes it possible to include local history as part of the tour, while the climb and route details define its physical demands. Since the return journey follows the same route, you will ride this section again; take this into account when planning your tour. Before setting off, check the current trail conditions and signage, as both can change.

Accommodation and Further Information

Chalet Vista Krvavec in Stiška Vas offers views of the Ljubljana Valley; how clearly they can be seen depends on the weather.

The Archaeological Exhibition in Cerklje is another cultural activity in its own right. It can be visited by prior arrangement during the official opening hours of the Municipality of Cerklje na Gorenjskem. Be sure to arrange your visit in advance.

Discover more destinations: Preddvor, Žerjavka, Cerklje Na Gorenjskem, Kranj, Šenturška Gora, Naklo, Žabnica, Kokra

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