In the monastery garden: meet the artists of Kostanjevica na Krki

KOSTANJEVICA NA KRKI MUSEUM FIELD GUIDE

In the monastery garden: meet the artists of Kostanjevica na Krki

A 2.5-hour visit inside the historic Cistercian monastery to see the Božidar Jakac Gallery, garden sculptures and a hands-on painting session led by a local artist.

In the monastery garden: meet the artists of Kostanjevica na Krki.

Duration
2,5 hours
Location
Kostanjevica na Krki
Operator
Slovenia Historic Towns
Category
Museum
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set on the island town of Kostanjevica na Krki, this short cultural outing centers on a remarkable Cistercian monastery—founded at the beginning of the 13th century—that now houses the Gallery of Božidar Jakac. Within its rooms and gardens you encounter 20th‑century works by noted Slovenian artists and wooden sculptures from the Forma viva international sculpture symposia, then finish with a guided painting session where a local painter encourages participants to try drawing.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE PLACE

The Cistercian monastery and Božidar Jakac Gallery

The monastery, founded at the beginning of the 13th century, has been home to works of art since the 20th century and hosts the Gallery of Božidar Jakac, displaying notable Slovenian art inside a historic setting.

THE SCULPTURES

Forma viva wooden sculptures in the gardens

In the monastery gardens you can see wooden sculptures created for the international Forma viva sculpture symposia, a distinct outdoor complement to the indoor gallery.

THE WORKSHOP

Guided painting session with a local artist

After viewing the gallery's works, the program includes time with a painter who encourages participants to pick up a pencil and try drawing, blending appreciation with hands‑on creativity.

What the day feels like

What the experience feels like

This is an intimate, indoor-outdoor art visit: a slow walk through a historic monastery and a compact gallery collection, pauses in a sculpture-filled garden, then a focused, guided painting session that shifts the day from observation to doing.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this experience suits best.

1
Families with childrenSuitable for family groups: the program is labeled for all ages and combines visual interest in the gallery and gardens with a child-friendly, guided drawing activity.
2
Art loversIdeal for those interested in 20th‑century Slovenian art and public sculpture—offers direct access to the Božidar Jakac Gallery and Forma viva works.
3
Beginners and casual creativesA good match for novices: the session is led by a painter who encourages participants to try drawing, making it approachable for those without prior experience.
4
Sightseeing daytrippersCompact and timed at 2.5 hours, the visit fits into a half‑day schedule for travelers wanting a focused cultural stop in Kostanjevica na Krki.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The experience runs for approximately 2.5 hours.

What to bring

No specific gear requirements are listed in the provided trip information.

Meeting logistics

Meeting point is in Kostanjevica na Krki, Slovenia.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long does the experience last?

The program lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting location is Kostanjevica na Krki, Slovenia.

What will we see during the visit?

You visit the Cistercian monastery housing the Gallery of Božidar Jakac, view wooden sculptures from the Forma viva symposia in the gardens, and take part in a guided painting session.

Is this suitable for children?

The experience is described as being for all ages.

Do I need prior art or painting experience?

The visit includes a session with a painter who encourages participants to try drawing; the information emphasizes encouragement rather than prior skill requirements.

Are the garden sculptures original to the site?

The wooden sculptures in the monastery gardens were created for the Forma viva international sculpture symposia.