Let’s Taste the Secrets of Jurklošter’s Carthusian Monks

A Culinary Journey Through Time

The magical valley along the Gračnica stream became home to the Carthusian monastic order more than 800 years ago. Under their auspices, important thinkers of the time worked in the sacred silence of Jurklošter. Together with a local guide we will discover not only their invaluable contribution to the development of medieval culture, but also to the development of delicious culinary delicacies.

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food

Monastic menus were far from boring. They were remarkably diverse and devoted to the tradition: Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food. Fish dishes held an important place in the diet of the Carthusian monks. For the monks of Jurklošter, the nearby Marof pond was the most common source of fish supply and it still teems with aquatic life today. But before we discover it, we will stop by a nearby herbal farm and learn which herbs are indispensable in the preparation of fish dishes. If you are more interested of traditional and modern beekeeping than in herbs, we will take you to a local beekeeper.

Marof Pond – a natural gem in the Kozjansko and Obsotelje Biosphere Area

Upon arriving at Marof Pond, thematic information boards will guide us into the fascinating world of fish. During a walk around the pond, we will listen to the stories of local fishermen. We will conclude our gathering at the Fishermen’s Lodge, where we will taste a delicious smoked carp spread.

Watch a video about the preparation of this dish

The price of the experience includes:

• discovering the treasures of the ancient Carthusian monastery on a guided tour through the former monastic premises, with a special emphasis on the connection between Carthusian spiritual life and the guiding principle: Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food;
• a visit to the herb garden inspired by Carthusian tradition, accompanied by a tasting of herbal tea and herbal biscuits or a visit to a local beekeeping with a tasting of delicacies from the beehive. All food products carry the Okusiti Laško (Taste Laško) quality certificate;
• guided tour around Marof Pond featuring stories of local fishermen and a tasting of a local culinary specialty at the Fishermen’s Lodge.