The First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump was born in Novo Mesto, the seventh largest city in Slovenia and the historic center of Lower Carniola (Dolenjska). However, because the prominent lady grew up in Sevnica, Novo Mesto received less media coverage during the inauguration of Donald Trump.
To celebrate its ties with the POTUS, Sevnica organized free guided tours, an arts and crafts exhibition in the Sevnica Castle, and a festival of grape vine pruning. Novo Mesto remained quiet, far from media scrutiny, enjoying only casual mentions as the birthplace of Melanija Knavs. Granted, back in 1970 when the First Lady was born, Novo Mesto was part of the former Yugoslavia, yet, the city deserves more, especially for its rich history and heritage, but also for natural beauty due to its location on a bend of the Krka River on the most beautiful Slovenian river valley.
Breg (na Bregu) is one of the most picturesque sights of the city. It is a residential complex built on the site of the medieval town. You can still see the old walls as you explore this neighborhood that raises on a slope above the river Krka. Due to the spellbinding integration of architecture and landscape, the area is considered a cultural monument of local importance since 1992.
Berg in Novo Mesto – panoramic image by Andrej Jakobčič (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
The main market is the central part of the old town of Novo Mesto, and it dates from the second half of the 16th century. At that time it was one of the most beautiful in the country, and it is still retaining its old-world appeal. The Town Hall, an architectural landmark designed by Josipa Oliva in 1905, dominates the market and, as you stroll to the upper part of the square, you will notice a marble fountain designed by Slovenian architect Marjan Mušič in 1955. At the bottom of the square, you find the old Kandija bridge over which connects the Old Town with Kandija, a suburb of Novo Mesto. Built in 1898, the 75 m bridge with iron rivets is the oldest structure of its kind in Slovenia.
The Museum of Dolenjska is a must-see if you want to familiarize yourself with the rich history of the area. Although dedicated to the history of Novo Mesto and Dolenjska, it is one of the major and most important museums of its kind in Slovenia. It was established in 1950 and features a rich collection of archaeological finds, a large amount of bronze jewelry, ritual situla vessels (a center of situla art was here in the 5th century BC), costumes, and a series of documents and memorabilia from the World War II.
Museum of Dolenjska is a must-see in Novo MestoClick To TweetGalerija Jakčev is an important museum of art that exhibits works by Božidar Jakac (July 16, 1899 – November 12, 1989). The permanent exhibition boasts 828 works of art including drawings, paintings, prints, sketches, and photos. A separate part of the gallery showcases works of other Slovenian artists.
The Franciscan Monastery of Novo Mesto was built in 1472 next to the church of St. Leonard. After a fire that destroyed it partially in 1664, the monastery was renovated. Today, the monastery hosts the oldest library in the city and is open to the public. You can visit the monastery, attend the mass, and the library. However, you should contact them in advance at knjiznica@nm-kloster.si to book a tour.
Novo Mesto’s Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Nicholas) dominates the city from atop the Kapitelj Hill. It is one of the oldest, most beautiful, and most recognizable sights of Novo Mesto. It is a Gothic landmark from the 15th century, although the original church was built in the early 14th century. The most interesting attraction here is the altar painting “The Vision of Saint Nicholas” (c. 1582) by Tintoretto.
At 428 m above sea level, Trška Góra mounts offer you delightful views and the ideal place for hikes and nature walks. Vast vineyards cover its slopes and cottages here and there confer the scenery postcard appeal.
You can always explore the old town on foot, or see it from a different perspective by booking a raft tour on the Krka on board Rudolf’s raft and the Nika Raft. More information and more sights featured on the official website of Novo Mesto.