Sacred buildings of Muta – churches and chapels of the area
Explore the historic churches, chapels, and religious monuments that reflect the spiritual heritage and life of the local community.
ROTUNDA OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
The famous Romanesque rotunda at the confluence of the Bistrica and Drava rivers was consecrated in 1052 by Pope Leo IX. It was built in the early Romanesque period with an original semicircular apse. In the 14th century, the added presbytery was adorned with Gothic frescoes. Part of a Roman tombstone is embedded in the outer wall, proving that it stands on cultural grounds with a history of over a thousand years.
CHURCH OF ST. MARGARET IN UPPER MUTA
The central building of the funnel-shaped market square in Upper Muta is the Gothic parish Church of St. Margaret. It was first mentioned in 1349. The Baroque furnishings date from the 17th century. Several tombstones are embedded in the church’s exterior facade, the oldest of which dates back to 1595.
CHURCH OF ST. PRIMUS ABOVE MUTA
It stands on a beautiful viewpoint below Primož Peak and was first mentioned in 1425. From here, the Drava Valley, Muta, neighboring towns, and the Pohorje hills are clearly visible.
CHURCH OF ST. STEPHEN AT GORTINA
The small church was first mentioned as a chapel in 1724. At that time, it, along with the village of Gortina, belonged to the Kienhof manor. Since its consecration in 1935, it has been used for Mass. It serves as the center of the village of Gortina, which was first mentioned in 1147.
CHURCH OF ST. PETER AT RIBIČJE
The church, built in Romanesque-Gothic style, was first mentioned in 1326. An ancient tombstone is embedded in the church’s threshold.
CHURCH OF ST. SIMON AND JUDE IN PERNICE
It was first mentioned in 1368. In 1494, it was damaged by the Turks, and in 1510 it was rebuilt, acquiring a late Gothic appearance. It is the highest-situated church in the Municipality of Muta.
CHURCH OF ST. BARTHOLOMEW ABOVE MUTA
The church was first mentioned in 1382. The area is known for its giant linden trees, which are among the largest and thickest in Slovenia.
ECOLOGICAL CHAPEL OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI
The Ecological Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi in Bistriški Jarek was built in 1997. It protects and warns residents about the danger posed by the potential collapse of the Golica-Koralpe dam (hydro-accumulation barrier on the Bistrica River) in neighboring Austria.
