I often get an opportunity to take a walk through this beautiful village, so I decided to share a couple of photographs from my last stroll through Marija Bistrica.
This little village is named after Virgin's Mary apparition on a plum sort called "Bistrica".
Marija Bistrica is one of the most famous Marian shrines in Croatia.
It is Croatia's largest and oldest Catholic pilgrimage site with up to 800000 pilgrims each year coming to pray. It is a place also known for its biggest open church all pilgrims are coming to visit.
On every step of the way you can buy honey treats we call: "medenjaci", or traditional souvenirs.
There are several families who are making their living from producing traditional "licitar" souvenires - (usually in the shape of a heart or a horse).
Here is one huge licitar heart. I could not resist but to share this one, showing my grandparents on their visit.
Alcohol lovers can try out the special beverage called "gvirc", and see Marija Bistrica through the eyes of the locals.
For the younger ones there are all sorts of local hand-made toys to choose from.
The thing that mesmerizes me the most about this place is its tranquility and beauty. Have a peak:
At the very end of this village, you can find a "Sculpture park", filled with wooden sculptures, made by local artists. They are mostly religiously themed.
There is something peaceful and pleasant about this sculpture, I really appreciate.
All photographs by @petraa, shot with Nikon D5600; lens Nikkor,18-55mm,1:3.5-56G; (except the one with the grandparents:)
Thank you for reading this post;
Have a wonderful day!