Sveta Jelena, lokalitet kraj Čakovca
Sveta Jelena is the ruins of a Pauline monastery with a small chapel still standing in its center. The complex originally consisted of a church with simple stone walls, various outbuildings, and surrounding grounds, though only foundations and this modest chapel remain visible today among overgrown vegetation.
The monastery was founded in 1376 when Croatian nobles donated land for a church originally dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the 16th century it was renamed for Saint Helena, and the Zrinski family built a mausoleum on the grounds in 1559 that served as a burial place for local nobility.
The chapel is named after Saint Helena, mother of the Roman emperor Constantine. Visitors can see how this place remains connected to local religious customs, with people from nearby villages still coming here to light candles and offer prayers.
Visits should be arranged in advance, with organized groups needing at least 48 hours notice. The site is best reached by car since it sits in open countryside where public transportation is limited.
The original church was decorated with frescoes by medieval masters from northern Italy in the 14th century. The complex was closed in 1786 by Emperor Joseph II, after which the buildings served as a military warehouse and private residence before falling into decay.
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