Opeka Arboretum, Park architecture monument in Marčan, Croatia
Opeka Arboretum is a botanical garden spread across about 65 hectares of land surrounding a manor house in Marčan. Hundreds of plant species grow here, ranging from local varieties to exotic specimens from distant regions.
Count Marko Bombelles founded this plant collection in 1860, bringing seeds and plants back from his travels around the world. The arboretum continued to grow and develop until 1945, shaping the landscape of the region ever since.
The grounds serve as a teaching space where students work with plants from around the world. Visitors can observe how different species are cultivated and maintained throughout the year.
The arboretum sits about 20 kilometers west of Varaždin and is best explored on foot, as pathways lead through the grounds. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to walk through the different areas at a leisurely pace.
This is the only arboretum on the mainland in Croatia, while the other two are located on islands. The grounds demonstrate how plants have thrived for over 150 years in the specific weather conditions of this region.
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