GREAT THINGS
come to those who subscribe
Find out the latest information, interesting articles and much more…
Menu
The captivating and mysterious town of Ogulin holds a special allure for adventurous souls in search of extraordinary experiences. As you wander through its cobblestone streets and lush surroundings, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and curiosity.
From ancient castles and majestic caves to mystical legends and captivating traditions, Ogulin invites you on a journey to explore its rich heritage and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this hidden gem. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or seeker of mythical tales, Ogulin offers a captivating experience that will leave you enchanted and longing for more. Join us as we delve into the captivating wonders of Ogulin, where the past meets the present in a harmonious tapestry of culture and natural beauty.
From the moment you set foot in Ogulin, you are transported to a world where folklore intertwines with everyday life, captivating your senses and igniting your imagination. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll encounter stories passed down through generations, each corner whispering secrets of dragons, fairies, and otherworldly beings that have long captured the hearts of the locals.
With every step, you’ll uncover the essence of Ogulin’s folklore, immersing yourself in a realm where reality and fantasy merge. Be prepared to embark on a journey through time, where the spirit of folklore is alive and vibrant, ready to enchant and inspire all who seek its magic. Ogulin awaits, inviting you to uncover its rich tapestry of folklore and create your own chapter in its captivating story.
Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable Sabina Gvozdić, a name that resonates with the echoes of Ogulin’s rich history and enchanting legends. With an awe-inspiring ability to weave tales, Sabina becomes a conduit of the town’s collective memory, preserving its stories and folklore within the depths of her own mind.
As you listen to her mesmerizing storytelling, you will be transported into a world where Bernardin Frankopan’s noble spirit lingers, Ivana Brlić Mažuranić’s literary wonders come to life, and characters like Regoča, Kosjenka, Đula, and Milan paint a vivid portrait of love’s bittersweet dance. Through Sabina’s words, the witches of Klek will cast their spell upon you, and you will discover the hidden tapestry of Ogulin’s most influential figures and legends. Brace yourself for an extraordinary journey guided by the captivating voice of Sabina Gvozdić, the custodian of Ogulin’s treasured stories, who will unveil the town’s secrets and breathe life into its vibrant past.
Klek
The mountain’s name may have originated from the word “knot” or “bell,” similar to the Austrian mountain Grossglockner, which means “Big Bell.” In our country, it is known as Veliki Klek. One popular legend revolves around a colossal being called Klek, during a time when giants and gods inhabited the earth. The gods selfishly hoarded all the food and drink, which angered the giants. Klek, one of the giants, initiated a war against the god Volos, who possessed a magical sword capable of turning anything to stone.
After a fierce battle, Klek, exhausted and famished, was petrified by Volos. However, before his transformation, Klek vowed to seek vengeance once he awoke. Interestingly, the River of Good flows at the base of Klek, believed by our ancestors to be Klek’s veins. During stormy nights at midnight, witches, fairies, and elves from all corners of the world gather atop Klek, shrieking and howling, attempting to rouse the slumbering giant who has been dormant for centuries.
In the late 19th century, historian and writer Strohal documented folk tales about Klek and the witches associated with it.
According to Strohal, the witches prepare secret concoctions of herbs, fats, and oils on Klek, which they use during their bathing rituals. Additionally, he claims that en route to a nearby hill, the witches cause destruction, consume children, and harm people. At the witches’ gathering, they partake in hours of dancing on a witches’ wheel, engaging in all sorts of wickedness and spreading evil throughout the world. It’s important to consider that these accounts were influenced by the prevailing persecution of witches during that era. Although the Inquisition arrived in Croatia relatively late compared to the rest of Europe, it eventually subsided.
Consequently, records from the late 17th and 18th centuries contain testimonies of women accused of witchcraft who mentioned Klek as their meeting place. Some of these women were condemned to death by burning at the stake, but according to a recorded folk legend, one of them was turned to stone.
The Birthplace of Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić
Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić was a prominent figure in Croatian literature and is widely considered one of the most important literary figures in Croatian history. She was born in Ogulin during the time when Croatia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Brlić-Mažuranić’s writing was strongly influenced by the folklore and oral traditions of her homeland.
She is best known for her collection of fairy tales and stories titled “Priče iz davnine” (Tales of Long Ago). Published in 1916, this collection brought her national and international acclaim. “Tales of Long Ago” is a unique work that combines elements of Croatian folklore, mythology, and original storytelling. The collection is beloved for its rich imagery, vivid characters, and exploration of moral and ethical themes.
Brlić-Mažuranić’s writing style was characterized by a strong narrative voice, poetic language, and a deep understanding of human nature. Her stories often featured strong female characters and explored themes such as love, loyalty, bravery, and the battle between good and evil. She managed to capture the essence of Croatian folklore while infusing her work with universal themes that resonated with readers from various cultures.
Đula i Milan
In the early 16th century, a legend emerged in the Ogulin region that has captivated the minds of generations. It tells the story of a young girl named Đula or Zulejka, whose name became forever linked to the abyss of the Dobra River in Ogulin. Đula was the daughter of Ivan pl. Gušić, the commander of the Ogulin fortress. Following the customs of the time, her hand was promised to an older nobleman for marriage. However, fate had different plans when a young and courageous captain named Milan Juraić arrived in Ogulin. Zulejka fell deeply in love with him, but their happiness was short-lived as Milan tragically perished in battle against the Turks.
Devastated by the news, Zulejka, or Đula, returned to the edge of the Dobra River abyss. It is from this poignant event that the abyss earned its name, Đulin’s Abyss. If one carefully observes the cliff overlooking the chasm, the profile of a man gazing towards the vast, dark opening can be discerned. Locals in Ogulin believe it is Milan forever yearning for his lost Zulejka.
From the captivating legend of Đula and Milan at Đulin’s Abyss to the enchanting cave system beneath the town’s streets, Ogulin offers a unique and magical experience. Explore the ancient fortress, stroll through charming streets, and embrace the rich cultural heritage that permeates the town. For lovers of legends and those seeking an unforgettable adventure, come and discover the captivating tales and hidden treasures of Ogulin. Embark on your own legendary journey today!
Don’t miss out on the chance to create your own story in this extraordinary town. Plan your visit to Ogulin now!
Your CTC Team
GREAT THINGS
Find out the latest information, interesting articles and much more…
Come to Croatia website uses cookies to ensure the best possible user experience. Click on the “Close Cookie Consent” button to agree with cookie policy. You can read all information about cookies at Information about cookies.