Stara grofija

Stara grofija, or the Old County Mansion, located in the heart of Celje, Slovenia, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural splendor. This magnificent mansion, which now houses the Celje Regional Museum, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past, with its stunning Renaissance architecture and a treasure trove of historical artifacts.

The Historical Significance of Stara grofija

The origins of Stara grofija can be traced back to the early 15th century when it was first mentioned in historical records in 1414 as a Schreibhaus, or writing house. Initially serving as an administrative building for the Counts of Celje, it played a crucial role in the governance of the region. When the Counts of Celje met their demise in 1456, the building transitioned into the hands of the provincial princes, likely becoming the residence of the Celje administrators.

In 1580, Archduke Charles sold the building to the Counts of Thurn-Valsassina, who undertook significant renovations, transforming it into a late Renaissance palace. The addition of arcaded corridors in 1620 and 1640, as well as a grand staircase between 1650 and 1680, further enhanced its architectural grandeur. The Thurn-Valsassina family retained ownership until 1869, when the mansion was acquired by the municipal government through an auction. Subsequent renovations between 1870 and 1873 repurposed the building to suit the needs of the city, and in 1890, the city walls were demolished to create a public square.

Architectural Marvels

Stara grofija is a remarkable example of the Graz Renaissance architectural style. The building's core is designed in an L-shape, with wings extending south and east. It comprises a basement, a main floor, and a half-floor attic. The arcaded corridors, added in the early 17th century, are a distinctive feature, lending an air of elegance to the mansion. The southern facade, though simpler in design, is adorned with a charming balcony, adding to its allure.

The interior of Stara grofija is equally captivating, with its ancient vaults and intricately profiled wooden ceilings. In 1926, during restoration work in the grand ceremonial hall, the famous Celje Ceiling was discovered. This remarkable piece of art, believed to have been painted by Marcin Teofilovicz around 1622-1623, is the finest example of illusionistic painting in Slovenia. The ceiling, measuring 14.45 by 9.87 meters, features eleven painted panels separated by wooden beams. The central panel depicts an illusionistic architecture with towers, offering a mesmerizing view of the sky. The surrounding balustrades, adorned with hanging tapestries, reveal noblemen, noblewomen, courtiers, and soldiers, along with a portrait of the presumed commissioner, Janez Ambrož Thurn, and possibly a self-portrait of the artist and his assistant. The four seasons are allegorically depicted along the longer sides, while the shorter sides showcase the battle between the Latins and the Trojans. The corners are adorned with four giants attacking the heavens: Icarus, Tantalus, Ixion, and Phaeton.

Exploring the Celje Regional Museum

Today, Stara grofija is home to the Celje Regional Museum, which boasts an impressive array of collections. The cultural and art history collection features furniture, paintings, graphics, sculptures, utensils, weapons, and other artifacts spanning various stylistic periods from the 13th to the late 19th century. The permanent exhibition, From Gothic to Historicism in Steps, is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with visual impairments.

One of the museum's highlights is the Roman Lapidarium, located in the basement. Covering an area of 440 square meters, this collection is one of the largest and most beautiful of its kind in Slovenia, showcasing an array of Roman stone monuments and inscriptions.

Visiting Stara grofija

A visit to Stara grofija is a journey through time, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Celje. As you wander through its halls and corridors, you'll be transported to a bygone era, where the past comes to life through the exquisite architecture and carefully curated exhibits.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Stara grofija promises an unforgettable experience. The mansion's timeless beauty and the stories it holds within its walls make it a must-visit destination in Celje. So, step into the past and discover the wonders of Stara grofija, where history and art intertwine to create a truly enchanting experience.