Đurđevac

Đurđevac was located between the Drava and Bilogora and was named after the church of St. George around which the settlement developed.

In the very center of Đurđevac is the Stari Grad fortress, a medieval Velikaš castle-fortress that sprung up in a perfect defensive position. It is one of the most significant fortifications in continental Croatia and one of the best-preserved Wasserburg-type fortifications in Croatia. Until the first half of the 19th century, there was a large swamp here. It is surrounded by a natural park that is legally protected in order to better preserve the beautiful historical and architectural ensemble that survived centuries of warfare. The old town was rebuilt in the second half of the 20th century. Today, you can visit the Museum of the City of Đurđevac or try traditional food in the restaurant. The fortress of Stari Grad and the Church of St. Jurja, located in Đurđevac, are among the most beautiful examples of Renaissance buildings in Croatia and are a wonderful cultural heritage.

In the fortress of Stari grad Đurđevac, you can learn all about the legend of the Picoks in the Picokijade Interpretation Center. Today, the legend of the Picoks is an intangible cultural asset of the Republic of Croatia. On the last weekend in June in Đurđevac, the cultural and entertainment event Picokijada takes place. The coat of arms of the city of Đurđevac shows exactly the picok. This is not an ordinary rooster, but a bird that carries a cannonball while flying.

The town of Đurđevac is the proud owner of the remains of the only Croatian desert, an area known for its unique flora and fauna. In the eastern part of the city, you can visit a protected geographical and botanical area called Đurđevački pijesci (sands or peski), popularly known as the Croatian Sahara. Numerous endemic species live here, and in the warmer times of the year, about three hundred species of butterflies.

Đurđevac celebrates its day on April 23, Đurđevo.