Viticulture and Winemaking in the Croatian Zagorje
The exhibition "Viticulture and Winemaking in the Croatian Zagorje" presents a comprehensive overview of the grapevine, viticulture, and winemaking as a phenomenon encompassing natural, economic, social, and cultural dimensions that has shaped the landscape and identity of the Croatian Zagorje for centuries. Beginning with the biology and evolution of the grapevine, as well as the influence of soil, minerals, and terroir on grape cultivation and the characteristics of the wine, the exhibition introduces visitors to the natural foundations upon which the rich viticultural tradition of the Zagorje region has developed.
Special attention is given to the challenges that have shaped viticulture throughout history, most notably diseases, pests, and natural disasters. The emergence of powdery mildew, downy mildew, and phylloxera in the 19th century triggered a major crisis, yet it simultaneously spurred the modernization of grapevine protection, the renewal of vineyards, and the application of new knowledge. Historical sources indicate that, for a long time, viticulture in the Zagorje region was one of the most significant agricultural and economic activities, deeply intertwined with feudal estates, peasant holdings, and the local market.
The exhibition also traces the transformation of viticulture and winemaking throughout the 20th century. A period marked by changes in technologies, production methods, grape varieties, and the economic significance of vineyards. Despite a reduction in the total area of vineyards, the vineyard and the traditional vineyard cottage klijet have remained vital elements of the Zagorje landscape and way of life. The material culture of viticulture is showcased through tools, barrels, baskets, ceramic vessels, and other objects, with a focus on the traditional crafts—blacksmithing, cooperage, basketry, and pottery that were once essential to the functioning of a vineyard estate.
An important part of the exhibition is the customs and symbolism of wine. The viticulture year is accompanied by holidays and folk practices associated with Saints Vincent, George, John the Baptist, Bartolo, Michael and Martin, and wine is present in family, social and ritual events. The artistic and cultural dimension of the theme is complemented by the works of Antun Augustinčić, the story of the autochthonous Sokol wine variety from Klanjec and its revitalization, and vinorel – a wine painting technique that turns wine from a motif into an artistic medium itself.
By bringing together natural history, historical, ethnological, and artistic themes, the exhibition demonstrates that viticulture in the Croatian Zagorje region is more than just the production of grapes and wine. It is complex cultural heritage where nature, human labor, knowledge, crafts, customs, art, and local identity converge.