Marof (228 m) is a historically and archaeologically important hill on the north side of Novo Mesto that boasts a rich prehistoric heritage. It is the location of the Kapiteljska Njiva archaeological site, the largest prehistoric burial ground in Novo Mesto. Investigations to date have uncovered more than 300 cremation graves from the Late Bronze Age (10th–8th century BC), more than 1,000 inhumation graves from the Early Iron Age (8th–4th century BC) and more than 720 cremation graves from the Late Iron Age (4th–1st century BC). The cluster of prehistoric and Roman sites in the area comprises the Marof hillfort, the Mestne Njive urnfield, the Kapiteljska Njiva burial ground, consisting of both flat graves and tumuli, and the flat grave cemetery of Beletov Vrt.
Extensive archaeological excavations have taken place on Marof, with notable finds including several Hallstatt situlae, today part of the collection of the Dolenjska Museum in Novo Mesto. To date, ten richly appointed graves of members of the highest stratum of Hallstatt society – princes who held the levers of economic, military, political and spiritual power – have been found at Kapiteljska Njiva. Tellingly, the finds from these graves include imported artefacts from the highly developed and advanced Greek and Etruscan civilisations, including two Greek helmets, the only two of their kind to have been found in Slovenia. Dolenjska’s Early Iron Age archaeological heritage forms a distinctive part of the nation’s most important cultural heritage and places the region at the very pinnacle of European archaeology.
The protected area of Marof, designated a monument of local importance in 1992, forms part of a characteristic vista of the city. Alongside its archaeological significance, Marof is a popular spot for walkers. Kette’s Avenue, one of the most attractive walks in Novo Mesto and one of the longest tree-lined avenues in Slovenia, runs over the hill. Renamed in more recent times in honour of the poet Dragotin Kette, it was for a long time – since prehistoric times, in fact – the main route into the town. For today’s inhabitants, it is a popular walking path that runs from the bank building on Seidlova Cesta to Bršljin one side of the hill and to Mestne Njive on the other.
The Marof area was also caught up in the events of the Napoleonic Wars. When suppressing a peasant revolt in 1809, French troops burnt a number of villages in the surrounding area, including Marof. The hilltop was a strategic point that once offered defenders a commanding view over the area. This fact was also exploited by the Italian occupying forces during the Second World War. Today the hill is the perfect place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Hikers will enjoy the Seven Hills Hike, which includes a visit to Marof, with a fine view over the city and the surrounding area. Although Marof’s main role today is as a place to walk in beautiful natural surroundings full of cultural interest, its rich history and archaeological importance offer valuable insights into the area’s past.
At the foot of the hill stand the Marof Sports Hall, a venue for numerous sports and cultural events, and the Bistro Marof restaurant.