The best view of Novo Mesto
High above the old town centre of Novo Mesto, where the river Krka embraces the town in a picturesque meander, rises St Nicholas’s Cathedral, one of the most beautiful architectural and cultural landmarks of Dolenjska. Built in the fourteenth century, the cathedral with its imposing 53-metre bell tower and Gothic sanctuary has dominated the hill for centuries. Among the notable works of art it contains is a painting of St Nicholas by the Venetian Renaissance master Tintoretto. Located above the high altar, it has long attracted art lovers from far and wide.
In 2022 the bell tower was converted into the Observation Deck Kapitelj, a new tourist attraction offering visitors magnificent views of Novo Mesto and its surroundings. After climbing 126 steps to a height of around 24 metres, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama stretching across the old town centre, the green Krka, the winegrowing hill of Trška Gora and the Gorjanci range with Trdinov Vrh, its highest peak, in the distance.
A visit to the Observation Deck Kapitelj is a special experience that combines history, art, architecture and natural beauty in one place. The feeling you get as you gaze across the varied landscape of Dolenjska from this peaceful vantage point above the town is unforgettable — serene, inspiring and deeply connected with the identity of the place.
Tickets are available at TIC Novo mesto, the Dolenjska Museum, and online.
OPENING HOURS
SUMMER SCHEDULE (1 April – 30 September)
Monday–Friday: 9:00–11:30 / 12:05–18:00
Saturday: 10:00–15:30 / 16:05–18:00
Sunday: 12:05–18:00
WINTER SCHEDULE (1 October – 31 March)
Monday–Friday: 9:00–11:30 / 12:05–17:00
Saturday: 10:00–14:30 / 15:05–17:00
Sunday: 12:05–17:00
Please note: Church bells ring on the hour throughout the day and additionally at 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays; therefore, visiting during these times is not recommended. Free earplugs are available at TIC Novo mesto. Holy Mass is held daily at 7:00 p.m. in summer and 6:00 p.m. in winter, so visits conclude no later than 6:00 p.m. during the summer season and 5:00 p.m. during the winter season. On church holidays or during special ceremonies, the Church reserves the right to modify opening hours. Visitors are kindly asked to respect the rules and maintain appropriate conduct.
Photo Gallery
