Located in northern Croatia, this small town is known for its Neanderthal Museum and prehistoric cave site where 900 fossilized human bones were discovered in 1899.
Located 55 kilometers from Zagreb in northern Croatia's Zagorje region, Krapina is home to the Neanderthal Museum where archaeologists discovered hundreds of prehistoric human fossils. Visit the thermal pools of Krapinske Toplice, explore the Ljudevit Gaj Museum, or time your visit for the annual Kajkavian music festival that fills the streets with traditional songs.
Exploring the Neanderthal Museum
The Neanderthal Museum sits on Hušnjakovo hill, where archaeologist Dragutin Gorjanović-Kramberger discovered over 800 Neanderthal fossils in 1899. The exhibits explain human evolution through interactive displays and scientific presentations. Walk through the outdoor park to see life-sized statues of Neanderthals performing daily activities, alongside replicas of prehistoric animals including bears, moose, and beavers. These statues stand at the exact locations where researchers found the original fossils, creating an accurate representation of the prehistoric settlement.
Cultural Events and Festivals
During the Festival kajkavske popevke, musicians perform traditional songs in the local Kajkavian dialect throughout the town center. Both local and national performers present traditional and modern interpretations of regional music. The Franciscan monastery and St. Catherine's church host concerts during Krapinafest, the annual contemporary Christian music festival running since 1997. These venues also hold classical concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
Thermal Springs and Wellness
The pools at Krapinske Toplice contain natural thermal springs that stay at 41°C (106°F). The wellness center includes indoor and outdoor pools, medical facilities, and specialized treatment areas. The first Kneipp spa opened here in 1903, and today the complex treats medical patients and welcomes recreational swimmers. The mineral-rich waters help alleviate rheumatic conditions.
Transportation and Access
Regular trains run on the R106 corridor, and Presečki company operates bus services to Krapina. The central bus station connects to major towns across the region with multiple daily departures. By car, take the A2 freeway or state road D1, which connect directly to Zagreb and Varaždin.
The Ljudevit Gaj Museum
The museum occupies the former home of Croatia's influential language reformer. Each of the four rooms contains exhibits about different aspects of Gaj's life, including his personal library, writing instruments, and correspondence with other 19th-century intellectual figures. The exhibits document his work in standardizing Croatian orthography and his role in the Croatian National Revival movement.
