Slovenia has become a hotspot for landscape photographers worldwide, thanks to its stunning natural beauty. The Julian Alps with Triglav National Park, Lake Bled with its island and iconic church, the Soča River, picturesque waterfalls, vineyards, and hilltop churches are some of the main attractions for photography enthusiasts. Among these, the St. Thomas Church has arguably become Slovenia’s most famous photo spot. However, there are many others worth exploring! I often say, half-jokingly, that if you photographed a different hilltop church every day in Slovenia, you’d end up with incredible shots of each one. Here’s a list of the top 7 hilltop churches of Slovenia you must photograph.
1. St Thomas Church / Cerkev Sv Tomaža
Let’s start with St. Thomas Church (Cerkev Svetega Tomaža), which is undoubtedly a favorite among photographers. This iconic church is nestled in the scenic hills above Škofja Loka. For more details on its history and directions, be sure to read this article. You can also check out my winter vlog for a visual journey.
2. Jamnik Church / Cerkev na Jamniku
The Church of St. Primus and Felician, commonly known as the Jamnik Church, has been a favorite among photographers for many years. It was Steve McCurry who captured a full moon shot here, bringing the church into the spotlight. That was back in the days of Yugoslavia. Today, this little church continues to attract numerous photographers. If you visit, be sure to walk up to the church itself—don’t just stay at the viewpoint!
Here is the location.
3. St Jacob Church / Cerkev Svetega Jakoba
St. Jacob Church (Cerkev Svetega Jakoba) is the closest church to my home—just a quick 20-minute walk. It’s a lovely hike to reach the church, but please be mindful not to walk through the meadows.
Sveti Jakob location.
4. St Nicholas Church / Cerkev Sv Nikolaja
This small, unassuming church makes a wonderful subject when photographing the rolling hills from Vrh Svete Trojice. Be sure to bring a telephoto lens and see how many different churches you can spot in the landscape!
5. St Thomas Church / Cerkev Svetega Tomaža
Not to be confused with the more well-known St. Thomas Church, this is an entirely different location, featuring an equally beautiful church. It is situated in the remote village of Gorenji Vrsnik, nestled in picturesque meadows and surrounded by stunning trees. With a trail leading up to the church, the photos you can capture here are truly breathtaking, showcasing the quintessential Slovenian countryside.
6. St Leonard Church / Cerkev Svetega Lenarta
Črni Vrh is another beautiful location in the Polhograjsko hribovje (Polhov Gradec Hills). The St. Leonard Church (Cerkev Svetega Lenarta) stands proudly above the Ljubljana basin and can be easily photographed from the road. Though larger than most hilltop churches in Slovenia, it still retains a romantic charm, much like the smaller ones.
7. Holy Saturday Church / Cerkev Svete Sobote
The Church of the Sorrowful Mother of God on Bukov Vrh (Cerkev Žalostne Matere Božje na Bukovem vrhu) is commonly referred to in Slovenia as Sveta Sobota or simply Bukov Vrh. While it can be photographed with a regular camera, it looks most stunning from the air. Located just a short drive from Črni Vrh, you can easily photograph both churches on the same trip. From the church itself, there are incredible views of another church with Mt. Triglav in the background. Be sure to bring a telephoto lens to capture this stunning scene.
More Hilltop Churches of Slovenia
As mentioned at the beginning, there are numerous hilltop churches of Slovenia and here are a few more that I managed to photograph over the years.
8. Sveti Andrej, Planina nad Horjulom
This little church is somehow my own finding. I used to bicycle around Polhov Gradec hills a lot and once I discovered this amazing view. Sveti Andrej Church is located perfectly in front of rolling hills, creating this magical scene! Unfortunately, the photo location is a private land so I cannot disclose the location of it. Passionate, responsible photographers will find it, and they’ll ensure there are no conflicts with the landowner.
9. Sveta Trojica
The Holy Trinity Church (Cerkev Svete Trojice) stands out as a unique hilltop church in Slovenia, with its architectural style leaning more towards Italian than Central European. Recently renovated in stone, it has fortunately retained its historic charm. Reaching this beautiful spot requires a moderate hike.
10. St Nicholas Church at Tabor
St. Nicholas Church (Cerkev Svetega Nikolaja) at Tabor is one of the few remaining examples of walled churches in Slovenia. These fortified churches, known as tabor (encampments), served as refuges for the local population during Ottoman invasions. The best way to photograph this charming church is by using a drone, but take extra care when taking off and landing in the forest!
11. Sveti Ožbolt
St. Oswald Church (Sveti Ožbolt) above Škofja Loka is one of the lesser-known churches among photographers, perhaps due to its remote location and the challenge of capturing it. There’s a narrow gap between the trees, just wide enough for one photographer with a telephoto lens. However, it’s well worth the effort. Moving closer to the church provides a different perspective and stunning views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.
12. Cerkev Svete Ane, Vidošiči
Bela Krajina is such a beautiful region of Slovenia, and it’s still largely unexplored by photographers! The little church of St. Ana in the village of Vidošiči was recommended to me by my photography friend, Jošt Gantar, and I was fortunate enough to visit it during the peak of autumn colors. It was an unforgettable experience.
13. Jeruzalem
The Church of the Sorrowful Mother of God (Cerkev Žalostne Matere Božje) in Jeruzalem is located in one of the most stunning wine regions I’ve encountered—not just in Slovenia, but among all the places I’ve traveled. The terraced vineyards, lush forests, winding roads, and scenic trails create breathtaking landscapes. The church can be photographed from the nearby hills, particularly in the direction of Svetinje, or captured beautifully from the air with a drone. While you’re there, be sure to sample some of the local wines and enjoy the delicious food!
14. Zavrč
The Church of the Assumption of Mary in Zavrč wraps up this list of hilltop churches. Zavrč is a small village on the border with Croatia, and it’s virtually unknown even among Slovenian photographers. That being said, it’s definitely worth the drive to visit—what do you think?
Conclusion – Hilltop Churches of Slovenia
I hope you find this list of hilltop churches both inspirational and useful. It’s my personal list and by no means a complete one. If you know of any other churches that should be included, feel free to let me know. Thank you!