In the village of Jabukovac, in Veliko Selo, there once lived three fourth grade primary school students: Ljuban, Draga and Pero. One day, their teacher decided to take them on a trip to the city, traveling by train. Grateful for the free trip to Zagreb, they gave their thanks with a song and then visited the zoo. However, the teacher suddenly fell ill, which is why he had to stay in the hospital, and the children are forced to return home alone. On the way back, they are hit by a winter storm, which causes the train to stop in front of a high snow drift. Thanks to the dexterity and help of the children, the railway workers manage to free the train and continue the journey.
Written back in 1931, the iconic novel Train in the Snow still delights children today with its story about the power of togetherness and harmony.
The Mato Lovrak Cultural Center is located in Veliki Grđevac, the birthplace of the famous writer, and it is the perfect destination for a family trip, where you yourself will return to your own childhood and discover a monument to the olden days that no longer exist. In the town center there is a school named after Lovrak, with his memorial room full of books, records and school certificates. But the real adventure begins when you enter the open train in front of the school and head towards the cultural center while the guide tells you stories about it. Located next to a pond and green areas, the center offers an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.
The biggest attraction is the old train with wooden benches, similar to the one from the book Train in the Snow. In addition to the train, here you can see a mill from Pero the Lump’s Gang, a well and a traditional Miller’s house, as well as a promenade along the stream, a children’s playground and a summer classroom.
In the immediate vicinity is a two-kilometer long Nature Friends Trail, where you can explore the wealth of flora and fauna of this region, including otters and beavers. The Mato Lovrak Cultural Center combines culture, history and nature with games, fun and adventure, and the Lovrak Cultural Days are held here every year. Visit this unique center by yourself or arrange a guided tour with the Mato Lovrak Cultural Center and enjoy the charms of Lovrak’s works!
