1467
GASTUŽ HISTORY
In the past, Gastuž fell under the auspices of the renowned Žička kartuzija Monastery, established around 1160. Positioned at the entrance to the monastery, Gastuž, or the guest house, accommodated all those who journeyed past the imposing monastery, providing overnight stays.
Following the abandonment of the lower monastery and the adjacent hospital in Špitalič, there arose a necessity for new facilities to host visitors, travelers, and foreigners who were not permitted entry into the monastery grounds. The ground floor of the building, intended for this purpose, was erected in the 15th century (in 1467), while the first floor was added in the 17th century, giving Gastuž its present appearance. The lower section once housed a guesthouse where Carthusian wine was vended, while the upper floor provided accommodations for overnight guests. Additionally, there was a stable for travelers’ horses or harnessed livestock. A taxman resided within the building, overseeing the transportation of tithe grain and wine for the Carthusian monastery and managing the protective doors that defended the monastery’s entrance.
Initially owned by the Carthusians until the dissolution of the monastery in 1782, it is unclear whether Gastuž ceased operations following the monastery’s abandonment. Nevertheless, it stands as the oldest inn in Slovenia, unmatched elsewhere in the country.
GASTUŽ TODAY
Gastuž, still standing proudly today, continues to provide shelter to travelers, visitors, tourists, and other guests seeking refreshment while visiting Žička kartuzija Monestary. Since June 2021, the restaurant has been under the management of Mateja and Andrej Smogavc. Gastuž offers a daily menu of simple home cuisine alongside an array of original drinks. At the end of 2022, the dining experience was elevated with the addition of Restaurant Spargus, situated on the second floor of Gastuž, offering authentic dishes of the highest quality.
In addition to the inn, our Tourist Information Office (TIC) is housed within Gastuž. Here, alongside ticket sales, visitors can discover a wide variety of products, some of which are certified by the Okusi Rogle brand (Tastes of Rogla).
