Čardaci – mraclinska povijest i naslijeđe

The book Čardaci – Mraclinska povijest i nasledje was published in 2024 by the Dučec Cultural and Artistic Association from Mraclin. The editorial team consists of Ratko Cvetnić (editor-in-chief), Josip Kos, Matija Kos and Maja Mravec. It is an ambitious collection that presents the čardak – a traditional Turopolje wooden house on pillars – as a trademark of Mraclin and the entire Turopolje region.

The book is divided into eleven chapters and provides a comprehensive view of the čardaks: from their construction, historical development and role in the daily life of their ancestors, through architectural and cultural value, to the ecological context and contemporary challenges of preservation. It abounds with over 220 photographs, many of which have never been published before, and contributions from experts (including cooperation with the Turopolje Museum).

Special emphasis is placed on the čardak as a vessel for life – a place where generations of Mraclin residents grew up, worked and shaped their identity. With a historical and cultural approach, the book combines tradition with modern technologies through the presentation of 3D souvenirs of the Mraclin čardak (authors Josip Kos and Leo Vukelić).

The collection was presented in June 2024 during the XIX St. Vitus Day in Mraclin and quickly became an important local cultural event. It is intended for everyone interested in the Turopolje heritage, traditional architecture and the preservation of identity.