The Parish Church of St Peter in Šempeter in the Savinja Valley is one of the most recognisable sacred landmarks in the region. Its location in the immediate vicinity of the world‑famous Roman Necropolis is no coincidence – this area, imbued with strong symbolic meaning since antiquity, has remained an important spiritual and cultural centre throughout the centuries. The church, after which the settlement itself was named, is at its core much older than its present architectural appearance might suggest. The earliest mentions date back to the Middle Ages, when a smaller Romanesque church likely stood on this site, dedicated to the Apostle Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, sailors, and the keeper of the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Architectural development through the centuries
The present church building is the result of several reconstructions that reflect the stylistic currents of different periods. The basic floor plan and parts of the masonry reveal Gothic origins, preserved in several structural elements. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the church underwent extensive Baroque renovations, characteristic of the wider Savinja Valley, where the Baroque style left a strong imprint. During this period, some of the most beautiful altars and decorative details were created, many of which still adorn the interior today.
The exterior of the church is harmonious yet dynamic: the imposing bell tower, which dominates the settlement, was raised and reinforced several times, as it also served as a lookout and defensive point. The façade combines elements of Classical orderliness with Baroque softness, giving the building a distinctive and multilayered character.
Interior – a treasury of sacred art
Inside the church, visitors encounter precious altars, sculptural works, and liturgical objects that testify to the rich religious tradition and the importance of the parish in the heart of the Savinja Valley. The main altar, dedicated to St Peter, forms the artistic focal point of the church. It is accompanied by side altars dedicated to Mary, St Roch, and other popular saints who held special significance for the local community.
Ceiling paintings, ornamental details, and finely crafted furnishings reflect the work of master artisans who contributed both spiritual and aesthetic value to the church. Over the centuries, the church has also been a venue for important rituals, processions, and celebrations that have shaped the identity of the settlement.
A cultural and spiritual centre of Šempeter
The Church of St Peter is not only an architectural monument but also a living centre of spiritual life. For centuries, the parish has been closely connected with the development of the town, with education, charity, and the preservation of local customs. The church is an indispensable part of Šempeter’s silhouette – its bell tower serves as a point of orientation, a symbol of belonging, and a quiet companion to the everyday life of its inhabitants.
Virtual tour from year 2008 – a modern view into history
A special added value of the church’s modern presentation is the option of a virtual tour, allowing visitors to explore the interior and surroundings through 360° panoramic imagery. This digital experience reveals details that might otherwise go unnoticed during a traditional visit, while also making the site accessible to those unable to travel there in person. The virtual tour thus connects tradition with modern technology and opens the church to a wider audience.