The fortress was intentionally built as a water-fortress, surrounded by moats and marshes to deter invaders.
The 'Picok' (rooster) legend originated during a 16th-century Ottoman siege when residents fired a rooster from a cannon to trick attackers into believing they had an abundance of food.
The site hosts a permanent exhibition of paintings by Ivan Lacković Croata, a renowned representative of the Naive art movement.
It is one of the rare surviving examples of a fortified manor (Wasserburg) in the continental part of Croatia.
The surrounding landscape, the Đurđevački pijesci, is a protected geographical-botanical reserve often called the 'Croatian Sahara'.
The manor's internal courtyard features an original well dating back to the period of the fortress's initial construction.
The Old Town of Đurđevac, locally known as Stari grad, is a restored 15th-century fortified manor located on the edge of the Đurđevački pijesci sands. The structure serves as a cultural hub housing the Đurđevac City Museum, an art gallery, and a wedding hall. Its most famous historical association is the 'Legend of the Rooster' (Legenda o Picokima), a folklore tale involving the clever defense of the fortress against Ottoman forces. The site preserves traditional Podravina heritage through its architecture and curated exhibits. The complex grounds include a natural area showcasing the unique desert-like landscape of the surrounding region. It remains the focal point for the annual Picokijada festival, which re-enacts the town's historical defense. The restoration of the building prioritizes the preservation of late Gothic and early Renaissance structural elements. It is an active site for educational programs and historical research regarding the Croatian Drava region.
From the wooden bridge looking towards the main gate, which captures the symmetry of the renovated brick façade.
Visit the onsite museum to access the inner galleries and the permanent art collection.
Check the local events calendar to see if your visit coincides with the annual Picokijada cultural festival.
Walk the perimeter of the fortress to view the moat and the natural landscape bordering the desert sands.
Do not attempt to walk through the protected sandy vegetation of the nearby reserve; stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing the rare flora.
The museum and galleries are typically closed on Mondays.
