Church of St. Lenart

The Church of St Leonard stands at the highest point of Lenart in the Slovenske gorice hills, overlooking the historic market town. First mentioned in 1196, the present building dates from 1515 to 1518. It is a distinctive example of Late Gothic architecture in the Slovenske gorice region, with traces of an earlier Romanesque church. The town takes its name from its patron saint, St Leonard.

Inside, slender stone columns and intricate net and star-shaped rib vaults are carved from local sandstone. The main altar, dedicated to St Leonard, was created in 1769 by Baroque sculptor Jožef Holzinger. Two side chapels, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and St Sebastian, were added in the 18th century.

The church once served a defensive purpose. Fortified walls surrounded it, offering protection during Ottoman raids. The bell tower still retains defensive architectural features, including a firing opening. Today, the church remains a centre of parish life, particularly during the annual parish feast in early November, and a landmark of Lenart's historic centre.