Semič is a settlement and a municipality centre in Bela krajina. The town is located 10 km west of the Bela krajina regional center, Metlika. In the central part of the settlement stands the Baroque Church of St. Stephen, with its first written mention dating back to the 13th century. The church, with its grandeur, dominates the village core and bears witness to the rich history of the area.

Natural and Cultural Landmarks

On the northern edge of the settlement, the plain rises into the slopes of the Smuk Plateau. Due to its favorable sunny position, this area is distinctly viticultural, where high-quality Bela krajina wines are produced. Rising above Semič is Smuk (547 m), which represents a popular recreational point for hikers and paragliders.

On the edge of the plateau, the ruins of Smuk Castle are visible, and in the immediate vicinity stands the Church of St. Lawrence, offering a magnificent view over the entire Bela krajina, extending to the Gorjanci Hills and the Croatian mountains.

Alongside its natural beauty, Semič also offers a rich cultural heritage intertwined with historical events and local traditions. In the centre of the settlement stands the Semeniška House, one of the oldest buildings in the area, today converted into a museum collection that presents the life and work of the people of Bela krajina through the centuries. Particularly interesting is the ethnological collection, which showcases traditional Bela krajina costumes, customs, and handicrafts that have shaped the identity of this region.

The surroundings of Semič feature several karst phenomena, among which the Malikovec karst cave stands out. This natural attraction draws lovers of the underground world, as it reveals an abundance of stalactite formations and geological processes that have shaped the Bela krajina landscape. Nearby lies the source of the Krupa River, one of the most beautiful karst springs in Slovenia, whose emerald colour and calm flow create an idyllic natural setting.

An important part of the town’s identity is also reflected in numerous events, the most notable being the traditional Semiški sejem fair, which attracts visitors from near and far every year. The event brings together local craftsmen, winemakers, cultural associations, and visitors eager to experience the pulse of life in Bela krajina. A special place belongs to the region’s winemaking tradition, reflected in the many wine routes and vineyard cottages where visitors can taste excellent wines and enjoy views of the gently rolling landscape.

In this way, Semič combines natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local life, placing it among the most interesting places in Bela krajina. Despite its modest size, it maintains a strong identity and pride that locals carefully preserve and pass on to future generations. The town remains an important centre of Bela krajina culture, as well as a pleasant starting point for exploring the wider region, which captivates with its authenticity and natural charm.