The name of the settlement was changed from Selo to Selo nad Polhovim Gradcem in 1955.[4]Selo nad Polhovem Gradcu literally means 'village above Polhov Gradec'. The name Selo is derived from the archaic Slovene common noun selo 'village, settlement'.[5]
Church
The local church is dedicated to Saint Gertrude and stands on the western slope of Mount Tošč (1021 m). It was first mentioned in documents dating to 1526, but was extensively rebuilt in the mid-18th century, with the bell tower and chancel added in 1756. The previous bell tower is believed to have stood in front of the chancel. The altar dates from about 1800, and the church's painting of Saint Urban and the Pietà were produced by Leopold Layer's school. The bell in the bell tower dates from 1563.[3][6]