Ptuj — The Oldest City
Ptuj (pronounced: Ptuj, the P is pronounced) is the oldest city in Slovenia — and one of the oldest in all of Central Europe. The Romans already founded Poetovio here, one of the most important cities of the province of Pannonia. Today, a mighty castle sits atop the hill, at whose feet a charming medieval old town nestles against the Drava.
Sights
- Ptuj Castle (Ptujski grad): One of the largest castles in Slovenia with an excellent collection: weapons, musical instruments, historical costumes, and an extensive Kurentovanje exhibition. The view from the castle over the old town, the Drava, and the vineyards is fantastic. Admission: 7€.
- Old Town: Medieval alleys, baroque churches, the Dominican Monastery (13th century) with the oldest cloister in Slovenia, and magnificent townhouses. Ptuj is what Rothenburg ob der Tauber would be if no one knew it.
- Orpheus Monument: A 5-meter-high Roman tombstone from the 2nd century in the town square — it served as a pillory in the Middle Ages.
- Mithras Temple: Three Roman temples of the Mithras cult in the vicinity — the most significant north of the Alps. Exhibited in the city museum.
Kurentovanje — Slovenia's Carnival
Ptuj is famous for the Kurentovanje — the largest and wildest carnival in Slovenia, celebrated every year for 11 days before Shrove Tuesday. The Kurenti (plural of Kurent) are archaic figures in shaggy sheepskins with horned masks, heavy cowbells around their waists, and huge red tongues. They dance through the streets to drive away winter with their noise — a pagan ritual that dates back to pre-Christian times and is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The festival attracts over 100,000 visitors — to a town with 18,000 inhabitants. It is loud, wild, and unique. The Kurent masks and costumes are Slovenia's most iconic souvenir (from 30€ for a miniature).
