In this Kurentovanje article, we will present you with this traditional ethnic carnival in Ptuj, which is becoming increasingly popular. Furthermore, it is undoubtedly one of the finest such celebrations in Europe. Additionally, we will reveal some tips and secrets on why you should visit it. So, if you want to learn more, please proceed with reading.
©fotolangerholc/Kurentovanje
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What is the Kurentovanje of Ptuj?
Firstly, Kurentovanje is a carnival celebration in Slovenia, mainly in Ptuj, to scare away winter and welcome spring. Secondly, it features local elements like music, dance, cuisine, and wines. The festival includes parades, performances, dances, and concerts, attracting more visitors yearly. Consequently, it was listed as the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017 and is regarded as one of the ten best carnivals in the world by Lonely Planet. Lastly, Kurentovanje offers an excellent opportunity to observe traditional and modern carnival characters, go to a masquerade, and much more.
When is the Kurentovanje?
The Kurentovanje or Carnival in Ptuj is a carnival-style spring festival 11 days before Ash Wednesday and culminates on Carnival Tuesday.
Furthermore, it will take place from approximately February 3 to 13. February 2024. The celebration also features events before the official carnival on Candlemas Day.
Where is the Kurentovanje of Ptuj
Kurentovanje is a traditional festival celebrated in Slovenia, particularly in Ptuj. Ptuj, one of the oldest cities in the region, has been mentioned in records dating back to 69 BC. The city covers a total area of 25.6 square kilometers and has a population of 17,000.
History of the Carnival of Ptuj
The Korant has been present since the Ptuj settlements. Its origins trace back to the 6th century. However, the first records date back to 1610, when the authorities suppressed the celebration for not being related to Christian values. Despite that, The Korant, introduced in the 19th century, became a central carnival figure. Kurents celebrated the festivities with dances and enhanced them with new elements. During the Second World War, they were almost extinct but re-emerged through some celebrations on the city’s outskirts.
The Kurentovanje carnival parade was organized in 1960 to maintain suppressed traditions after World War II. Over time, more cultural and tourist organizations got involved, contributing to its development and establishment as a tourist attraction. 2017, the carnival was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
How is the Carnival of Ptuj celebrated?
Most significantly, it is a carnival celebration with various cultural elements featuring the Kurent as the central figure. Other characters include Orači or Labriegos, Kureki in piceki or Roosters, Nagajivi Medved or Bears, Pokači, Ruse, Radoživi dornavski cigani or Gypsies, Baba nos deda, and the Prince of Carnival. Secondly, door-to-door rounds are performed a few days before the official celebration, and the Prince of Carnival receives the city’s key at the opening of the festivities.
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Kurent or Korant – the central carnival figure
The Kurent, or Korant, is Slovenia’s prominent traditional carnival figure. It is known for its massive sheepskin garment, the chain with giant bells, and unique red or green leg warmers. Its appearance may vary, but it is the most famous carnival figure in the region. There are two types of Kurent-Korant in Slovenia: the “feathery” type from Markovci and the “horned” type from Haloze. The Kurent-Korant’s purpose is to “chase away winter.”
Tips for going to the Kurentovanje in Ptuj
Suppose you are planning to attend the Kurentovanje festival in Ptuj. In that case, we recommend that you plan your trip, create an itinerary of activities you want to do, and book the accommodation you choose. Packing comfortable clothes is also essential to enjoy the carnival to the fullest.
Furthermore, we suggest that you pack warm clothes as the temperature in the city remains below 10 degrees Celsius during Kurentovanje.
What to see and do inside Ptuj’s Kurentovanje
The Slovenian carnival celebration in late January and early February includes Kurent Jumping, an art exhibition, the Intercontinental Meeting of Traditional Carnival Characters, nightly zombie shows, the Bourgeoisie Parade, the International Carnival Parade, the Children’s Parade, and the Carnival Burial. Outside Ptuj, visit the Mother of God Basilica, Monument to Orpheus, and Ptuj Castle.
Note: If you’d like to know more about the festival, please visit their official sites: The Visit Ptuj or Kurentovanje.
©nasasuperhrana.si
What to eat at the Kurentovanje in Ptuj
At Carnival of Ptuj, try Krofi (local donuts)dusted with powdered sugar. Additionally, the fillings include jam or cream, and they are
Prekmurska Gibanica is a classic Slovak dessert dating back to the 19th century. It’s a multi-layered cake made of strudel dough, poppy seeds, raisins, walnuts, and apples. The recipe may vary by region.
In addition to its historical landmarks, Ptuj is renowned for its gastronomy. Some of the city’s top-rated restaurants are Gostilna Ribic, Gostilna Amadeus, muziKafe, Pomaranca, and Gostilna Grabar.
How to get to the Ptuj Kurentovanje
To reach Ptuj from Ljubljana Airport, you can take a train from Ljubljana city center, which takes about 4 hours. Alternatively, take a direct bus from the airport to Ljubljana, then transfer to another bus to reach Ptuj via Maribor. If you prefer driving, take the A1 road from the airport, which takes around 90 minutes.
Note: You can find cheap flights to nearby airports (Graz, Ljubljana, Zagreb) here. If you are looking for affordable public transport prices, you can find them here.
©Photo-Aleksandr-Medvedkov-Dreamstime
Where to stay
There are some hotels in the town. However, during the Kurentovanje carnival, it can get quite full. That’s why we advise you to book your accommodation in advance. Furthermore, we recommend booking a room in the town so you won’t have additional transport costs. And finally, we suggest utilizing Booking.com when booking your room.
The conclusion
We gave you just a slice of the Carnival of Ptuj flavor. The rest is up to you. But now, we leave the words to you. Please share your opinions if you have attended the festival in recent years. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask us in the comments below.
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Feature photo credits: ©fotolangerholc/Kurentovanje
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