Markovci

In the heart of eastern Slovenia, not far from the historic town of Ptuj, lies the Municipality of Markovci – a place where the ancient sound of bells still echoes, chasing away winter and calling forth spring. The home of the traditional Kurent figure, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of humanity, Markovci is not just a place – it is an experience.

Every year, the village comes alive with Fašenk, a carnival of masks, fire, and community that takes visitors back to times when people danced and drummed to summon life. But even outside of carnival time, this hidden gem of the Štajerska region offers something priceless: peace, contact with nature, authentic faces, and living tradition.

Markovci is not a mass tourism destination – and that is exactly what makes it special. No hotels, no large resorts. Instead, you’ll find rural homesteads, the taste of homemade cuisine, the sound of nature and the scent of fresh earth, rafting and horse-drawn carriage rides, walks through the Šturmovci nature park, and cycling along the Ptuj Lake...

With its Fašenk, Markovci is becoming increasingly recognized even beyond Slovenia’s borders – as an honorary guest, it will be featured at the international tourism fair SWISS INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY EXHIBITION (November 1–3, 2025), where it will receive the prestigious Swiss Tourism Awards 2025 in the Heritage Destination category.

Come and visit us. Experience the ancient rhythm that still calls today.