Discover Markovci

Markovci is especially shaped by Fašenk and the Korant tradition. Other attractions include St. Mark’s Church, an interactive Ethno Museum, and the surrounding landscapes. If you are looking for a hotel in Markovci, you can plan your stay around whether you primarily want to learn about local customs or spend time outdoors.

Fašenk and the Korant Tradition

The procession of ethnographic figures in Markovci is called “Fašenk.” It features the Korant alongside local figures such as ploughmen, fairies, Rusa, bears, chickens, Pokači, and the wedding figure of the lance bearer. Dates and programmes vary from year to year. If you are travelling for Fašenk, check the dates and programme in advance.

According to a UNESCO description, the individual house-to-house processions of the Kurents probably began in the second half of the 19th century in Markovci and neighbouring villages. The Kurent or Korant processions are recognised by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. In the attic of the municipal office, the Ethno Museum presents the figure of the Korant interactively, including outside the traditional carnival season. Check the visiting arrangements before your trip.

St. Mark’s Church is the central religious building in the Municipality of Markovci and an important part of its local cultural heritage. Alongside the carnival tradition, it represents another aspect of the local culture.

The Year and the Landscape

A fixed date in the annual calendar is the municipal holiday: Markovci celebrates it every year on 25 April, St. Mark’s Day. Unlike the dates of Fašenk, which vary each year, this date is fixed. Events organised by local sports, cultural, and volunteer fire brigades take place throughout the month, along with a church blessing.

Nearby Šturmovci Landscape Park encompasses floodplain forests, wetlands, and a rich variety of wildlife. The park is suitable for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. A carriage ride through nearby Šturmovci Landscape Park, a protected area, is also part of the Markovci experience; visiting arrangements may vary.

Nearby Lake Ptuj offers a different connection with nature. Two-thirds of its surface area lies within the Municipality of Markovci. More than 230 bird species breed in the lake’s protected shoreline area, including rare and protected species such as the great cormorant, common tern, and black tern. Follow local conservation rules when visiting. Lake Ptuj also has a 13-kilometre circular route suitable for cycling and walking.

Exploring the Region

Red signs on the Drava Bike Route guide cyclists from Ptuj to Markovci and Mihovci pri Veliki Nedelji. As the signage may change, check route conditions before setting off. The municipality’s tourist offer includes organised rafting trips on the Drava and e-bike rental. Check availability and providers before your trip.

The “Along the Path of the Korant” trail passes through the Markovci region and introduces local traditions. A themed Markovci experience concludes with a tasting of local cuisine; participating venues and arrangements may vary. This lets you choose between a cultural focus and activities in the landscape when planning your trip, without combining the different offers into a single programme.

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