Facts About Ptuj
- Ptuj is widely recognized as one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was established during the Roman Empire and was known as Poetovio.
- The iconic Ptuj Castle stands proudly atop a hill overlooking the town. It is a well-preserved medieval fortress and one of the most prominent landmarks in Ptuj. The castle now houses the Ptuj Regional Museum, which offers insight into the region’s history and art.
- Pettau, a once-fierce battlefield amidst the Ottoman wars in Europe, endured the devastating scourge of fires in the years 1684, 1705, 1710, and 1744.
- The parish church in the settlement is dedicated to Saint George and belongs to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Maribor.
- Ptuj is famous for its vibrant and lively carnival, known as Kurentovanje. This traditional Slovenian festival attracts visitors from far and wide. Participants don unique sheepskin costumes and masks, particularly the distinctive Kurent masks, as they celebrate with music, dances, and parades.
- Residents of Ptuj are known as Ptujčani in Slovene.
- Ptuj is situated on the banks of the picturesque Drava River. The river offers opportunities for various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and riverside strolls. The scenic beauty of the Drava River adds to the town’s allure.
- The estimated population of Ptuj is 17,972, Since 1945, Ptuj has been populated almost completely by Slovenes.
- The surrounding region of Ptuj is renowned for its viticulture, and the town itself boasts numerous wine cellars and vineyards. Visitors can indulge in wine-tasting sessions and explore the rich winemaking traditions of the area.
- Nature enthusiasts can revel in the splendour of the Ptuj Ormož Regional Park, which encompasses diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, meadows, and vineyards. It provides an ideal setting for hiking, cycling, and observing the local flora and fauna.
- Notable and famous Residenace of Ptuj Tim Gajser; Aljaž Skorjanec; Dejan Zavec; Victorinus of Pettau; Nastja Čeh; Benka Pulko; Miha Remec, among others.
- Ptuj showcases its cultural heritage through its well-preserved architecture, such as the Town Tower, City Theatre, and Dominican Monastery. The town’s historic core is a designated cultural monument, offering visitors a glimpse into its past.
- The Ptuj City Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the town’s history, archaeology, and ethnology. Exhibits include artefacts from various periods, providing insights into Ptuj’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
- Ptuj takes centre stage as the focal point of a vibrant ten-day carnival in the spring, hosting the enchanting celebration known as Kurentovanje or Korantovanje. This ancient Slavic pagan rite, brimming with the spirit of spring and fertility, infuses the town with joyous revelry and cultural exuberance.
- Ptuj is situated near several thermal springs, making it a popular destination for wellness and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, thermal baths, and rejuvenating experiences in the town’s luxurious thermal resorts.
- Ptuj Lake: Located close to Ptuj, Ptuj Lake is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. The lake offers swimming, boating, and picnicking opportunities, allowing visitors to unwind amidst serene surroundings.
- Ptuj found its place at a strategically significant juncture, situated along the banks of the Drava River. This location marked a crucial crossing point along an ancient trade route that linked the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic, paving the way for prehistoric commerce and exchange.
- Ptuj is twinned with Aranđelovac, Serbia; Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia; Burghausen, Germany; Ohrid, North Macedonia; Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire, France; Varaždin, Croatia.
- Pettau is divided into several distinct town quarters, each with its own unique character. These quarters include: Breg–Turnišče; Ljudski Vrt; Jezero; Panorama; Rogoznica; Grajena & Spuhlja.
- The elevation of Ptuj is approximately 256 meters (840 feet) above sea level.
Ptuj City Information
| Ptuj Information | |
| Type | City |
| First mention | AD 69 |
| Town privileges | 1376 |
| Founded by | Vespasian |
| Elevation | 232 m (761 ft) above sea level |
| Official Website | https://visitptuj.eu/en/ |
