Themed Trails “Along the Path of the Korant”
The idea behind the themed trail “Along the Path of the Korant” is a journey through the Markovci region while discovering its traditions.
It represents a revival of heritage tourism, a potential recognized even abroad. The Municipality of Markovci has, in fact, been selected for the prestigious Swiss Tourism Awards 2025 in the category of Heritage Destination, which will be presented at the SIHE fair in November 2025 in Lugano.
THE KORANT is
an ancient ethnological figure and, according to some sources, Markovci is its birthplace. The earliest written reference dates back to 1829 in the chronicles of the old books of St. Mark’s Church in Markovci. Furthermore, the figure of the Korant – or the Kurent/Korant processions – has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The trail begins with an introduction to the figure of the Korant and other ethnological carnival characters such as orači (ploughmen), kopajnarice, vile (fairies), rusa (a ritual horse figure), medved (bear), piceki (little chicks), pokači (whip crackers), and the wedding character kopjaši (lancers). The Ethno Museum, located in the attic of the Markovci municipal building, in addition to its existing collection of ethnological heritage, also presents the figure of the Korant in an interesting interactive way, offering visitors an immersive experience outside the traditional carnival season. A captivating film about the carnival tradition and all ethnological characters typical of this area will also be shown.
the trail then
continues by bike or on foot along the edge of Ptuj Lake, which could, in fact, be called Markovci Lake since two-thirds of its surface belongs to Markovci. The largest permanent lake in Slovenia is also one of its most attractive. In its protected riparian landscape area, more than 230 bird species nest, including rare and protected species such as the cormorant, common tern, and river tern, attracting birdwatchers from all over Europe.
Next is a horse-drawn carriage ride through the protected landscape park Šturmovci, a sanctuary for many plant and animal species, several of which are on the Red List of rare and endangered species.
The journey continues with rafting or boating on the Drava River on so-called šife rafts. Rafting culture is an important part of the local heritage, with traditional river boats such as the barna or brod and šife, once used by locals to cross the Drava. Recently, an independent association named Društvo Barno was established with the aim of promoting water recreation.
Finally, travelers end the experience with a tasting of delicious local cuisine, choosing from a rich variety of culinary offerings. Today’s visit will take us to Restaurant Palaska, located on the banks of the Drava, at a spot where the traditional rafts – the barna and šife – once regularly crossed the river.
