MARKOVCI
A Small Municipality with the Soul of Ancient Gods
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 the spring. Home to the carnival figure of Korant, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Markovci is not just a place – it’s an experience.
Each year, the Fašenk carnival comes to life – a festival of masks, fire, and community, taking visitors back to a time when people summoned life through dance and rhythm. Yet even beyond the carnival season, this hidden gem of the Štajerska region offers something priceless: peace, connection with nature, genuine faces, and living tradition.
MARKOVCI IS NOT A MASS TOURIST DESTINATION BUT...
that’s precisely what makes it special. No hotels, no large resorts. Instead, you’ll find rustic farmsteads, the taste of homemade cuisine, the sounds of nature and the scent of fresh earth, rafting and horse-drawn carriage rides, walks through the Šturmovci Nature Park, cycling along Lake Ptuj…
With its vibrant Fašenk, Markovci is gaining recognition beyond Slovenia’s borders – as an honorary guest, we will proudly present ourselves at the SWISS INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY EXHIBITION (1–3 November 2025), where we will also receive the prestigious Swiss Tourism Awards 2025 in the Heritage Destination category.
COME VISIT US
Experience the ancient heartbeat that still calls today.