Traditionally a part of the region of Styria, the little town of Ptuj lies in northeastern Slovenia, and it just so happens to have one particularly grand claim to fame; Ptuj is the oldest city in the country. There is evidence of settlements here as far back as the Stone Age, and take it from us that was a very long time ago. The first written mention of the town comes in the year 69AD, when Vespasian ascended to the roll of Roman Emperor. Obviously the history of Ptuj is long and varied, incorporating every element of outside influence that has hit the entire region.
A European Capital of Culture in 2012, Spring sees the arrival of the Kurent Carnival, a ten-day fun-packed carnival in honour of a supposed ancient god of hedonism, and strange sheepskin clad figures dominate the town. The largest artificial lake in Slovenia also sits nearby. The area is also full of churches, castles, sporting activities, monuments, spas and much more, making Ptuj an excellent destination in every right. It isn’t every day you get to visit the oldest city in the country after all.