Situla FestivalPraznik situl

Praznik situl (Situla Festival) is an annual historical festival in Novo mesto that celebrates the city’s Iron Age (Hallstatt) heritage 1 2. Organized by the Dolenjski Museum and city authorities, it brings Hallstatt-era life to the modern day through reenactments, ancient-craft demonstrations (pottery, glassmaking, metalwork), traditional music, and period cuisine 3 2. Visitors find an immersive open-air market with artisans, storytelling, and live performances that evoke prehistoric Celtic traditions. The event underscores Novo mesto’s identity as the “City of Situlae,” reflecting the region’s rich archaeological legacy and local pride 4 1.

Novo mesto is famous for Bronze Age decorated situlae found in local graves; nearly a quarter of all known Hallstatt situlae come from the area 1. The festival builds on this legacy, highlighting Dolenjska’s role in Central European prehistoric culture. It integrates archaeology into community events, connecting modern residents to their ancient ancestors through hands-on activities in the city center.