Roman Games Ptuj: History in Action

Dober dan!

Step into Ancient History at the Roman Games in Ptuj!

The Roman Games in Ptuj are a unique annual event that brings the rich history of ancient Rome to life in Slovenia’s oldest town. Each year, Ptuj transforms into the Roman city of Poetovio, once a major settlement of the Roman Empire, offering visitors an immersive historical experience.

The festival features gladiator fights, reenactments of Roman military drills, demonstrations of daily life in antiquity, authentic Roman cuisine, and interactive workshops for all ages. It’s an engaging way to explore the town’s Roman heritage while enjoying vibrant entertainment in a historic setting.

The Roman Games also commemorate a significant historical moment: the decisive gathering in Poetovio in 69 AD, when Marcus Antonius Primus rallied generals to support Vespasian as emperor. This event, described by the Roman historian Tacitus in Historia, marks the first recorded mention of Ptuj and highlights its role as a key location in the Roman Empire. At its peak, Poetovio had over 40,000 inhabitants, including 10,000 legionaries, and hosted important imperial institutions such as a mint, customs office, and tax administration.

The next edition of the Roman Games, taking place from August 22 to 24, 2025, promises exciting new additions and experiences. The program includes:

Authentic presentations of everyday life in ancient Rome
A festive parade through Ptuj’s historic city centre
A Roman camp featuring legionaries, gladiators, and barbarian tribes
A children’s camp with fun, educational activities

The Roman Games in Ptuj are not only a celebration of history, but also a vibrant community event that invites everyone to step into the fascinating world of ancient Rome.