Cultural Ties Strengthened at Montenegro Days in Slovenia

Over three days from October 16 to 18, 2023, Maribor, Slovenia, celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Montenegro. The event, titled “Montenegro Days in Slovenia,” organized by the Montenegro Cultural Society “Komovi,” showcased a vibrant blend of art, music, gastronomy, and friendship, proving that cultural ties transcend borders.

Art and Diplomacy Unite

The celebration commenced with a captivating performance by renowned violinist Oxana Pečeny, who serves as the concertmaster of the Symphony Orchestra of the Slovenian National Theatre in Maribor. Following her performance, Dragan Tufegdžić, Montenegro’s Ambassador to Slovenia, officially opened an art exhibition featuring works by Montenegrin artist Hajdana Kostić Hajdi. During his address, Tufegdžić emphasized the significance of the Montenegrin diaspora and the importance of strengthening cultural bridges between Montenegro and Slovenia.

Srečko Vilar, the Deputy Mayor of Maribor, also attended the event, underscoring the value of cooperation and friendship between the two nations. He highlighted how cultural connections can foster mutual understanding and respect.

Celebrating Culinary and Touristic Heritage

The second day focused on tourism and gastronomy, presenting Montenegro’s potential as a travel destination. Representatives from the National Tourism Organization of Montenegro and local tourism boards from regions such as Gusinje, Cetinje, Rožaje, and Danilovgrad shared insights about their offerings. Attendees were treated to authentic Montenegrin dishes prepared by members of the Women’s Association “Žene Bara,” showcasing the country’s culinary traditions.

The event also featured a friendly football match between teams from the Montenegrin diaspora and veterans of NK Maribor, further promoting community spirit and camaraderie.

The final day included the launch of a special bilingual edition of the magazine “Komuna,” printed in both Montenegrin and Slovenian for the first time. Key speakers included Vojislav Kovač, Honorary Consul of Montenegro in Slovenia, and Denis Martinović, the Acting Director of the Directorate for Diaspora Cooperation at Montenegro’s Ministry for Diaspora. They discussed the importance of this publication in bridging cultural gaps.

Other speakers included Igor Đurović, a journalist of Montenegrin descent from Ljubljana’s “Delo,” and Dr. Peđa Ašanin Gole, a professor at the Faculty of Applied Social Studies in Slovenia. They highlighted the significance of cultural exchange and collaboration.

A Night of Tradition and Music

The central event, titled “An Evening of Tradition, Music, and Community,” took place in a packed Štuk hall, featuring nearly two hours of performances by artists from Montenegro, Slovenia, and the surrounding region. The audience enjoyed stunning acts, including a rendition of Montenegro’s national anthem by Petra Radulović, an opera singer from Vienna, and a heartfelt interpretation of verses by Petar II Petrović Njegoš by Milada Kalezić, a well-known Slovenian actress of Montenegrin heritage.

Additionally, Nora Pavićević, Secretary of the Cultural Society “Komovi” in Maribor, recited verses by the celebrated Slovenian poet France Prešeren, symbolically linking the cultural landscapes of Montenegro and Slovenia. The evening concluded with thunderous applause as various folklore ensembles from Montenegro and the region took the stage, further enriching the experience.

This celebration not only showcased Montenegro’s artistic offerings but also strengthened the bonds between the two nations, emphasizing the power of culture in fostering friendships and understanding.