Information
Landmark: Ptuj Orpheus MonumentCity: Ptuj
Country: Slovenia
Continent: Europe
Ptuj Orpheus Monument, Ptuj, Slovenia, Europe
Overview
In Ptuj, Slovenia, the Orpheus Monument stands as a remarkable piece of ancient Roman history, its weathered stone catching the afternoon sun, and it remains one of the town’s most iconic landmarks.In the heart of the Town Square (Mestni trg), this weathered stone monolith stands as a vivid link to Poetovio, the Roman settlement that once thrived where Ptuj now rises.In Roman times, Ptuj-then called Poetovio-was a lively provincial hub, alive with trade, soldiers, and culture.In the 2nd century CE, the Orpheus Monument rose here, honoring Marcus Valerius Verus, a governor whose deeds merited a public memorial.Carved from white marble and standing about five meters tall, the weathered stone still shows Orpheus with his lyre, animals gathered as if listening to the music.Inscriptions list Verus’s name, titles, and accomplishments.Centuries later, the Middle Ages turned the monument into a pillory; iron chains bit into its surface, and their marks remain.Today, it’s one of Slovenia’s oldest Roman monuments, a proud symbol of Ptuj’s unbroken story from empire to modern day.You’ll find it in the heart of Town Square, steps from Ptuj Castle, City Tower, and the Drava River, free to visit year-round with plaques that share its history.With its mythic carvings, intriguing inscriptions, and centuries of stories etched in stone, it’s a place history and archaeology lovers can’t miss.
