In western Slovenia, the villages along the Soča River continue to practice seasonal festivals known as Shrovetide, which predate the Christian era.[1] One of the most popular celebrations is Laufarija. Occurring on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday, this event is meant to celebrate the passing of winter and the coming of spring by trying and convicting Pust, a representation of winter. Each year, a member of the community dons the Pust costume – comprised of straw, moss, and pine branches – and is tried for crimes like harsh weather and lackluster harvests.[2] Following his conviction, Pust is chased out of town and killed by ta grdi (the ugly ones), who wear masked carved of soft lime tree wood that represent devils, while ta lepi (the beautiful ones) go door to door dressed as a young married couple and bless the occupants with prosperity for the coming year.[3]
Works Referenced
Charney, Noah. “How Slovenia’s Monsters Came Back from the Dead.” National Geographic, 16 March 2020, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/experience-shrovetide-like-never-before-western-slovenia
Longley, Norm. The Rough Guide to Slovenia. New York: Rough Guides, 2004.
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[1] Charney.
[2] Longley, 181.
[3] Charney.
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