Although the name "Novo mesto" means "new city" in Slovenian, its history dates back to pre-Christian times. Nestled between vineyard-dotted hills and the bends of the Krka River, this southeastern Slovenian city is home to numerous historical treasures, the most famous of which are the Iron Age Situlae (ancient barrel-like vessels), which are beautifully decorated and often used in feasts, hence the nickname "City of Situlae".
It's rich in history and fascinating views to explore – the old town is surrounded by medieval walls, the main square (Glavni trg), the town hall (Rotovž), and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas (St. Nicholas) with its Tintoretto altarpiece. Landmarks like Nicholas's Cathedral are worth checking out. The Museum of Dolenjska showcases the riches of the thriving Hallstatt era (the first phase of Celtic iron culture), including beautifully decorated Situlae barrel vessels, jewels made of glass beads, amber and bronze. St. Nicholas Cathedral on a hill in the old town. Nicholas's Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and a timeless symbol of Novo Mesto. Another of the city's attractions is the Lenart's Franciscan Church and Monastery, which not only houses the oldest library in New Mesto with around 22,000 books, but also the oldest grammar school in Slovenia.
In addition to these historical gems, the various festivals that Nueva Mesto hosts throughout the year are also important reasons for attracting tourists. The festivals showcase the city's rich cultural offerings, providing visitors with a vibrant experience of music, art, and local traditions. Here are three of the most famous festivals that add to the cultural scene of Nova Mesto.
The Jazzinty International Jazz Festival, an important part of the new Mesto cultural calendar, is in its 24th year. It attracts musicians and jazz lovers from all over the world, transforming the city into a lively hub full of musical charm. The Jazzinty International Jazz Festival has carved out a niche place among the world's finest music destinations with its diverse programming and high-quality performances.
Since its launch in 2021, the Novo Mesto Summer Festival has quickly become the highlight of summer, showcasing the city's vibrant music scene. The festival brings together performances by renowned Slovenian artists, highlighting the dynamic musical spirit of Novo Mesto and its status as a cultural hub. As part of Slovenia's oldest festival, FestMest, which runs from April to August and spans 21 historic towns, the Nova Mesto Summer Festival further enhances the cultural appeal of Nova Mesto.
The Situlae Festival celebrates the ancient history of Neu-Mesto and focuses on early Iron Age life and cuisine. Named after the bronze barrel-shaped vessel Situlae found in the area, the festival includes demonstrations of ancient crafts, cooking workshops, and martial arts performances. Visitors can also experience the mystery and charm of life in the Iron Age with a guided tour of the archaeological site, enjoy a history-themed nightly concert.
With its rich mix of music, history and culture, Neu Mesto is a historic city worth visiting. In addition to stunning architecture and historical landmarks, internationally renowned festivals are an important way to celebrate the city's unique heritage, making it a must-visit destination for cultural and artistic exploration.