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Roman monument · Ptuj, Podravska
Orpheus Monument
A 2nd‑century Roman tombstone of Pohorje marble, nearly 5 meters tall, on Slovenski trg. The reliefs with the myth of Orpheus gave the monument its name, symbol of Ptuj.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Orpheus Monument
The Orfejev spomenik is a Roman funerary stele almost 5 meters high and about 1.8 meters wide, carved from a single block of white Pohorje marble. It was erected in the 2nd century in memory of Marcus Valerius Verus, who governed the Roman town of Poetovio, and is the largest tombstone found in the former province of Upper Pannonia. It stands on Slovenski trg, Ptuj’s central square, in front of the town tower, likely on the same spot where it was discovered.
The central relief shows Orpheus playing the lyre, surrounded by animals, mourning the loss of Eurydice; for that reason the monument received this name. Other panels show mythological figures, including Endymion, and in the upper corners two lions hold ram heads. The original inscription is nearly worn away.
In the Middle Ages the stele served as a pillory, where the condemned were exposed. It is considered the oldest public monument preserved in its original place in Slovenia and was declared a cultural monument of national importance. Other Roman tombstones and reliefs from Poetovio were embedded in the walls of the adjacent 16th‑century tower.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 10 to 20 minutes, together with the tower and the square.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the side light enhances the reliefs.
How to get there
It is on Slovenski trg, in the center of Ptuj, a few minutes’ walk from the station and the path up to the castle.
Tip
Walk around the town tower to see Roman reliefs embedded in the walls, such as Medusa heads and dolphins.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Orpheus Monument
What is the Orfejev spomenik?
A 2nd-century Roman marble tombstone nearly 5 meters tall, raised in memory of a ruler of the Roman city of Poetovio. It has reliefs of the Orpheus myth.
Why is Ptuj’s monument named after Orpheus?
Because the central relief shows Orpheus playing the lyre surrounded by animals while lamenting the loss of Eurydice.
What was the Orfejev spomenik used for in the Middle Ages?
It served as a pillory where the condemned were exposed.