Orpheus Monument

The Orpheus Monument in Ptuj is one of Slovenia’s most remarkable Roman relics and a must-see for history enthusiasts exploring the country’s oldest town. Standing nearly five meters tall in the heart of Slovenski trg (Slovene Square), this imposing limestone tombstone dates back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD, when Ptuj—then known as Poetovio—was a thriving Roman settlement in the province of Upper Pannonia.

The monument is named after the central relief depicting Orpheus, the legendary musician of Greek mythology, mourning his lost love, Eurydice. This evocative scene, along with other mythological motifs carved into the stone, speaks to the artistic skill and cultural influences of ancient Poetovio. Originally erected as the tomb of a prominent town council member—possibly the mayor—the monument later took on a very different role in the Middle Ages, serving as a pillory where criminals were shackled for public punishment. This use left marks and damage on the inscription, adding another layer to its storied past.

Today, the Orpheus Monument is a focal point of Ptuj’s open-air Povoden Museum, which houses the oldest lapidary collection in Slovenia. Surrounded by other antique monuments and the vibrant atmosphere of the old town, the monument invites visitors to pause and reflect on the layers of history that have shaped Ptuj.

There are no set opening hours or admission fees to view the Orpheus Monument, making it an accessible and unforgettable highlight of any visit to Ptuj.