The central procession of the 19th Olympic Games in Ptuj

On Thursday, the central procession of the 19th Roman Games took place in Ptuj, marking one of the largest ancient heritage events in this part of Europe. The event, which has been held almost two decades, attracted thousands of visitors and around 800 participants dressed in historical costumes. The procession began on the city streets at 11 a.m., followed by further activities at the local market square and in the old town center. According to Andrej Klasinč, head of the organization, approximately 800 Romans will spread throughout the city for several hours, creating a vivid image of an ancient settlement. In the afternoon, the festivities moved to the Roman camp, where numerous activities, especially for children, were planned. In the evening, additional programs were scheduled. The event had already begun earlier in the week with a formal opening ceremony on Friday evening at the Roman camp, where a complete tent complex was set up for participating groups. This was followed by a Roman dinner and the introduction of the collaborating organizations. The Society for Roman History and Culture Poetovio LXIX organized a symposium in collaboration with the University of Alma Mater Europaea, the Regional Museum Ptuj Ormož, and the Historical Archives of Ptuj. This year’s theme focused on archives and archivists within the Roman Empire. Sunday was traditionally dedicated to families and the youngest attendees, featuring workshops and interactive activities. Visitors were accompanied throughout the days by Roman cuisine prepared by the participating groups. The Roman Games are highly international in nature. According to Klasinč, this year's event saw participation from groups in eight countries, including all neighboring nations and from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. He added that over recent years, a informal network of cities from the former Roman Empire has formed, enabling rapid connections and cooperation, which is reflected in the quality of the event. The Roman Games have become a significant cultural attraction, drawing both locals and tourists. The event showcases the rich history and traditions of the Roman era through elaborate costumes, performances, and educational activities. Local businesses and volunteers play a crucial role in organizing and maintaining the event, contributing to its success each year. The presence of international participants highlights the growing interest in preserving and celebrating ancient heritage across borders. The event also serves as a platform for academic and cultural exchange. The symposium and other educational components provide opportunities for scholars and enthusiasts to share knowledge and insights. The involvement of institutions such as the University of Alma Mater Europaea and the Regional Museum Ptuj Ormož underscores the collaborative effort required to bring such a large-scale event to life. These partnerships ensure that the Roman Games remain relevant and engaging for diverse audiences. Looking ahead, organizers expect continued growth and increased participation in future editions of the event. The formation of the informal network among cities from the former Roman Empire suggests a promising trend for sustained collaboration and shared cultural initiatives. As the Roman Games continue to evolve, they remain a vital celebration of history, culture, and community spirit in Ptuj.