WELCOME
In the magical world of Pušča – the hidden gem of Pomurje, where history, tradition, and Roma culture intertwine, creating a unique tourist experience. Join us on an unforgettable journey through the Roma settlement of Pušča, where you will explore the richness of Roma heritage, uncover exciting stories, and immerse yourself in authentic Roma life.
Until 2002, Pušča was a hamlet within the Černelavci Local Community. However, after 2002, it became an independent Local Community and thus equally joined the other ten Local Communities within the City Municipality of Murska Sobota.
This milestone marked a new beginning in the development of the Roma settlement, as rapid progress began in the fields of culture, sports, and tourism activities of the residents, supported by numerous infrastructure projects of the municipality that improved the communal and other necessary infrastructure to enhance the living conditions within the settlement. Throughout its history, numerous associations were formed, working in the fields of culture, sports, development, and tourism, contributing significantly to the development of the settlement and the Roma community in general. It is especially noteworthy to mention the first Roma football club, NK Pušča, which was established in 1958, and the world’s first Roma fire department.
In the past, numerous legends have emerged about the origin of Pušča. One of them tells that the ancestors of Pušča were searching for a place in the world where they could be accepted, understood, and live peacefully with a high quality of life based on their customs. And they chose, they chose Pušča, settled there, and lived in their human and cultural uniqueness with the support of the local community.
Regardless of the developed legends, the fact is that in 1911, Ivan Horvat from Černelavci purchased a plot of land in the area of the former Gorica, now Pušča, for 200 crowns, built a house, and moved there. He had 6 children, with Ana being the firstborn. He planted 6 trees around the plot, oaks and maples – one for each child. Over the years, the trees grew, took deep root, and so did Ivan’s family. Around Ivan’s house, a settlement began to grow, which we now know as Pušča.
Moreover, this Roma settlement amidst fields and greenery represents a unique example of good practice in coexistence and the development of the Roma community, both in Slovenia and throughout Europe.
Today, Pušča is a planet intertwined with rich threads of diversity and cultures that have come together to form a unique fabric of community. Its mission is deeply rooted in shaping a sustainable future that will meet the needs of both current and future generations. Pušča recognizes the importance of harmony among different communities and strives to establish a balance between them and the majority community. Education and upbringing are the pillars on which Pušča builds its future. It promotes innovative approaches to education based on respecting diversity and provides education through examples that enable practical understanding and application of acquired knowledge.
Pušča is not just a place; it is a dynamic and living entity that constantly evolves in accordance with the needs and challenges of its residents. With its sustainable approach and emphasis on collaboration, it bridges the gap between the past and the future, shaping a path that will maintain the balance between humanity and the planet Pušča.
EXPERIENCE THE HIDDEN GEM OF POMURJE
We offer you a unique experience where you can get to know Roma culture, life, and traditions!
- Group Reception at the Pušča Boulevard with a “Roma”
- Welcome Entrance to the Roma settlement and a guided tour of the village
- Meeting with a Roma musician at his home, an aperitif, and a tour of the courtyard with a grinding machine
- Hospitality (Roma goulash, kettle bread, and Roma dessert)
- Musical program during lunch (performance by Romano Glauso in an acoustic setting)
- Greetings and reception by a Roma fortune-teller over coffee by the fire
- Roma Museum (Reception with an aperitif)
- The Pušča Boulevard and Presentation of the History of the Roma Settlement
- Exhibition in the Multipurpose Hall
- Chapel of Black Maria
- Cipijada (Roasting of Pig Skins)
- Entry through the Pušča
- Customs Presentation of History and Culture
If you wish to visit our Roma settlement and experience authentic Roma life, please share your preferences with us through the form below, and we will create a unique experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting memory.