The region's identity

The Prlekija lies at the crossroads of three languages—Croatian, German, and Hungarian. The region’s copious landscapes and wondrous contrasts leave the impression of the land mothering all the inhabitants whose juicy dialect reflects their strong connection to the land, and who breathe with the rhythm of their heritage. The Prlekija's strong character has been shaped through the centuries of self-dependency of farmers who defied the odds of general poverty, several wars, Kruc insurgents, and natural disasters, which all has helped shape the locals to stand proud today as resilient, resourceful and humble people. Even today, they are extremely proud of their origins, dialect and wonderful natural tradition, and in the fast-paced modern consumer world, they successfully maintain their original identity and their deep connection and dependence on nature.

Ljutomer, the bossom of Prlekija, has birthed a great number of prominent personages recognized in the fields of science, art, and culture. The most important period of Prlekija's history was between the 2nd half of the 19th century and the end of the 20th century with some key figures, who made an important contribution to spiritual, cultural and political development of Slovenes.

Local intellectuals are considered the harbingers of the Spring of Nation movement on Slovenian soil mainly because of the rally movement, which brought about nation's autonomy and statehood. After this benchmark event, Ljutomer held the torch as an important administrative, political and economic center in the region during the national revival sparked in 1848. The establishment of the first reading room as a sign of the awakening of national consciousness coincided with reaching its peak at the first Slovene national rally in 1868 in Ljutomer, after which the bigger of the two city parks is now named.