Petrovče

Petrovče lies in the south-western part of the Lower Savinja Valley and its advantageous situation means that important routes once passed through here. The old rustic centre developed around the church, while newer settlements extend in all directions. The castle and church were built in the 9th century by Prince Bruno of Moravia. The name Petrovče derives from a plot of land surrounded by a wicker fence belonging to the church. The church of the Mother of God in Petrovče is one of five Marian basilicas in Slovenia and a popular pilgrimage church. In 1844 Emperor Ferdinand I of Austria and his consort the Empress Maria Anna prayed at its altar.

Today the local administrative community of Petrovče covers an area of just under 12 square kilometres and has a population of 2,387 divided among the following settlements: Arja Vas, Dobriša Vas, Drešinja Vas, Mala Pirešica, Novo Celje, Petrovče, Ruše and Zaloška Gorica.

Petrovče is home to a number of active clubs and societies in various spheres: Cultural – Petrovče Cultural Association; Sports – Novak Cycling Club, Petrovče Sports Club, Petrovče Primary School Sports Club, Petrovče Karate Club, Ganymed Equestrian Club; Tourism – Petrovče Tourism Association; Volunteer fire brigades – PGD Arja Vas, PGD Dobriša Vas-Petrovče, PGD Drešinja Vas; Others – DU Petrovče, Youth Club, Deanery Caritas Petrovče.

Petrovče is known throughout Slovenia for events such as Joseph's Fair, the Hop-Growers' Banquet and the Advent Fairs at the Novo Celje Manor.