Silent Easter Dance in Metlika: Slovenian Tradition Seeks UNESCO Recognition

Youth dancers in Metlika, Slovenia, are preparing for their annual Easter dance performance, a tradition recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage and currently under consideration for UNESCO World Heritage status. The dance, scheduled for April 6th at the Trg Svobode (Freedom Square) in Metlika, is unique in that it is performed without musical accompaniment.

The tradition, documented for over 200 years, originated as a springtime ritual following a period of fasting. Janez Stopar of the Folklore Group Metlika explained that the dance historically marked the beginning of courtship, with young men selecting partners. “The tradition has great significance for our place, for which there is also written evidence for about 200 years. Since 2018, we have also been recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. But we want this to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as well. The tradition began when, after 40 days of fasting, the boys started choosing girls again, so the whole process of our Easter dance began,” Stopar said.

The performance takes place within the walls of Metlika Castle, a 15th-century structure that now houses a museum and event spaces. The Easter dance itself features formations representing various themes, with the arrival of spring and symbolic courtship rituals – such as a depiction of a rooster fight representing young men vying for attention – playing a central role.

The Folklore Group Metlika reports strong participation from young people, with no concerns about declining interest in the tradition. Lea Gašparič, a young dancer, expressed her enthusiasm: “I’ve been dancing since kindergarten and elementary school, and now I continue because it brings me joy. You feel the world, as my grandfather would say, and you meet recent friends.”

Another young participant, Val Slana, added, “I go to this group because I meet friends there, get to know new people, discover the tradition of our homeland, and because I also enjoy performing.”

The Easter dance will be performed on Easter Monday, April 6th, beginning at 2:30 PM at the Trg Svobode in Metlika. The public is invited to attend.