Within the framework of the cross-border project MOST (ModraSitula), implemented by Zavod Situla and the Tourist Board of the City of Crikvenica, two interconnected events were successfully carried out in 2025 and 2026 in Novo mesto and Crikvenica. The project was co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Interreg Slovenia–Croatia programme.
The main objective of the project was to strengthen cross-border cooperation and connect the two towns through culture, gastronomy, heritage and tourism. MOST symbolically linked the past and the present, people and regions, while also representing “the most” – the very best that Novo mesto and Crikvenica can offer to visitors.
MOST in Crikvenica (13 September 2025)
The first event within the project took place on 13 September 2025 in Crikvenica, where Novo mesto presented its rich cultural, tourism and culinary offer. The town centre came alive in the spirit of cross-border cooperation, with local producers, artisans, winemakers and providers of traditional Dolenjska flavours showcasing their work to residents and visitors.
The programme also included presentations by cultural associations, the Kres Folklore Group and the Dolenjska Museum, which introduced the situla heritage as an important part of the region’s identity. Visitors enjoyed tastings of local delicacies, explored traditional crafts and experienced a diverse musical and cultural programme that brought the two regions together.
Special emphasis was placed on promotion, with presentations by TIC Novo mesto, Bistro Situla, Hudo Pivo, the Dolenjska Museum, the IMV Museum Collection, artist Gea Gerstenhofer and others. The event was designed as a full-day experience, combining the sea, culture and gastronomy while creating opportunities for relaxed socialising and new collaborations.
MOST in Novo mesto ( 18. April 2026)
The second event took place on 18 April 2026 at the Main Square in Novo mesto, where the town hosted Crikvenica. The event was conceived as a full-day cross-border gathering, offering visitors an insight into the cultural and gastronomic heritage of both environments.
The morning programme began with an official opening, followed by a lively market featuring local providers from Novo mesto and Crikvenica. Visitors had the opportunity to taste wines from both regions, traditional dishes such as batuda and ričet, and learn about the olive-growing tradition of Sveta Lucija from Crikvenica. TIC Novo mesto also participated, presenting the town’s tourism offer.
The cultural programme included performances by the group Trio Rikverc, the Kres Folklore Group and a demonstration of the traditional practice of threshing straw, offering visitors a glimpse into rural heritage. The afternoon continued with the market, a performance by the Pomlad Mixed Choir, a presentation of Crikvenica’s traditional costume and tastings of authentic local desserts. The event concluded with a concert by Klapa sv. Jakov from Jadranovo.
During the break, visitors were able to enjoy local cuisine, visit Novo mesto’s attractions or take a trip to Trška Gora for a wine tasting, further enriching the overall experience of the day.
A project that connets
The MOST project represented more than just a series of events. It was a long-term initiative that strengthened cooperation between the towns, promoted sustainable tourism development and created new connections between people, institutions and communities on both sides of the border.
MOST has thus remained a symbol of a bridge – between cultures, people and experiences that enrich both towns.
