Minorite Monastery

The Minorite Monastery of St. Peter and St. Paul in Ptuj is one of the oldest and architecturally most important sacred buildings in Slovenia. Situated along the Drava River, on the edge of the old town center, it completes the historical image of Ptuj with its presence.

The monastery was founded around 1239 by the Lords of Ptuj. In the second half of the 13th century, the Minorites built the monastery complex and church, which was considered one of the first Gothic churches in Slovenia. In the 17th century, the entire complex was remodeled in the Baroque style, which is still evident today in the façade, stucco decorations, and statues of its patrons, St. Peter and St. Paul.

During World War II, on January 4, 1945, the church was almost completely destroyed in an Allied bombing raid. After the war, a post office was built on the site, which stood until 2001. It was then demolished, and the construction of a new church began, solemnly consecrated in 2011.

Today, the monastery is not only a religious center but also an important cultural institution. It houses a private music school and a rich monastic library with 5,000 volumes dating back to the 16th century. The monastery also hosts concerts, exhibitions, and various gatherings. It serves as the seat of the Slovenian Minorite Province of St. Joseph and remains a vital part of Ptuj’s cultural and spiritual identity.