PHOTOS: 200-year-old eastern Croatian tradition revived

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Tenja, the largest suburban settlement of the eastern Croatian city of Osijek, came alive last weekend with the vibrant and historic “Pokladno jahanje” tradition.

This event, now in its 19th consecutive year, resurrects a tradition that dates back over two centuries, rooted in the customs of the border guards of the region.

Organised by the cultural and artistic society KUD “Josip Šošić” with the patronage of the City of Osijek, this year’s Carnival Riding attracted around 40 riders from across Slavonia.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

They were warmly welcomed by approximately 100 families in Tenja, spread across four designated “stations.” The heart of the festivities was on V. Hengla Street, where several hundred visitors gathered to cheer on the riders and partake in the celebrations.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Osijek’s mayor, Ivan Radić, graced the event with his presence and emphasised its significance for the city’s tourism.

“We see satisfied hosts and numerous guests from all over Croatia, similar to our other supported event, ‘Slavonijo, u jesen si zlatna,’ which has become a manifestation of special importance for the city,” said Mayor Radić.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

He highlighted how such events contribute to Osijek’s growing tourist numbers by attracting visitors from across the country.

Mayor Radić also took the opportunity to showcase the city’s commitment to Tenja’s development.

“We are proud of the kindergarten we built in Tenja for 109 children, worth two million euros. Additionally, we constructed a residential building with 68 apartments, offering our citizens rentals at below-market rates. Over the past 3.5 years, we have renovated roads and pavements to the tune of 1.2 million euros and refurbished the small football pitch,” he stated.

Looking to the future, the mayor announced several upcoming projects.