The Škofja Loka Passion Play is drawing attention to the town and surrounding villages, marking its return after eleven years. Residents are primarily discussing the upcoming performance, the largest outdoor theatrical production to return to the city. “In Europe, we know two types of passion plays – the German part, where everything happens on stage, the Roman part, where the statues are carried around the city, and then we are here, where we carry the live actors around,” explains Jakob Vrhovec, head of the Škofja Loka Passion Play 2026 project.
The Passion Play boasts a significant history, dating back over 300 years. Thirteen scenes were originally written in 1399 by the Capuchin friar Lovrenc Marušič, also known as Romuald of Štandrež. Marušič served as a preacher and procession leader within the Capuchin monastery in Škofja Loka.
The play is notable as the oldest fully preserved dramatic text in Slovenia. It has been staged repeatedly throughout its history, showcasing the enduring tradition of this unique performance.
