by InTrieste
Nozze Carsiche, Karst Weddings, which recreate the most important wedding moments from the 1800s, are back in Monrupino after a 9 year pause.
Karst Weddings are a 5-day event which culminate with actual weddings on Sunday. We interviewed Neža Milič from the Slovenian minority in Carso on the meaning and importance of the Nozze Carsiche.
What are Karst Weddings exactly?
Nozze Carsiche are a very important event for the Slovenian community in Friuli Venezia Giulia. It takes place every two years in Repen (Monrupino-ed.). It’s an actual wedding ceremony for various local couples who decide to celebrate their union in accordance with the 1800’s traditions.
Why are Karst Weddings so important?
Apart from being important for the local people, Nozze Carsiche are of interest to other Carso inhabitants who come to watch and celebrate together with the newlyweds. Thus these days create a sense of community that we are slowly losing here. It’s a tradition that has been cherished by many generations in Carso and everyone takes part in the weddings, financially and physically. Girls take care of the flowers, guys take care of the decorations, women are preparing the very complex traditional wedding attires. All this creates a sense of belonging and community, which is very important for us, especially now.
How can one take part in the Karst Weddings?
First, you need to have traditional wedding clothes made and make sure your hair and make up are the way they need to be. It’s also useful to know the local songs and dances. However, anyone can take part. Usually, the organization chooses the couples who are somehow connected to Repen community.
You got married during Karst Weddings events. How did that make you feel?
A sublime sensation of being part of something much bigger than yourself. Being part of the traditions from the past was truly amazing. Somehow I felt that I was connected to my family roots even more.
Nozze Carsiche take off today, 24 August – 28 August.
