Day of Remembrance of the Dead

This day in Slovenia is imbued with a particularly trembling feelingAt first it was the day of remembrance of Christian martyrs and saints, later it became customary to commemorate all the dead. At first, the Church celebrated All Saints Day on May 13, but in 835 Pope Gregory IV moved it to November 1. Since then, the holiday began to be established on the territory of Slovenia, because according to local pagan beliefs, the souls of the dead wander in the long nights, i.e. this is the time before the winter solstice. According to Christian beliefs, the soul of the deceased needs prayers to overcome the path to heaven. After World War II, the day was called “Day of the Dead” under the 1989 Holidays Act. and 1991. It was renamed “Day of Remembrance of the Dead.”

This day in Slovenia is imbued with a particularly reverent feeling for the memory of ancestors, for all close and dear people who have passed away.

Slovenes traditionally bring flowers and candles to their graves on this day. Meetings of societies of veterans of the war for independence and the second world war are held.

In churches there are memorial masses.