Turopolje, a region south-east of Zagreb, has a rich and varied past. The history of its people is lovingly preserved in celebrations of folklore and local cuisine. Its capital, Velika Gorica, is the home of the Turopolje Folklore Ensemble, active for more than thirty years now, and numbering over 400 singers, dancers and musicians, including tambour players, an instrument much used in the music of the Zagreb region. They have a collection of wonderful local costumes, which are expertly made in their own workshop.

The ensemble has travelled around the world with its award-winning repertoire, has performed at an audience with the late Pope John Paul II, and been the subject of a half hour BBC documentary. It hosts the annual Turopolje International Festival of Folklore, which took place on 1-3 July this year. The aim of the festival is to present the folk tradition through music and dance to a local and international audience.

Velika Gorica is a town with a lovely centre, including the Turopolje Museum with its folk collection. It’s well worth visiting at any time.