Lovers of traditional Croatian music and all those eager for a unique cultural experience will get their wish this weekend. In the very heart of Gorski kotar, in the picturesque Mrkopalj, a real musical treat is being prepared. On Sunday, July 20, 2025, starting at 8 PM, as part of the ninth edition of the popular ARTfest Mrkopalj, a klapa evening titled "Malo po malo" will be held. This exceptional event, which will take place on an open-air stage in the town center, brings the audience performances by two celebrated klapas – the Ženska and Muška klapa "Kastav". Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a free concert that promises an evening filled with top-notch vocal performances and emotions. This event is an ideal opportunity to spend a pleasant summer evening and discover why Mrkopalj is an increasingly popular destination for nature and culture lovers.

ARTfest Mrkopalj: Nine years of culture in the heart of Gorski kotar

For the ninth consecutive year, ARTfest Mrkopalj has positioned itself as an unmissable summer cultural event in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. Every year, the festival enriches the tourist and cultural offer of the region, attracting visitors with a diverse program that celebrates art in all its forms. From concerts and exhibitions to theater plays and workshops, ARTfest successfully combines tradition and contemporary artistic expressions. Holding such an event in Mrkopalj, a place of rich history and natural beauty, gives it a special charm. The klapa evening "Malo po malo" represents the highlight of this year's festival, bringing the sound of the Mediterranean to a mountain setting and creating a unique musical ambiance. All who decide to visit this concert will also have the opportunity to discover all the charms that a stay in Mrkopalj offers, from hiking to relaxing in untouched nature.

The magic of klapa singing under a starry sky

Klapa singing, as an authentic expression of Croatian musical heritage, is a true gem whose value is recognized on a global level. Inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, it is not just music, but a way of life, an expression of community and deep emotions. Traditionally linked to Dalmatia, klapa singing has its roots in the spontaneous gathering of friends who sang a cappella, without instrumental accompaniment, about love, the sea, the homeland, and everyday life. It is precisely this authentic atmosphere and vocal power that the "Kastav" klapas bring, whose repertoire will include not only classic chants but also modern arrangements of popular Croatian pop music songs, showcasing all the richness and adaptability of this musical genre.

Ženska klapa Kastav: World-renowned guardians of heritage

Ženska klapa Kastav, founded in the spring of 1994, has been nurturing musical heritage with incredible passion and dedication for three decades. Their repertoire includes folk songs from the Croatian Littoral and Istria, but they approach the Dalmatian melos with equal skill. Their journey is filled with an impressive series of performances on the most prestigious stages around the world. With their voices, they have enchanted audiences in Austria, Brazil, France, Greece, Italy, South Africa, Latvia, Hungary, the Netherlands, Germany, New Zealand, Portugal, Russia, the USA, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. The crown of their international success came last year, in 2024, at the 13th World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand. There, in an extremely strong competition, they won a gold medal in the category of folklore and traditional a cappella music, confirming their status as one of the world's best vocal groups. The klapa is also the recipient of a series of domestic awards, including a nomination for the Porin record award in 2016, the annual Award of the City of Kastav in 2015, and multiple awards from the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County for their exceptional contribution to culture.

Muška klapa Kastav: Ambassadors of Croatian song

With almost as much experience, Muška klapa Kastav, founded in June 1992, is a pillar of the Croatian klapa scene. Their work, imbued with a love for tradition, has resulted in a rich career and the status of true ambassadors of Croatian culture in the world. Their musical journeys have taken them to all continents, and the list of countries where they have performed includes Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Italy, South Africa, South Korea, Latvia, Hungary, Malta, Mexico, Germany, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Russia, the USA, Slovakia, Slovenia, Serbia, Spain, and the United Kingdom. They are exceptionally active in terms of recordings, with as many as seven published albums, and their work has been recognized by the profession through three nominations for the most prestigious Croatian record award, the Porin (in 2006, 2011, and 2019). Similar to their female colleagues, Muška klapa Kastav also achieved notable success last year at the World Choir Games in Auckland, where they won a silver medal in the category of folklore and traditional a cappella music. They are recipients of the Award of the City of Kastav in 2003 and five-time winners of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County award.

Saša Matovina: The maestro behind both successes

When speaking of the successes of Ženska and Muška klapa Kastav, it is essential to mention the name of their artistic director, maestro Saša Matovina. He is the creative force and visionary behind their unique sound and international reputation. Leading the Muška klapa since 1994 and the Ženska since 1995, Matovina has, through his many years of dedicated work, expertise, and artistic sensibility, shaped both klapas into world-class vocal ensembles. His ability to blend traditional expression with modern arrangements is key to their recognizability and success with a wide audience. It is under his steady leadership that the klapas will perform the "Malo po malo" program and provide the audience in Mrkopalj with an evening to remember.

A musical rhapsody in the heart of nature

The "Malo po malo" concert on Sunday evening offers a unique opportunity to experience top-quality klapa music in the idyllic ambiance of Gorski kotar. The combination of the powerful and emotional voices of the two award-winning klapas with the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of a Mrkopalj summer evening guarantees an unforgettable experience. The program, which ranges from the roots of traditional song to contemporary hits in klapa arrangements, will satisfy even the most demanding music connoisseurs. Admission to the concert is free, which is an additional invitation for everyone to come and be part of this exceptional cultural event. Do not miss this rare opportunity to hear live the gold and silver voices from the world stage, in the beautiful surroundings offered by a stay and vacation in Mrkopalj. See you in the center of Mrkopalj!