It all began when Caterina, born in Sardinia, moved to France and fell in love with Slavko Novoselić from Habjanovci. In the very heart of Slavonia, the small village of Habjanovci, stands a 121-year-old traditional šokačka (Šokac-style) house whose owner is, believe it or not, a Frenchwoman. And yet, she is local.

Not quite Hollywood, but close

Born in Sardinia, Caterina moved to France at the age of six. Aged 17, she met Slavko Novoselić, the man who would become her husband, and fell in love with his native village of Habjanovci. Fine, it might not all have played out like that — this isn’t Hallmark — but the story warms the heart just the same. 

The Italian-French-Croatian couple frequently visited Slavko’s homeland, especially for the village’s annual church feast day, which was a must-attend event, no matter their obligations or the weather. That was tradition, and they honoured it. In 2006, when Slavko decided to retire to his birthplace, Caterina agreed to embrace the peaceful life in Slavonia. 

Unfortunately, Slavko passed away that same year, but Caterina made a firm decision: “I’m here to stay.” And it wasn’t easy. She knew no one, social networks weren’t quite a thing, and everybody spoke Croatian. Still, our lovely host quickly found her footing and started taking care of an elderly woman “right at the end of the village.” While helping with household chores, Caterina observed, absorbed, learned, and asked questions about village life and its customs. She was particularly drawn to the traditional folk costumes, from their beauty and symbolism to the traditional crafting techniques.

Her curiosity led her to learn weaving on a loom, a skill she now shares with her daughter Andrea, who helps her run the newest addition to the Abljanovci ethno house: the weaving workshop. And to round off the family story, allow us to introduce Mila, Andrea’s daughter, who has inherited a love of Slavonian tradition and proudly wears the folk costumes.

A house reborn through love

The house itself, now a living monument to tradition, entered their lives when Caterina wanted to buy an old horse cart. Since the cart wasn’t for sale, she ended up buying the entire house with the yard it stood in. Already deeply in love with all things šokac, she vowed to restore the home to its former glory.

She spent an entire year restoring everything she could — removing layers of paint by hand, repainting the pillars with the original colours and motifs, refurbishing furniture in the traditional style, and even rebuilding the fireplace that once stood in the main room.

The result is a living museum, built with tireless effort and a soul deeply in love with heritage.

Behind the loom

The house interior is outfitted with original furniture, handwoven textiles, and tools once used in daily life. Each room tells a story, from the kitchen filled with traditional cookware to a weaving room where visitors can observe live demonstrations and even try their hand at the calming rhythm of weaving. As Caterina and Andrea say, it’s an activity that “soothes the body and soul” (at least once you manage to coordinate your hands and feet).

In addition to its permanent display, Ethno House Abljanovci regularly hosts cultural events and festivals. A notable one was the first Summer Ethno Fashion Show in the enchanting courtyard. It brought together local artists and designers who showcased works inspired by traditional motifs, blending the old and the new in a truly special way.

The house also hosts the folklore festival “Abljanovci, my little village,” organized by the local cultural association Ravnica from Habjanovci. The event gathers folklore groups from across the region, celebrating traditional music, dance, and customs in a vibrant program that honours the richness of Slavonian heritage. 

Find and visit them

For more information about upcoming events and workshops, visit the official Facebook page of Etno kuća Abljanovci, where you’ll find the latest updates, photos from past events, and tips on how to plan your visit. Caterina and Andrea are always happy to welcome guests eager to experience the magic of the past and feel the spirit of Slavonian tradition. In their cozy workshop, you can even purchase handwoven clothing and accessories, be it traditional or with a modern twist. 

Address: Kolodvorska 10, 31 223 Habjanovci

Tel.: 395 99 4074 252

Facebook: Etno kuća Abljanovci

Written by: Katarina Anđelković