Cvetana Priol was a Slovene musician and mystic who lived in Maribor during the 20th century. Born in 1922, she pursued studies in music in Graz and Ljubljana, later becoming a dedicated educator, composer, and choir director. Throughout her life, she faced chronic illness, which she approached with deep spiritual devotion. Recognized as a servant of God, she is remembered for her profound mystical experiences and her commitment to her faith, which she documented extensively in her personal journals.
Life and work
After studying at music academies in Graz and Ljubljana, Priol taught at the Maribor Secondary Music School from 1956 until her retirement in 1969. She was a multifaceted professional, working as a pianist, composer, and music educator. Her spiritual life was characterized by a sense of total devotion to God, a commitment she first expressed at age 17 while serving in the choir of the Maribor Cathedral.
Spiritual legacy
Priol's mystical reflections were recorded in her diary, titled Darovana. In these writings, she explored her experiences with suffering and her spiritual journey. Her life has been commemorated through a documentary film that received an award at a Christian film festival. A memorial house with a chapel, where she frequently prayed, stands near the foot of Calvary in Maribor.