Petrenj family preserves traditional clay stove craftsmanship in Serbia

The Petrenj family of Sremska Mitrovica is preserving the traditional craft of making ‘kaljeva peći’ (clay stoves), which are seeing a resurgence in popularity ahead of the heating season. Father and son, Igor and Ivan Petrenj, continue a multi-generational legacy passed down from Ivan’s grandfather and father.

The construction of these stoves requires high precision and the use of specific natural materials. The craftsmen use Srem yellow clay as the sole binding agent because it is the only material capable of safely withstanding the extreme temperatures required. They also incorporate domestic tiles between rows of clay to increase the mass of the stove, allowing it to accumulate and emit heat more effectively while protecting the clay from cracking.

By combining traditional techniques with proven natural materials, the Petrenj family provides a durable and efficient heating solution that maintains the authenticity of this historic craft.