In the Holy Week before Easter, people begin decorating eggs using the traditional penganje technique, especially widespread in the Dubrovnik Littoral region and Konavle. Pengana eggs are known for their harmonious and intricate ornaments, as well as written messages and greetings unique to this region. Although the penganje technique may seem complex at first, experienced women from Primorje and Konavle say otherwise— the more eggs one decorates, the more beautiful they become. Raw eggs are decorated with melted beeswax using a needle with a rounded tip, mounted onto a small wooden handle, most often made of laurel. For writing messages, a special tool called a penica is used. In the past, when traditional farmhouse kitchens were common, women would keep a bowl of ashes and embers in their laps to maintain the wax at a steady temperature. Today, the wax is melted on a stove or in a special holder with a small candle, making the process easier. It is said that on Easter, the first pengana egg is given to a beloved person, which is why hearts are one of the most common motifs. Pengana eggs serve as expressions of love and affection—gifts that often revealed secret admirers or hidden feelings, so great care was taken in choosing the recipient.

Red pengana eggs are especially valued, as they symbolize life and nature.