slovenia Cities of culture www.slovenia.info
Over the bridge for a morning coffee by the river. Then around the market stalls. Along the medieval streets for a wander up to the castle. Just a few steps to the museum. Descending to subterranean mysteries. Returning to the lively city for a chosen event. In the morning a trip to see natural features. Slovenia is also green in the city.
Travel from one special city to another! The old Slovenian towns and cities, proud of their special qualities, are linked together in the Association of Historical Cities of Slovenia. These cities, easily accessible to each other, possess an architectural heritage indicating a diversity of culture from prehistory through the Middle Ages to the Baroque and the present day. A full third of Slovenia’s cities are protected as monuments. The cities in the Association work to ensure the preservation and revival of their special features and to provide an abundance of events, every day of the year. So why just visit one? In Slovenia you can notch up a whole range of urban experiences in a short time.
The old Slovenian towns and cities, proud of their special qualities, are linked together in the Association of Historical Cities of Slovenia.
04___ Embraced by green Slovenia
16___ Kranj
28___ Radovljica
Come and take a closer look
High fashion in ancient jewellery
A walled town
CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION ON THE MAP
18___ Ljubljana
A town of flowers and wine
08___ Celje
20___ Maribor
The town of Princes and Counts
Colour your day
10___ Idrija
City of situLAE
06___ Slovenia at first glance
Lace and mercury 12___ Kamnik
A town embraced by mountains 14___ Koper
The city of the Sun
Slovenia’s Capital
22___ Novo mesto 24___ Piran
Tartini’s town 26___ Ptuj
The treasure-house OF MILLENNIA
30___ Slovenske Konjice 32___ Škofja Loka
The town of the Passion 34___ Tržič
The Venice of Gorenjska 36___ Town to town
Choose your own programme 44___ Providers
of Historical Cities of Slovenia
4
9 HOTTEST FACTS Come and take a closer look.
URBAN URBANE The architecture of the famed Plečnik spread all over the capital city of Ljubljana.
THE WISHING BELL Fascinating Lake Bled with its island, where you can ring the bell at the church and make a wish.
UNDERGROUND, OVERGROUND The unique Karst landscape stretches over approximately 500 square kilometres.
MYSTIC MEDITERRANEAN The famous veduta of Piran, this medieval pearl, gives a memorable seaside view.
DEEP FOREST The magical Kočevje virgin forest, our preserved natural heritage.
GOOD WATER Numerous thermal-water springs reaching the surface at 32-73˚C are one of the greatest Slovenian treasures.
GREAT-GREAT-GRANDVINE The oldest vine in the world, the 400-year-old vine in Maribor.
ALPINE DANCE MUSIC The Avsenik Brothers established a new kind of folk music by combining piano accordion, trumpet, clarinet, bass and guitar.
HOT LINKS General: www.slovenia.info/lovebooking www.slovenia.info/lovemap www.slovenia.info/loveevents www.slovenia.info/loveshop www.slovenia.info/lovepublications www.slovenia.info/lovegreen Business: www.slovenia.info/loveboard www.slovenia.info/lovepress www.slovenia.info/lovephoto
CULT CULTURE The creative crossroads of the European Alps, the Mediterranean and the Pannonian Plain.
Embraced by green Slovenia ____ 5
Embraced by green Slovenia With their heritage, their legends and their modern pulse, Slovenia’s towns and cities are tied in surprising ways to their environments, so each one is very different. Open your eyes. Glimpses of prehistory in archaeological sites, Roman times and ancient roads, the Middle Ages behind castle and town walls, Romanesque and Gothic churches, the Renaissance and Baroque on facades, art nouveau in different building styles, the originality of famous architects – a diversity of periods sets the scene for unforgettable experiences in Slovenia’s cities. Experience culture and nature at the same time. Numerous Slovenian towns and cities enjoy a surprisingly modern cultural scene. They host cosmopolitan festivals and tie presentations to traditional events. The precious items in the museums and galleries point the way to the technical and natural heritage in the city and its surroundings. Wherever you are, you will be close to nature parks, magnificent forests, growing areas for endemic plants and ancient vineyards. Through their inseparable ties to the surrounding land, what are at first glance little Slovenian towns offer quite grand experiences of culture and nature at the same time. So natural, so alive, so permanent! Go local. Being green means experiencing what is local! This also means tasting what is local: in Slovenia’s cities and surrounding areas you can discover a wealth of traditional dishes made from naturally produced food. The fantastic culinary, craft and other traditions spice up countless local festivals and fairs in many of Slovenia’s cities and towns! Be green. Discover Slovenia’s cities in a green way: they are just the right size for exploring on foot or by bike. Along the way, refresh yourself with the tap water – it is good to drink throughout Slovenia. Unwind in the embrace of the parks and forests – Slovenia is one of the most forested countries in Europe. You can depend on safety and easy access. Choose your city and explore it at any time of day or night. Slovenia is known as a safe country, where you can wander around at any time without fear. Experience more: Slovenia’s advantage is that everything in it is easily accessible. From any town or city you can get to green surroundings in just a few minutes walk, and it is a short drive from one city to the next. In just a few days you can experience more cities in Slovenia than anywhere else. Head out on a thematic exploration, or just travel around Slovenia at will. It’s fun!
national border
white-water activities
international border crossing
Triglav National Park
main road
regional park
panoramic railway, museum train
Slovenian Mountain Trail
international airport
European Long-Distance Walking Path E-6, E-7
sports airfield
church
gondola cable car
monastery
tourist information
castle
port, marina
museum, gallery
winter sports centre
natural sight of interest
spa
archaeological monument
casino
technical monument, mine
conference facilities
cultural monuments, visit recommended
golf course
interesting architectural complex
show cave
world heritage monument – UNESCO
winegrowing areas
geometrical centre of Slovenia
EDEN - European Destination of Excellence
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Slovenia, tourist map, 1 : 630 000 - 2009, 1st edition / Published by: Slovenian Tourist Board / Design and editing: Primož Kete, Dr Branko Rojc / Cartographic processing, realisation and page layout: Geodetski inštitut Slovenije, Jamova 2, Ljubljana, Slovenia / Sources: Tourist map of Slovenia 1 : 500 000, (2008); data from the Geodetski inštitut Slovenije and data from the Slovenian Tourist Board; Cultural monuments selected by Gojko Zupan; natural sights of interest selected by Dr Peter Skoberne./ All rights reserved. Reproduction or modifi cation of the map, in whole or in part, without the permission of the Geodetski inštitut Slovenije, is strictly prohibited.
CELJE The town of
Princes and Counts
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Institute of Cultural Events and Tourism Celeia Celje TIC Celje Krekov trg 3, SI-3000 Celje T: +386 (0)3 428 79 36 TIC Stari grad T: +386 (0)3 544 36 90 E: tic@celje.si www.celeia.info
GREEN: RESPONSIBLE WASTE MANAGEMENT Celje is a city of environmental projects. In recent years it has built a large-capacity treatment facility and a state-of-the-art waste handling centre. Both green points of the city are open for tours by private groups.
Themed activities at the Old Castle Celje
Romantic streets in the old city centre, green hideaways for discreet conversations in the city park, imposing architecture showing the diversity of the city’s history, the colourfulness of the present day and their links revealed by the museums, galleries and theatre – all this awaits right in the city centre. A diversity of experiences in a small area is what gives Celje, the city of princes, its special charm. In Celje everything is just a few steps away.
SECRETS OF CELJE’S OLD CASTLE The Old Castle (Stari Grad) of Celje is supposed to have been connected to the city and surroundings via four tunnels. The first, which led past the walls, was supposedly high enough to ride through, without the horseman having to duck at any point. The second tunnel led to a tower that was part of the city walls, and the third led right to the centre of the city, while the fourth, the biggest of all, supposedly ran under the hill by the Savinja River on which the castle once stood.
Celje – Maribor 51 km Celje – Ljubljana 79 km Celje – Bled 129 km Celje – Portorož 198 km Celje – Graz (Avstrija) 110 km Recommended public transport:
CELJE
The town of Princes and Counts ____ 9
IMPOSING CITY OF PRINCES
The Celje Hall
The Roman road
Celje was home to one of the leading medieval families in Europe, so its main features of interest are linked to the Celje princes. Come and see: the Old Castle Celje – with guided experiences of recreated castle tales of love, jealousy, marriages, chivalry and wars; Princes` Court – a luxurious city residence of the House of Celje dating from the 15th century, once surrounded by walls and moats, now with an archaeological basement under the mansion displaying the remains of Roman Celeia; the Water Tower – a remnant of the city walls which the people of Celje started building after it won town rights; the Chapel of the Sorrowful Mother of God – with its Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows – a late 14th century chapel featuring a Gothic stone Pietà; Church of the Assumption – with its family vault of the Celje princes; People `s Savings and Loans Bank – one of the finest city buildings, constructed to the design of the famous architect Jože Plečnik; National Hall – built at the end of the 19th century as a cultural and political gathering place for Slovenians in Celje; Celje Hall – built as a centre for the Celje Germans as a counterweight to the Slovenian Narodni Dom.
UNIQUE MUSEUMS
This city of princely history painstakingly preserves its valuables, and is creating new experiences for future generations. Visit: the Regional Museum – in the Stara Grofija (Old Counts’ Mansion), with its famous Celje ceiling, the most outstanding Slovenian painting from the period between the Renaissance and the Baroque, showcasing development from prehistory to the beginning of the 20th century; the Museum of Recent History – which presents the cultural heritage of the region from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day; Herman’s Den Children’s Museum – the only children’s museum in Slovenia, operating in part of the Celje Museum of Recent History. The glass photo studio of Josip Pelikan – a 19th century studio, is among the best preserved in Europe; Likovni Salon Celje Gallery – the work of individual Slovenian and foreign artists; Celje Gallery of Contemporary Art – an exhibition of studies by individual artists whose work over a long period has contributed significantly to the development of Slovenian fine art; Račka Gallery of Erotic Art – the only Slovenian gallery of the erotic, intended for art dealing in one way or another with erotic themes.
The Medieval Festival
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
CITY EXPERIENCES Check out events at www.celeia.info. Come and see the traditional seasonal events. Carnival procession – the Shrovetide or Mardi Gras festival sees the city taken over by parades of costumed characters and features the ritual burial of Pust. Summer in Celje – the city of princes – from June to August there are hundreds of musical, stage, dance, art and film events. Medieval event on the Old Castle Celje – portrayals of the medieval way of life; last Friday and Saturday in August. Countryside in the city – in June and October there are presentations of organic, tourist and other farms and their products. Celje – The city of fairy tales – December in the holiday-decorated city is irresistible with its fairy-tale land and children’s heroes, concerts, the Christmas and New Year fair and more.
THROUGH TIME – TO WELLBEING!
Experience the medieval traditions with programmes such as the Povitezitev (election of knights), the knights’ day at the Old Castle Celje, or the Medieval Feast with its special cuisine. You can even rent out the castle, and your day can be spiced up with fire eaters and courses in swordfighting and chivalric pursuits. There are ample reasons to extend your stay in the city into a holiday, both in the city and its surroundings: Celjska koča – a hotel offering wellness services at 650 m elevation – can be your starting point for recreation in nature; Thermal spas – Celje is surrounded by spas and wellness centres such as Thermana Laško, Terme Dobrna, Terme Zreče, Terme Olimia, Rimske Terme and the Rogaška Slatina health centre. They are all close to Celje. Tourist farms – around Celje there are more than 30 hospitable tourist farms. Including close to Šmartinsko lake (Šmartinsko jezero), one of the biggest lakes in Slovenia. Fairy-tale Celje
IDRIJA Lace and mercury
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TIC Idrija Vodnikova 3, SI-5280 Idrija T: +386 (0)5 374 39 16 F: +386 (0)5 374 39 15 E: ticidrija@icra.si www.idrija-turizem.si
GREEN: ALPINE TOWN OF 2011 Idrija holds the honorary title of Alpine town of 2011, whereby it is committed to sustainable development and the harmonious coexistence of the technical and cultural heritage with the natural environment. The Zgornja Idrijca Nature Park is part of the European network Natura 2000; the Scopoli Memorial Garden in the park draws attention to the centuries of prized botanical features in this area.
Mercury under the Earth’s surface, lace from the lacemakers’ pads, žlikrofi (ravioli) from local kitchens – Idrija is a city of exceptional cultural heritage. The oldest mining town in Slovenia is famed for having the second biggest mercury mine in the world, and centuries ago it lured explorers and travellers from all over Europe and left on the town unique monuments to the technological heritage tied to the water resources and other special features of the area.
PAIL OF QUICKSILVER The mysterious ‘Wild Lake’
In Idrija you will hear the tale of the pail-maker who dunked his pails in the water, but then could not lift them out. Indeed they had supposedly filled up with such a density of the liquid metal that even a piece of iron was floating in it like a cork. He gathered up the mercury, which then lured increasing numbers of people to the otherwise empty basin in the land. In the place where the pail-maker caught his mercury stands the Church of the Holy Trinity.
Idrija – Ljubljana 57 km Idrija – Koper 121 km Idrija – Škofja Loka 38 km Idrija – Tolmin 45 km Recommended public transport:
IDRIJA
Lace and mercury ____ 11
MARKED BY MINING
Gewerkenegg Castle
You can get better acquainted with this town of mercury, which tells its story in the museum at the castle of Gewerkenegg, the former administrative building of the Idrija mine from the 16th century, this town of lace, where lacemaking skills are cultivated in the Lacemaking School, by visiting its special features: Divje jezero (Wild Lake) – the first Slovenian museum in nature, with the shortest Slovenian surface river and exceptional flora and fauna in the surroundings; kamšt – the pit water pump with its largest preserved wooden drive wheel in Europe; klavže – special watercourse barriers for floating timber, also called the Slovenian pyramids; the Frančiška shaft – the oldest preserved structure of the Idrija mine, opened up back in 1792, with its exhibition of mining machines and equipment; Antonijev rov – a pit gallery arranged for visitors in the oldest part of the mine, with an entrance excavation dating back to 1500; Church of the Holy Trinity – originally a wooden chapel on the site of the legendary first extraction of mercury, it has been authentically restored; miner’s house – this residential building from the 18th century is an example of the dwellings typical of the Idrija mining community.
VIEWS THROUGH THE CENTURIES
Discover the 500 years of mining and lacemaking history and the precious millennia of nature. Visit: Idrija Municipal Museum – Gewerkenegg Castle houses a permanent exhibition on the 500-year history of mercury mining and the town, a geological collection with several thousand specimens of rock, fossils, ores and minerals and a collection of Idrija lacemaking; The International Centre of Idrija Lace – the ground floor of the Lacemaking School features an exhibition of lace and a documentary film on the history of lacemaking in Idrija. Check out the town in other ways, too! Visit, taste and experience: Idrija žlikrofi (ravioli) – at various catering establishments in Idrija; M Aquarium – the newest public aquarium in Slovenia, with an amazing diversity of life; the War Museum – for everyone interested in the history of war in the previous century.
Stained-glass window in the Holy Trinity church
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
FROM TRADITION TO ALTERNATIVE
EXPERIENCE IDRIJA
After descending the 116 steps into the Antonijev Rov gallery and its special mining experience, after touring the collections at Gewerkenegg Castle, which has won the prize for the best European museum of the technical and industrial heritage, after tasting Idrija žlikrofi, you can wander off to the Zgornja Idrijca Nature Park and the Idrija surroundings.
Check out the events in Idrija at www. idrija-turizem.si. Events over the year not to be missed: the international Festival of Idrija Lace – third weekend in June entire town is given over to lacemaking; the Pust carnival in Idrija – Graparski karneval – on Shrove Tuesday and the Saturday the square of Mestni Trg is taken over by costumed characters; Feast of the Assumption – Prfarski štrukljevec pie – on 15 August the pilgrims and other visitors gather at the chapel of the Virgin on the Rock; this is followed by feasting on local pies; the international ALTER ART festival – a showcase in August of alternative youth culture, with concerts by groups from Slovenia and abroad, art and photographic exhibitions, dance performances and literary evenings; the international TANGO festival – a July event featuring Slovenian and foreign tango musicians, with new performance subcategories each year.
The interpretive science trail of Rake – a trail along the Rake canal – by
water which for centuries has driven the kamšt and its 13.6 m drive wheel, leads to the Zgornja Idrijca Nature Park with its rare plant species, which have drawn world famous botanists here, and then to the lake of Divje Jezero.
The heritage of the Second World War – at Vojsko there are the partisan
printing press Tiskarna Slovenija and its collections, the partisan cemetery of Vojščica and the sign for the Pavla hospital.
Klavže – visit the klavže barriers, the socalled Slovenian pyramids, water barriers in the valleys of the Idrijca, Belca and Kanomljica rivers. The Črni Vrh and Ledina plateaux – unwind in nature, with opportunities for cycling and hiking. National lacemaking competition – the Idrija Lace Festival
mountains
KAMNIK A town embraced by
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Agencija za razvoj turizma in podjetništva v občini Kamnik Glavni trg 2, SI-1241 Kamnik T: +386 (0)1 831 82 50 F: +386 (0)1 831 81 92 E: tic@kamnik-tourism.si www.kamnik-tourism.si
GREEN: THERMAL SPA WITH THE ECO-DAISY Terme Snovik is the first recipient of the EU’s Eco-daisy emblem of environment-friendly tourist accommodation in Slovenia.The emblem is proof of the efforts towards minimal burdening of the environment, efficient use of energy and other natural resources and also of course of its range of organic food. E U R O P
TREASURE IN MALI GRAD
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Kamnik is a town of countless faces. Here you are woken by birds singing, by the sun from behind the Old Castle, and the light on the mountains. It is a town with a tradition, history, a rich heritage and at the same time a town surrounded by the mighty Kamnik mountains, Velika Planina and Bergant mountain. The name Kamnik derives from kamen, meaning stone, evident in numerous monuments and in nature. Kamnik is a town where people enjoy life, and visitors like coming back to the embrace of the mountains.
L C O E L A B
Velika Planina
Long ago, three brothers became priests. The townsfolk wanted to build them a church with three chapels, but they lacked money. They begged the rich Countess Veronika for help. Enraged, the miserly countess said she would rather turn into a snake than contribute gold for the building. She did indeed turn into a monster – half woman and half snake. She is still awaiting redemption together with her treasure in the ruins of Mali Grad (Small Castle).
Kamnik – Ljubljana 22 km Kamnik – Bled 48 km Kamnik – letališče J.P. Ljubljana 10 km Kamnik – Koper 128 km Recommended public transport:
KAMNIK
A town embraced by mountains ____ 13
CASTLE IMAGES
The Franciscan monastery
Mali Grad
The Budnar Museum House
The town beneath the ruins of two castle complexes invites you to explore it. Come and see: Mali grad – the high point of the town with a two-storey Romanesque chapel and crypt that is unique in Slovenia. The castle complex and chapel date back to the 11th century; Stari Grad (Old Castle) – the ruins of the castle on Bergant mountain, from which there is a wonderful view of the town and surroundings; the Franciscan monastery – rebuilt a number of times since its beginnings in the 15th century; it houses a library with incunabulas and Dalmatin’s Slovenian translation of the Bible and Pentateuch; there is also a Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre, designed by the famous architect Jože Plečnik; Šutna – a picturesque street with a medieval terrace of houses; the area is restricted to pedestrians and is marked with memorial tablets to important Kamnik residents; the convent at Mekinje – in the convent, which has stood in this place for more than 700 years, you can now learn about the life of the Ursuline sisters. At Easter there is a famous procession with a clothed statue of the Virgin; Sveti Miklavž nad Tuhinjem – on the hill called Gora stands the Gothic Chapel of St. Nicholas with its free-standing bell tower and anti-Turkish defensive wall and tower. Nearby it is worth visiting the parsonage with its open-fire kitchen and tiny rooms.
HERITAGE ON DISPLAY
A special attitude to the past can be seen in the unique municipal museums and galleries: Kamnik Intermunicipal Museum – Zaprice Castle offers permanent and temporary exhibitions emphasising the rich cultural heritage of Kamnik; Miha Maleš Gallery – the works of the Kamnik painter and artist Miha Maleš in the vaulted rooms of a town house; Sadnikar Museum – the first private museum collection in Slovenia, with numerous objects ranging from medieval weapons to old porcelain, from secular and Church items to Persian rugs; Budnar Museum House – a unique living museum in the village of Zgornje Palovče above Kamnik, arranged in one of the oldest homes in the area. With its open-fire “black kitchen”, tiny rustic dwelling room and other features, it preserves the former way of life in the village.
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL Check out events in the town at www.kamnik-tourism.si. These deserve special attention: Veronika’s Festival – May workshops for youngsters in the picturesque street of Šutna; Medieval Days – on the second weekend in June, the old town centre is enlivened by countesses and counts, knights and beggars and other medieval figures; Kamfest – for a full 14 days in August there is a series of cultural events on Mali Grad hill; Folk Dress Days – traditional days of clothing heritage on the second weekend of September; Veronika’s race – on the second Saturday in October, the streets of the old town centre change into a running track; open-air ice skating – in the winter months in the square of Glavni Trg, happy skaters flock to the ice.
RELAXING IN NATURE
Kamnik is a jumping off point for exploring the Kamnik Alps and the valley of the Kamniška Bistrica river with their numerous natural and cultural features. Try these excursions:
Velika planina – you can set off into the heart of the green Kamnik Alps by cable car or on foot; the Alpine pastures are home to one of the rare preserved dairy herder settlements in Europe; Terme Snovik – relaxation in a world of thermal pleasures is offered by the highest-lying spa in Slovenia; the healing grove of Zdravilni Gaj Tunjice – at arranged energy centres there are stone wells of energy and wellbeing;
Zgornje Palovče – a village where you can breathe in the aroma of fresh baked bread from a “black kitchen”; Volčji Potok Arboretum – a stroll through the green park with its thousands of plant species is especially attractive when the innumerable tulips are blooming.
National Costume Day
Koper The city of the Sun
14
TIC Koper Titov trg 3, SI-6000 Koper T: +386 (0)5 664 64 03 F: +386 (0)5 664 64 06 E: tic@koper.si www.koper.si FB: Istra-Slovenia
GREEN: LARGEST BRACKISH WETLAND IN SLOVENIA When you are in Koper, visit the nature reserve of Škocjanski Zatok, the biggest brackish wetland in Slovenia. Here you can discover rare and endangered plant and animal species. Please respect the area’s biodiversity! In addition to more than 220 species of birds, you can also observe two Camargue horses and boškarin, or Istrian ox. You can get to the reserve on foot or by bicycle.
Škocjanski Zatok Nature Reserve
This Mediterranean city, bounded by the sea and hills, displays its rich, thousand-year history at every step. A walk through the old city centre is a walk through the past filled with sunshine. The mysterious Koper countryside in the land of Refošk wine offers a unique range of food and wine. Its numerous traditional events offer the true pleasures of Istria. The rays of the present offer new experiences in this city by the sea.
PRAETORIAN PALACE AND THE LION’S MOUTH The might of Koper is symbolised by the Praetorian Palace, and tales of the past are concealed in the little peculiarities of the city. One of these is the Lion’s Mouth, at one end of Čevljarska Street close to the Praetorian Palace. The “Bocca del Leone”, as it was called in Venetian times, was designed for anonymous tip-offs about tobacco and salt smugglers, as well as for bribing gentlemen of the municipal authority.
Koper – Trst (Italija) 22 km Koper – Benetke (Italija) 181 km Koper – Ljubljana 109 km Koper – Piran 16 km Koper – Maribor 231 km Recommended public transport: KOPER
The city of the Sun ____ 15
FEATURES OF KOPER SQUARES
Prešeren Square with the Da Ponte Fountain
Tito Square
As you stroll from square to square, open your eyes to the fabulous architecture! Titov trg and the Praetorian Palace – the most priceless architectural monument in the city is this palace, which was also the city hall during the period of the Venetian Republic; close by are the Loža (Loggia), once a debating venue for burghers (today a café), the Cathedral of the Assumption in its Gothic and renaissance style, the city tower – a special viewing point – and the Foresteria and Armeria. Prešernov Trg and the Da Ponte well – close to the Baroque well dating from 1666 is the Muda Gate, the former city gate, for many centuries the only land entrance to the city, and the ruins of the city wall. Just a step away, in Župančič Street, the courtyard of the Carli Palace is dominated by the Gothic bucket well, which is one of the first dated and preserved wells in Slovenia. Carpacciov Trg and Carpaccio House – a Gothic building from the 15th century – was the residence of the Venetian painter Benedetto Carpaccio; close by is the Taverna, the former Venetian salt warehouse, today a space for events.
SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE PAST
What inspired all the art in little galleries across the city? Perhaps the ancient stories, which you can sense in the museums: Koper Regional Museum – in the Belgramoni Palace – since 1911 the Tacco Museum has showcased precious archaeological, artistic and historical items and a collection of museum objects up to the 19th century; the ethnological collection at the Regional Museum – the collection in the Venetian Gothic house from the 14th century shows the material and spiritual culture of Slovenian Istria, Brkini, Čičarija and the upper Karst since the 17th century.
View of Koper
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
THE DIFFERENT WORLD OF ISTRIA The city offers abundant opportunities for getting to know the traditional features of Istria. Follow the announcements at www.koper.si and don’t miss events such as: Istria Carnival – the February Shrovetide procession in sight of the sea; Homo na plac – every Sunday in July and August, trading in the old way; Sweet Istria – on the fourth weekend in September, the stalls are irresistible with their traditional Istrian, Slovenian and other sweet treats; Farming Days of Slovenian Istria – this October event offers tasting of Istrian and Primorska wines, olive oil and other natural products.
WANDERING TO THE SUNSET
Koper is a jumping off point for exploring Istria. Your day can begin in the morning over a coffee in the city to accompany some local hroštole pastry, and can end with a dinner in the light of the full moon over the sea. Along the way, you can see:
the Karst margin – a picturesque
area of natural features, where the typical Karst landscape merges into the Flysch of Istria.
the Overhangs (Spodmole) at Sočerga – a natural feature, also
called the “Ears of Istria”, three large overhangs on a 28-metre high cliff;
the Osp Wall – a rock face in the village of Osp, a favourite location for climbers;
Church of the Holy Trinity in Hrastovlje – with its famous frescoes
of a danse macabre dating from the 15th century;
Socerb Castle – the ruins of the castle on a clifftop looking out to the Bay of Koper house a restaurant. Sweet Istria
KRANJ High fashion in
ancient jewellery
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Kranj Tourism Office Glavni trg 2, SI-4000 Kranj T: +386 (0)4 238 04 50 F: + 386 (0)4 238 04 51 M: + 386 (0)40 66 40 15 E: tic@tourism-kranj.si www.tourism-kranj.si
GREEN: NATURE IN THE CITY The Kokra Canyon is a protected natural site. Here, right in the middle of the city, you can discover a geological marvel, the rich life of the river alongside it and the impact of humans on nature. A circular footpath takes you around the site. It’s best to go with an experienced guide. Follow the instructions, and respect this natural feature.
Pungert z edinim v celoti ohranjenim obrambnim stolpom iz 16. stoletja, grad nad starim prehodom prek reke Save, arkade in vodnjak arhitekta Jožeta Plečnika – to je del znamenitosti Kranja, ki preseneča s kanjonom reke Kokre kar sredi mesta. Starodavni nakit Karnija blesti v muzeju, tehniška dediščina dopolnjuje posebnosti mestnega jedra s srednjeveškimi stavbami, ki je zaščiteno kot kulturni spomenik. Mesto slovenstva in velikih mož.
CITY OF GREAT FIGURES The gorge of the Kokra
The Prešeren Memorial Museum, Prešernov Gaj, Prešeren Theatre and the Prešernov Smenj fair in February all draw attention to the greatest Slovenian poet, France Prešeren. Kranj was also the home of Leopold Layer, the Baroque painter, who painted the famous Brezje Virgin, to which the most popular pilgrimage trail in the Gorenjska region leads. And Kranj was the home town of Janez Puhar, inventor of glass-plate photography, and Janez Bleiweis, a leading figure in the national awakening.
Kranj – Ljubljana 35 km Kranj – Bled 26 km Kranj – Maribor 155 km Kranj – Škofja Loka 10 km Recommended public transport:
KRANJ
High fashion in ancient jewellery ____ 17
ARCHITECTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE
Old Kranj
The tunnels under Kranj
The Brdo estate
Kranj boasts picturesque buildings that cast their gaze onto the mysterious river canyon. The City Hall is one of the most important Slovenian Renaissance mansions, with a late Gothic colonnaded hall from the 16th century. The Prešeren Memorial Museum – the house in which the most important Slovenian poet, France Prešeren, lived during the 19th century. Church of St. Cantius – an exceptional structure in the cityscape, and an important monument of Gothic architecture. Khislstein Castle and its landing – a building on the edge of a pier that arose with the city walls, and it now reflects the changes from the early Antiquity walls to the defensive installations from the 6th century. The castle houses new exhibition space for the Gorenjski Museum and a covered summer theatre. Pirč Dye Shop – once an important manufacturing plant, where linen and cotton were dyed. Pavšlar House – an old town house from the 16th century in the square of Glavni Trg; it houses the Gallery of Prešeren Prize Winners. Layer House – the house of the painter Leopold Layer (1752–1828) with its bath-vaulted room, painted at the beginning of the 19th century. Kranjski Rovi – an underground labyrinth of tunnels from the Second World War; it now houses an exhibition of minerals and fossils and a simulated air raid. Kokra Canyon – an almost 30 metre deep gorge in the city centre, presenting a mosaic of aquatic and riparian biotopes.
THE CREATIVITY OF PERIODS AND PEOPLE
Discover the creativity of the city in exhibition spaces such as: City Hall – with its permanent collection of sculpted works by Lojze Dolinar, the archaeological exhibition Iron Thread and the ethnological exhibition Folk Art in Gorenjska; Prešeren Memorial Museum – from the gallery on the ground floor you can go up to the poet France Prešeren’s room, with its original furniture and original versions of his works; Gallery of Prešeren Prize Winners – learn about more than 140 Prešeren Prize Winners, holders of the most important Slovenian cultural award.
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
OLD AND NEW STORIES Check out the events to suit your tastes at www.tourism-kranj.si, and don’t miss: the Prešernov Smenj fair – every year on 8 February the 19th century comes back to life – complete with appearances and costumes from the time of France Prešeren; Teden Mladih – the biggest Slovenian youth festival, with sports, cultural, musical, educational and other events taking place every year in May; Carniola Festival – a festival with international participation and multicultural repertoire that takes place in June and July; Kranfest and Kranjski semenj fair – these free summer events are concluded with the traditional Kranj Night (Kranjska Noč) in August; Kranjski semenj features a presentation of old crafts; Jazz Kamp – an August gathering of musicians trying out their skills performing a variety of styles; Happy December – December seasonal events with a St. Nicholas procession, a Christmas-New Year fair, Christmas concert and New Year celebration with fireworks.
BY BIKE OR FOOT – INTO NATURE!
Footpaths and cycle paths take you through the area surrounding Kranj to welcoming homesteads, natural features, to birds and water and to the embrace of the mountains. Šmarjetna gora and Jošt – these two easily accessible hills are popular excursion points for hikers and cyclists. Brdo Official Protocol Estate – a Renaissance manor and park with a wealth of plant and animal life and a sculpture collection. Trbojsko Jezero lake – home to numerous waterfowl, it offers boating, angling and other recreation in nature.
Cycle paths below the Karavanke and Kamnik-Savinja Alps
– the paths begin right at the foot of the Karavanke range, and cycle tours of varying difficulty lead along forest trails and roads towards the Alpine peaks.
Presernov semenj
LJUBLJANA Slovenia's Capital
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Ljubljana Tourism Krekov trg 10, SI-1000 Ljubljana T:+386 (0)1 306 45 83 E: info@visitljubljana.si www.visitljubljana.si
GREEN: WITHOUT YOUR CAR The very centre of Ljubljana is a car-free zone. The expanding pedestrian zones are lively gathering places for city residents and visitors. Ljubljana is nicest if you explore it on foot or by bike, which you can also rent. You can also use public transport to get from one part of the city to another.
The capital city of Slovenia lies between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, in a basin where the Ljubljanica River flows into the Sava. Ljubljana has everything offered by a modern capital, while at the same time it has the surprisingly friendly and relaxed atmosphere of a smaller town. The city and surroundings are distinguished by numerous sites of natural beauty, cultural features from the colourful local history, attractive recreational, hiking and cycle paths and a diversity of cuisine. In the year from 23 April 2010 to 23 April 2011, Ljubljana will be the World Book Capital. This is an honorary title awarded by UNESCO, and Ljubljana will be the tenth city to receive it.
DRAGON CITY A dragon, the symbol of Ljubljana
This city, with its remains of stilt dwellings from the wetlands dating back more than 4,500 years, is a city of mythological tales. The ancient Greek hero Jason and his comrades supposedly travelled here after making off with the Golden Fleece and fleeing north. Through the Black Sea, the Danube and the Sava they supposedly made it all the way to the Ljubljanica River. The dragon thought to have been killed by Jason is today part of the city crest. And on Zmajski Most, the Dragon Bridge, you can even touch one! Ljubljana – Bled 57 km Ljubljana – Piran 121 km Ljubljana – Maribor 122 km Ljubljana – Trst (Italija) 94 km Ljubljana – Zagreb (Hrvaška) 139 km Ljubljana – Dunaj (Avstrija) 383 km Recommended public transport:
LJUBLJANA
Slovenia’s Capital ____ 19
FEATURES BY THE BRIDGES
The Ljubljana Opera and Ballet
Tivoli Park
Riverside cafés
The Ljubljanica River runs right through the city, and the numerous attractive bridges spanning it lead to features such as: Ljubljana Castle – offering the finest views of the city; the Slovenian Philharmonic – founded in 1701, it is one of the oldest in the world; Prešernov Trg – this central square is the gathering place for city residents, and features a monument to the greatest Slovenian poet France Prešeren; the Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas, with its illusionist painted ceiling and depiction of the history of Slovenia on the main door; the central market – the creation of the famous architect Jože Plečnik, it is the liveliest part of town; the National and University Library – this most important work of Plečnik in Slovenia houses medieval manuscripts, incunabulas and Renaissance works; City Hall – the building dating from the 15th century is today the seat of the City authority; in the square in front of it stands the Fountain of the Three Rivers of Carniola, the work of Francesco Robba; the Botanical Garden – dating back more than 200 years, it has 4,500 botanical species and subspecies; the Path of Memories and Comradeship – the biggest cultural monument in the city, it is a 33 km long footpath laid out along the route of the barbed wire fence that ringed the city during the Second World War; Tivoli Park – the biggest and finest park in Ljubljana, which stretches right into the city centre.
PRECIOUS OBJECTS IN MUESUMS AND GALLERIES
Slovenia’s capital city is an inspiration with its major Slovenian collections of museum exhibits and artistic works. Visit: the National Museum – with precious items from all over Slovenia, most important of which is a 47,000-year-old Neanderthal whistle; the National Gallery – this presents the artistic periods in Slovenia from the 13th century to the first quarter of the 20th century, and a European Painters collection; the Museum of Modern Art – featuring paintings, sculptures and graphic works by Slovenian and foreign artists of the 20th century; the City Museum – its exhibition Faces of Ljubljana showcases the life of the city and its residents through history. In the house of Jože Plečnik authentic furniture and original material from the architect’s legacy; the Ethnographic Museum – with exhibitions of traditional Slovenian culture and the culture of other peoples of the world; the Architectural Museum - Museum for architecture and design – the museum exhibits in the field of architecture, urbanism, industrial and graphic design and photography; the Museum of Recent History – which is dedicated to the heritage of recent history from the beginning of the 20th century onward; the Railway Museum – this museum houses a collection of steam locomotives, wagons and other historical vehicles.
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
LIVELY EVERY DAY! Check out the calendar of events at www.visitljubljana.si. Don’t miss: June in Ljubljana – featuring free events in Kongres square; the Jazz Festival – the oldest jazz festival in Europe, every June it hosts top names in world jazz; Ljubljana Festival – concert, opera and ballet events in July and August that attract more than 80,000 visitors; the International Graphics Biennial – one of the most important graphic art events in the world, which has taken place every other year in September and October since 1955; the Ljubljana Marathon – in October each year the city centre streets are flooded with increasing numbers of runners; December in Ljubljana – lavish events and a fair, as well as special lighting that makes Ljubljana one of the most beautiful festive cities.
FROM THE CENTRE: ANYWHERE YOU WANT!
Ljubljana is ideally located right in the centre of Slovenia. All the special features of Slovenia are easily accessible from the city. Numerous attractions are just a stone’s throw from the city centre: Ljubljansko barje – a wetland nature park with an exceptional interweave of millennia of settlement and natural features, beyond which lie the gorge of Iški Vintgar, Podpeško Jezero lake and the Museum of Technical Heritage at Bistra; Krvavec – the closest ski slope to Ljubljana, standing at 1971 m and in winter offering 26 km of pistes and an Igloo Village, plus numerous hiking possibilities in summer; Šmarna gora – this hill is the most popular excursion point for Ljubljana residents, and you can explore it right from the bus station. At 669 m, the summit offers fantastic views of the city and surroundings.
The Slovenska Filharmonija Symphony Orchestra
MARIBOR Colour your day!
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TIC Maribor Partizanska 6a, SI- 2000 Maribor T: +386 (0)2 234 66 11 F: +386 (0)2 234 66 13 E: tic@maribor.si www.maribor-pohorje.si
GREEN: ENJOY NATURE! The Pohorje mountain range is home to numerous animal and plant species; there are as many as 90 species of birds and 700 species of butterfly, including the largest in Europe. Thematic trails, including around the Pohorje primeval forest, offer a unique insight into nature. Let’s protect it! Concern for nature can go hand in hand with the enjoyment of the local cuisine, made without harming the environment, healthy drinking water, pleasant climate and the energy influences of nature. You can find all of this in the wide range of wellness programmes.
Slovenia’s second biggest city invites you into the embrace of the Pohorje and the wine-growing hills. The lively pulse of the city centre links a rich history with dynamic modernity, and countless possibilities for fun and relaxation with the joie de vivre and hospitality of the Štajerska region. Awaiting you in the old part of the city is the Old Vine, in fact the oldest vine in the world. You will no doubt want to come back: in 2012 Maribor will be the European Capital of Culture, and in 2013 it will host the 26th Winter Universiade.
LIVELY CITY Old legends tell of the love of life in Maribor. One of the nearby vineyard hills, Pekrska gorca, is said to be created after the Devil himself got angry with the debauched locals. He supposedly tore off a large rock at the top of Pohorje to smash the city. When the Mother of God crossed his path, he tossed the rock away and fled. This rock is today known as Pekrska gorca – with its own calvary, church and vineyards.
Mariborsko Pohorje
Maribor – Dunaj (Avstrija) 258 km Maribor – Zagreb (Hrvaška) 120 km Maribor – Ljubljana 122 km Maribor – Koper 231 km Maribor – Ptuj 25 km Recommended public transport:
MARIBOR
Colour your day! ____ 21
HERITAGE OF CENTURIES
Maribor’s main square
A traditional timber raft on the Drava
The city, first mentioned in 1254, is laced with quaint streets leading from one city square to another. Glavni Trg square – with its Rotovž City Hall and the tower that is “not in the middle”, its baroque church of St. Aloysius and the Plague Monument. Grajski Trg and Trg Svobode squares – with the Maribor Castle and the Regional Museum, the St. Florian statue protecting against fire, and the unusual National Liberation Monument. Slomškov Trg square – in front of the cathedral where was once the city cemetery now stands the statue of A. M. Slomšek, and the square marked by famous J. Plečnik is fringed with imposing SNG Maribor theatre, the Post Office and the University. Židovski Trg square – the Jewish quarter with the synagogue and a tower “threatened” by Five Organic Dangers. Lent and the Old Vine – the oldest part with its Guinness record holder, medieval heritage, cheerful rafts men and festival atmosphere. City Park – a favourite promenade with various species of trees, the Rose Hill and fountains, it leads to the popular Three Fishponds area and Aquarium-Terrarium.
SURPRISES FOR THE CURIOUS
An authentic cultural experience of Maribor and its surroundings in museums and galleries: The Old Vine House – a temple of wine-making tradition and culture with a precious bottle of the black velvet grapes of Modra Kavčina and royal and knights’ wine equipment; Maribor Regional Museum – priceless archaeological, ethnological, cultural, and historical items in the Maribor Castle; Maribor Art Gallery – one of the central Slovenian museums of modern and contemporary art with more than 3,000 works; Kibla – a peak of creativity in the fields of multimedia and intermedia art and culture; Maribor National Liberation Museum – a mansion in the city centre presenting the recent history of northeastern Slovenia; Museum of the Maribor Archdiocese – documents and items from the Maribor Archdiocese treasury in the Betnava Mansion.
A ride in a horse-drawn carriage
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
CITY OF FESTIVALS: CAPITAL OF CULTURE European Capital of Culture 2012 – proof that Maribor is an outstanding host of exceptional cultural events! Check out the calendar of events at www.maribor-pohorje.si. Lent Festival – the biggest festival in this part of Europe. In June and July Maribor turns into a metropolis with more than 400 events and distinguished artists and culture lovers from all over the world. The Old Vine Festival – wine, food and culture festival in September honoring the Old Vine that welcomes its admirers in front of the Old Vine House. Maribor Festival – in September Maribor is infused with culture, tradition, artistic expression and achievements. Borštnikovo Srečanje – the central Slovenian theatre festival at the SNG Maribor theatre in October offers the best competitive and accompanying performances. Summer Puppet Pier – the annual gathering of puppeteers and children of the world brings what is fresh and high-quality in puppeting. Colourful December – holiday atmosphere starts with the Fairy Tale city lighting, grows with seasonal events and achieves its climax with the New Years’ celebration in the Trg Svobode square.
EXPLORING THE CITY AND ITS GREEN SURROUNDINGS
You can discover Maribor by foot, bicycle, horse-drawn carriage or by tourist train, while you can get a truly special view of the city by rafting on the Drava river. You can go with a guide or on your own into the green surroundings of: Mariborsko Pohorje – with its primeval forest, peat bogs and lakes, streams and waterfalls. In summer it attracts hikers, bikers and extreme sports enthusiasts, while in winter it turns into the biggest ski centre in Slovenia with mountain wellness and the Golden Fox world cup ski competition; Wine roads – the wine-growing hills are laced with scenic hiking and biking trails as well as roads to wineries and tourist farms, and to the ethnological and natural features; Botanical gardens – the University Botanical Garden and the Tal 2000 to learn especially about the Pohorje forests, north-eastern Slovenia and the riverside world.
The Lent Festival
NOVO MESTO City of situlae
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Institute of Tourism Novo mesto TIC Novo mesto Glavni trg 6, SI-8000 Novo mesto T: +386 (0)7 39 39 263 E: tic@novomesto.si www.dolenjska.net
GREEN: BANKS OF THE KRKA RIVER Nicely arranged river banks, where the situlae are placed, have held the bronze medal for Entente Florale since 2007, awarded by the association of twelve European countries. In 2009 at the exhibition in Lugano, Switzerland, Novo mesto was named most beautiful inland city in Slovenia. Year after year, Novo mesto is among the best towns in the Slovenian event “My country, beautiful and hospitable”. Novo mesto is the holder of awards for sustainable development working in harmony with nature.
River Krka and Ragov log
The most beautiful inland city in Slovenia has been for centuries the centre of administrative, cultural, religious and business life in Dolenjska – and of a unique landscape in the south of the country. Among vineyards in the shelter of the Krka valley, is a city concealing an amazing archaeological heritage. On its hillsides you can visit traditional events, picturesque churches, monasteries, museums and galleries. Everything in the vicinity of Novo mesto, from mighty forests and thermal springs to varied opportunities for outdoor activities make it a great destination.
ANCIENT FIELD TREASURES Kapiteljska njiva je največje arheološko najdišče v srednji Evropi. Tu so bili sprva zaradi oranja, kasneje pa zaradi načrtnega izkopavanja najdeni edinstveni predmeti iz različnih obdobij. Številne najdbe so iz starejše železne dobe, iz halštatskega obdobja. Posebna dragocenost so situle - bronaste vedrice z bogatim figuralnim okrasjem. Po njim je Novo mesto imenovano mesto situl.
Novo mesto – Ljubljana 78 km Novo mesto – Bled 126 km Novo mesto – Maribor 145 km Novo mesto – Koper 172 km Recommended public transport:
NOVO MESTO
City of situlae ____ 23
FROM THE RIVER TO THE HILLS AND BACK
Dolenjska Museum
TIC Novo mesto
Krka River, which embraces Novo mesto, has for centuries protected citizens, powered the mills, and facilitated various economic activities. Even today, a stroll through the city is marked by the river. From the riverside you can easily reach the following: The main square - the central area of the medieval town of Novo mesto with arcades and patios. City Hall - with the coat of arms of Rudolf IV of Habsburg, founder of the city. In front of the building are statues of the poet Dragotin Kette and the novelist Janez Trdina. Complex Škofije Novo mesto - Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas and the famous altarpiece by J. R. Tintoretto, Diocese building with a library, archives, gallery and a collection of religious objects, and the garden, beside which sit the last remnants of the city walls. Franciscan monastery - rebuilt several times, the monastery building was established in 1472, holds the city's oldest library, and is connected to the Church of St. Lenart. Novo mesto - Breg - here the city walls used to sit atop a rocky peninsula. Since the eighteenth century the town’s characteristic houses have flourished there creating a picturesque panorama for the city.
HERITAGE ON VIEW
Look also behind the walls of the city buildings! Visit: Dolenjska Museum - permanent exhibitions of archaeological, ethnological, war and other objects from the city and wider region complement the museum workshops, screenings, and special events. Jakčev home - in addition to the collection of Bozidar Jakac, one of the most famous Slovenian painters and graphic artists, there is also a permanent art exhibition of the Dolenjska Museum and Fine art collection. On the ground floor of the house is an annual gallery program. The IMV Museum Collection - recounts the development of the automotive industry in the city, today a source of world-famous caravans and cars with famous sounding names!
Novo mesto
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
CHEERS! Novo mesto provides many events to promote the well-being and sociability of people. See what is going on at www.dolenjska.net Cviček Week - May days see the main square in Novo mesto filled with more than five thousand winegrowers from Dolenjska - the largest wine tourist event in Slovenia! Novo mesto - summer evening concerts in the museum gardens, the international photographic workshop Fotopub, Jazzinty Festival, Night on the Krka River and other events enliven the summer in the city; St. Martin's Feast (Martinmas) November's event at the Main Square evokes a tradition of first worships for the wine saint New Year in Novo mesto - December's cultural and entertaining events for all ages culminate in the gala dinner in the city’s main square
Forests, Water, Castles - Novo
mesto is set amid vast forests, wine-growing hills, spas, and castles. Explore the neighbourhood! Gorjanci - flat hills with beautiful forests are a surprise for hikers and bikers. Krka – the green river invites you on walks along the embankments, and for various water adventures such as boating and fishing; Trška Mountain - a famous hill full of wine cellars and vineyards, which and also boasts majestic lime trees and the pilgrimage route. Otočec - a romantic castle on an island in the middle of the Krka river offers various sports facilities and a golf course; Dolenjske Toplice - one of the oldest spas in Europe is today home to a comprehensive wellness service. Šmarješke Toplice - springs in the middle of forests and meadows promise well-being and better health.
Cviček Week
PIRAN Tartini's town
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TIC Piran Tartinijev trg 2, SI-6330 Piran T: +386 (0)5 673 44 40 F: +386 (0)5 673 44 41 E: ticpi@portoroz.si www.portoroz.si
GREEN: PIRAN FOOTPATHS Leave your car in the public car park and be safe and healthy. You can rent a bicycle for just 10 euro a day, and public transport with a tourist ticket is extremely cheap. The finest experiences are to be had strolling and hiking. Get yourself one of the excellent Piran footpath maps, which are available at the tourist information centres. And please don’t bring car exhaust into this town with its exceptional cultural and natural heritage!
The Strunjan saltworks
This Mediterranean jewel of Slovenia is a truly special place. In this birthplace of the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, along the narrow medieval streets, between tightly squeezed houses that gradually rise up the slopes, you can still hear violins and other instruments at concerts and festivals of classical music. Piran is a monument to the diverse architecture of past centuries. The town squares are places of socialising that undulate to the rhythm of the sea.
BENEČANKA: LET THEM SPEAK The red Benečanka (Venetian) building is among the finest buildings in Piran. Its façade bears the inscription “Lassa pur dir” – “Let them speak”. Legend has it that the building was built by a rich Venetian trader for his Piranese paramour. The inscription was supposedly a response to the townsfolk, who dealt with the lovers spitefully.
Piran – Koper 16 km Piran – Izola 8 km Piran – Trst (Italija) 35 km Piran – Ljubljana 124 km Piran – Bled 172 km Recommended public transport: PIRAN
Tartini’s town ____ 25
BEHIND SEVEN TOWN GATES
Tartini Square
The Sečovlje saltworks
Behind the town walls from the 7th century, from which seven town gates are still preserved, you can see: Tartinijev Trg – the central town square dating from the 13th century. By filling in the little port inlet a spacious market square was formed, and around it are all the main municipal institutions; the Municipal Palace – an old RomanesqueGothic town hall from the end of the 13th century, which was completely renovated in 1879 in the Neoclassical style; the Benečanka – the oldest preserved building in Tartinijev Trg, from the 15th century, the finest example of Venetian Gothic architecture in Piran; Tartini’s House – the birth house of the composer Giuseppe Tartini (1692-1770), one of the oldest houses in the square, bearing his name; Trg 1. maja or Stari Trg (Piazza Vecchia) – in the middle of the former main square is a stone water and rain collector, into which fed drains from the roofs of local houses; Church of St. George – a church from the 12th century, the biggest of the ten churches in Piran.
THE ANCIENT SEA
The treasures of Piran’s history are linked to the sea. They infuse the works in the Municipal Gallery, the Herman Pečarič Gallery and the Meduza 2 Gallery. Meanwhile the major treasures are kept in: the Sergej Mašera Maritime Museum – with its archaeological, maritime, cultural, historical and ethnological collection and saltmaking and fishing sections; the Museum of Underwater Activities – with presentations of diving from its beginnings to the present day – featuring ancient diving equipment, hand pumps, diving bells and so forth; the aquarium, with more than 140 marine organisms, offering an insight into the diverse marine life; Konhilarij – magic world of shells – You can see almost 1 800 different limy shells, snails and fossils from all over the world.
The Venetian House
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
THE PULSE OF SUMMER, AND OTHER SEASONS, TOO! Piran is a town of numerous events which you can check out at www.portoroz.si. The Saltmakers’ Festival – on 24 April, on the Feast of St. George, patron saint of the town, you can witness the traditional departure of the saltmakers to the saltpans. The fair of antiques, local crafts and nature’s gifts – every last Saturday of the month in Tartinijev Trg. Piran musical evenings – on Fridays in July and August, top-quality classical music concerts have been staged for more than 30 years. The Tartini Festival – the concert evenings in August and September are devoted to the music of Giuseppe Tartini. Ex-tempore Piran – in September the town traditionally welcomes painters from various parts of the world. Christmas Nativity scene in Piran churches – from 20 December to the beginning of January, eight Piran churches present the creations of eight artists.
SALT, FOOD AND PAMPERING
The view from the town walls
Want more? Head off into the surroundings! The Piran countryside – in the Šavrin Hills are the villages of Sveti Peter, Padna and Nova Vas. They are a delight with their olive groves, from which the virgin olive oil is made for typical Istrian dishes, and with their vineyards, which produce grapes for Refošk (Refosco) and Malvasia. Portorož Spa – a thermal spa with a century-old tradition, it uses brine, mud and salt from the Piran saltpans, and it offers wonderful massages and pools with sea and thermal mineral water. Sečovlje Saltpans – a nature park covering a full 650 ha, it is home to more than 270 bird species in and unspoilt environment with numerous special features. Forma Viva – collection of stone sculptures in open air. It is situated in the park of the Seča pri Portorožu peninsula. Fiesa – only 20 minutes walk from Piran - a small bay. The town is known for two fresh water lakes which are only few metres from the sea.
of millennia
PTUJ The treasure-house
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TIC Ptuj Slovenski trg 5, Ptuj T: +386 (0)2 779 60 11 +386 (0)2 771 01 73 F: +386 (0)2 771 01 75 E: info@ptuj.info www.ptuj.info
GREEN: IMPORTANT EUROPEAN AREAS Important European areas of nature preservation are included in the Natura 2000 network. This network includes the lake of Ptujsko Jezero, a wintering ground for thousands of aquatic birds, and two fishponds in the village of Podvinci. The ponds, which are at least 200 years old, are a habitat for animals and plants that have almost disappeared elsewhere. The path around the ponds offers a special experience of protected nature.
Pogled iz zraka
The city by the Drava is a natural meeting point of vineyard-covered hills and the expansive open fields of north-eastern Slovenia. People have lived here without interruption since Roman times. The town charter of 1376 places Ptuj among the oldest towns or cities in the wider region. The protected medieval city centre maintains its stories of the past in churches and monasteries, in vaulted wine cellars and in castle halls. The mystical quality of the city is maintained by the kurent costumed figures, who drive away everything bad.
CLOCK WITHOUT TIME FOR THE LORD OF THE CASTLE The large clock on the city tower has a dial only on three sides. On the northern side, which looks towards the castle, there is no dial. Stories of the past relate that the burghers took revenge in this way against the miserly count, who did not wish to contribute money for the clock. The story no doubt contains a grain of truth, since the city and the lord of the castle were frequently at each other’s throats regarding maintenance of the defensive towers and the staircase from the city to the castle.
Ptuj – Maribor 25 km Ptuj – Celje 61 km Ptuj – Ljubljana 132 km Recommended public transport:
PTUJ
The treasure-house of the millennia ____ 27
THOUSANDS OF INSPIRATIONS
Inside the Dominican friary
Kurents or Korants (traditional carnival figures)
Art gallery
Ptuj, thousands of special qualities accumulated in thousands of lives. Walk through its streets with open eyes. The Minorite Monastery – the first entirely Gothic building in Slovenia, built at the beginning of the 13th century. The Florian Monument – a monument erected in 1745 in Mestni Trg was a supplication from the burghers to St. Florian for his protection from the frequent fires. The Orpheus Monument – a Roman gravestone of Pohorje marble, almost 5 metres high, was erected in the 2nd century. In the Middle Ages it was used as stocks. The City Tower – the tower with the unusual clock, first mentioned in 1376, is among the oldest open-air lapidariums. In the 19th century, monuments from Antiquity of Ptuj and its surroundings were built into it. Church of St. George – the finest and richest architectural monument in Ptuj, dating from the 12th century, has Renaissance and Baroque gravestones from the former cemetery on its exterior walls. Dominican Monastery – with a museum and family vault of the lords of Ptuj; the monastery also houses the Ptuj Historical Archives. Ptuj Castle – on the castle hill, which was already inhabited in Antiquity, stands the oldest preserved tower on the chivalric circuit; the castle was home to the family of the lords of Ptuj, which built a two-storey building. Today the castle houses the Regional Museum.
HERITAGE COLLECTIONS
Ptuj offers thousands of images of cultural heritage. These are in the care of the Ptuj – Ormož Regional Museum. Come and see: Ptuj Castle – with its collections of feudal residential life, weapons, musical instruments, traditional carnival masks, paintings on glass, an ethnological collection and castle gallery; the Dominican Monastery – with its numismatic collection lapidarium and reconstruction of a Mithraeum, and collection of small archaeological items; the Mihelič Gallery – the tower by the Drava River houses the graphic room of painter France Mihelič. The city also features an Art Salon and the Stari Zapori exhibition centre.
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
FROM ROMAN TO CASTLE GAMES In this city of millennia you can be a Roman, a lord, a taster, a carnival figure or just a city burgher seeking a real experience. Check out the events at www.ptuj.info and this selection: Pust carnival with kurenti – (in February) numerous ethnographic and tourist events with the hallmark ethnographic costumed figure of the kurent or korant; Slovenian Farm Fare – a May presentation of Slovenian rural cuisine; Art Ptuj – an international festival of music and painting in July; Festival of Popular Folk Music – the oldest festival of local popular music takes place every August; Roman Games at Terme Ptuj spa – a cultural and entertaining revival of the ancient roots of Ptuj in August; Festival of poetry and wine - numerous readings of poetry and other events provide for a poetical end of summer (end of August) Ptuj Castle Games – a sociable presentation of medieval culture every first week in June .
A FEW STEPS FROM THE CITY
After discovering the special features of the city, you can head off for relaxation in the surrounding area. Visit: Terme Ptuj – one of the biggest thermal spa parks in central Europe, it also offers accommodation of all types, from bungalows to a hotel; Ptuj Golf Course – a multiple awardwinning course with a varied terrain and numerous water obstacles; Ptujska gora – the hill with a famous Gothic pilgrimage church and an exceptional monument: the Virgin Mary opening her mantle; with its fine views, the hill is a favourite destination of hikers and cyclists; Ptuj Lake – suitable for water sports and other leisure activities.
Ptuj Golf Course
RADOVLJICA A walled town
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TIC Radovljica Linhartov trg 9, SI-4240 Radovljica T: +386 (0)4 531 51 12 F: +386 (0)8 205 13 36 E: info@radolca.si www.radolca.si
GREEN: THE CARNIOLAN GREY Bees are an important indicator of threats to the natural environment. Slovenia has 180,000 bee colonies, and is the only member of the EU to have protected its native species of bee, the Carniolan grey. In Radovljica you can find out everything about the Carniolan grey in the Beekeeping Museum, and to the buzzing of bees you can visit Breznica, which features a reconstruction of the apiary of Anton Janša, the initiator of modern beekeeping in the 18th century.
Kamen Castle in Draga pri Begunjah
In the Alpine area between Jelovica and the Karavanke range, a town has stood on the river terraces above the confluence of the Sava Bohinjka and Sava Dolinka since the 14th century, and this town boasts unique examples of medieval buildings painted with frescoes. Behind the walls, with their only preserved defensive moat in Slovenia, await the town’s sites of interest, the castle park, museums and galleries and the main square, in which events and festivals are held. Radovljica is also the centre of Slovenian beekeeping. Just 7 km from Radovljica is the tourist location of Bled with its picturesque lake, island with a chapel and the castle perched on a mighty clifftop.
PEGAM AND LAMBERGAR Legend has it that in the 15th century Pegam and his army rampaged through this countryside. The Emperor called upon the brave Lambergar for help, and he in turn vanquished Pegam. Pegam then turned into a three-headed monster and vanished into the underworld. Their struggle is also a theme on painted beehive panels, which are on display in the Beekeeping Museum. Lambergar is also recalled in the romantic ruins of Kamen Castle in Begunje, close to Radovljica, which belonged to the Lamberg family.
Radovljica – Bled 7 km Radovljica – Ljubljana 56 km Radovljica – Celovec (Avstrija) 80 km Radovljica – Kranj 22 km Recommended public transport:
RADOVLJICA
A walled town ____ 29
BEHIND THE WALLS AND MOAT
The medieval moat
Linhart Square and the Šivec House
The old town centre is itself a collection of architecturally and culturally surprising structures. The outstanding ones include: Šivec House – a completely preserved burgher house with a medieval ground plan; the house façade with its intricate edging is adorned with frescoes from the 17th century; the house also has a wedding hall; Magušar House – with late gothic arcade atrium where exhibitions of ceramics take place; Mali House – a Gothic-Renaissance building with an upper storey pier and stocks; Vidic House – a Renaissance Radovljica mansion from the 17th century with a portal made by a famous stonemason’s workshop; Radovljica Mansion – a Baroque two-storey manor house in the middle of the town, with a renovated Baroque hall on the first floor and Radovljica museum collections; Church of St. Peter – a 15th century church adorned with towers and the remains of walls that give it the appearance of a defensive encampment; the parsonage next to it is distinguished by an arcade walkway from the 16th century; The Castle park – the remnant of a Baroque garden with an avenue of beeches; Gothic Tavern – the space preserved in the rectory with the exhibition of vinorels (paintings with wine); Chapel of St. Edith Stein – a German bunker from the World War II houses a chapel dedicated to the philosopher, the Carmelite and the patron of the European Union.
BITTERSWEET FEATURES
You can check out a whole range of museums in the town and surrounding area at www.muzeji-radovljica.si. Come and see: Radovljica Municipal Museum – with its collection on the important Slovenian dramatist and national consciousness figure Anton Tomaž Linhart in Radovljica Manor House; Radovljica Beekeeping Museum – offering a comprehensive presentation of the Slovenian beekeeping tradition, the native Carniolan grey and painted beehive panels; Kropa Blacksmith’s Museum – presenting the development of ironworking from ore to nails, life in the ironworking settlement of Kropa, and a collection of artistic smithing work; Hostages Museum in Begunje – a testament to the suffering of the Slovenians during the Second World War; Avsenik Museum in Begunje – with a collection on the world famous popular folk music created by the Avsenik brothers; www.avsenik.com; Gingerbread Museum and Workshop – with live presentations of gingerbread making, an old Slovenian craft linked to beekeeping; www.lectar.com; Mošnje Local Museum – this houses two collections. The first presents the town and its inventory of buildings, societies and events, the school and church, and the second has a rich collection of farm tools and machinery. Close to the village is the archaeological find of a Roman villa rustica; www.mosnje.com.
Brezje
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
OLD INSPIRATIONS – NEW EXPERIENCES Radovljica, Linhart’s town of culture, boasts numerous traditional events such as: Radovljica Festival – a well-known international festival of old and new music on authentic instruments; the oldest festival of such music in Slovenia is held every August; www.festival-radovljica.si; Path of Venus – summer events with a medieval air evoke memories of the path taken in the 13th century by Ulrich of Liechtenstein, dressed up as the goddess of love, Venus; the event includes bonfires, an archery contest and more; Radolško Summer – musical, stage and other summer events in the centre of town; Avsenik Festival in Begunje – an event over several days in September with typical Slovenian popular folk music; “Rešte se, rešte, starega leta” – seeing out the old year, a traditional December event.
LOCAL PATHS
After touring the old town centre of Radovljica, you can treat yourself to a view of this Alpine area from the air, taking a plane from the sports airfield at Lesce. Unwind at the golf course by the Šobec campsite. Explore the local towns and villages: Brezje – a Slovenian spiritual centre, and the most visited pilgrimage site with its basilica of Mary Our Help; around here runs the circular Brezje path of peace, which leads to special cultural landscape and natural sites; Kropa – the cradle of blacksmithing, and its technical heritage of smelting, with the oldest preserved smelting furnace in Europe and other special features have marked it as a monument of national importance for more than 50 years; Begunje – this village of music, castles and memories of the Second World War can be explored on the Lamberg Trail, which leads to the Katzenstein Manor House, to the remains of the Hudičev Gradič (Devil’s Castle) and the ruins of Kamen Castle. A fun event in Radovljica
SLOVENSKE KONJICE A town of flowers and wine
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TIC Slovenske Konjice Stari trg 27, SI-3210 Slovenske Konjice T: +386 (0)3 759 31 10 F: +386 (0)3 759 31 11 M: +386 (0)51 444 141 E: tic.konjice@siol.net www.knjiznica-slovenskekonjice.si
GREEN: ŽIČE ALYSSUM Along the way towards the Carthusian Monastery of Žiče is a natural growing area of žički grobeljnik, an endemic alyssum flower which thrives in Slovenia only in the quarry at Žiče and in some places around it. It is a rare and endangered plant subspecies. The growing area is a protected natural monument. Don’t pick any of the precious plants. Take them with you in the form of a photograph!
This town, with its thousand-year-old central square layout, is a model of friendliness and tidiness. It boasts many awards as the most beautiful town in Slovenia, and in the European competition Entente Florale it won a gold medal, placing it alongside the best-kept towns of Europe. This charming town lies below the mysterious mountain of Konjiška Gora and the winegrowing hills of Škalce in north-eastern Slovenia.
THE DRAGON OF KONJIŠKA GORA
Mountain gold
Konjiška Gora is supposedly hollow inside, and at its bottom is a lake guarded by a terrible dragon. Each spring the people of Konjice gave it a gift of a beautiful girl so the town would not be flooded by water from the lake. But when they wanted to give the dragon Marjetica, the lovely daughter of the count, in rode the brave knight George. He fought and vanquished the dragon, and saved the Konjice residents from the dangers of the mysterious mountain.
Sl. Konjice – Ljubljana 100 km Sl. Konjice – Zreče 5 km Sl. Konjice – Maribor 36 km Sl. Konjice – Celje 27 km Sl. Konjice – Koper 205 km Recommended public transport:
SLOVENSKE KONJICE
A town of flowers and wine ____ 31
FROM STREAM TO HERBS AND WINE
Stari Trg (Old Square)
Žiče Charterhouse
Slovenske Konjice is inextricably tied to nature: to the stream in the town, to the vineyards on the hills and to the herbalist tradition. Several features bear witness to this: Stari Trg – the medieval town square, through which runs the Gospodična stream; the houses in the square are a telling indicator of the more than 860 year history of the square; Trebnik Mansion – herb gardens and a herbal preparations shop in the mansion in the middle of the park below the imposing mountain; Old Castle – the ruins of the residence of the lords of Konjice on Konjiška Gora; it has a renovated defensive tower and part of the walls from the 12th century; Škalce – a hilly area with vineyards, a wine road and golf course just above the town; Žiče Monastery – a medieval charterhouse dating from 1160 in the picturesque valley of St. John the Baptist, not far from the centre of town; an exhibition of Žiče manuscripts, herb gardens and the Viva Sana herbal preparations, plus the Otakar sparkling wine cellar; Gastuž – the oldest Slovenian inn, dating from 1467, right by Žiče Monastery.
SELECT AND OF THE PEOPLE
Allow yourself to be impressed with the outstanding gallery exhibits and the authenticity of the ethnological collections: Riemer Municipal Gallery – with a collection of paintings by famous masters from the early Renaissance to the present day, and a collection of antique furniture, including 200-year-old white salon furnishings from Miramare Castle; Museum Collection of Military Objects from the Austro-Hungarian Period – a private collection of museum objects, especially from the period of the First World War; Dravinjska Dolina Firefighting Museum – more than 560 exhibits demonstrating the development of organised fire protection below the Pohorje mountains; Muzejček Zrno – the “Kernel Museum” along the wine road in Škalce is in a little wooden house from the 17th century, and offers a collection of old tools for processing ears and grain, baking devices and bread-making tools; Heritage House in Mlače – a rich ethnological collection in the village of Mlače; Pust House – ethnological collection of old farm tools and a collection of objects from the Second World War at nearby Tolsti Vrh.
Škalce
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
TOWN OF ETHNO-EVENTS The town pulses with preserved tradition. Come and experience: Jurjevanje – a traditional event held at the end of April, reviving the story of the knight St. George who saved the town from the dragon of Konjiška Gora; announcing the vintage – at the beginning of September in Stari Trg square there is a special announcement of the grape harvest in the surrounding vineyards; Martinovanje – the traditional November celebration of young wine for the Feast of St. Martin.
TO THE HILLS, VALLEYS AND VILLAGES
Take a stroll through Stari Trg, tour the Riemer Municipal Gallery and Trebnik Mansion, then go along the wine road to the Zlati Grič cellar, one of the most modern wine cellars in Europe, and then on to the surrounding villages with their many special features. Visit: Žiče – a hamlet where you can observe demonstrations of original wickerwork; Mlače – in this village with its Heritage House you can treat yourself to an unforgettable hearth-baked potica cake; Loče – this little village offers hiking experiences along the Loče-Zbelovo Mountain Trail, on which you can encounter all the more prominent features of the location.
The Feast of St George
The town of the Passion
ŠKOFJA LOKA
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TOURISM ŠKOFJA LOKA Kidričeva cesta 1a, SI-4220 Škofja Loka T: +386 (0)4 517 06 00 +386 (0)51 427 827 E: info@skofja-loka.com www.skofja-loka.com
GREEN: LOCAL CUISINE Wherever you are, consume what grows there. The dishes of Škofja Loka are based on products from nature. Škofja Loka kruhki buns contain honey from nearby apiaries, and they are baked in hand-carved moulds. Loška smojka, which was once a Lenten dish, is based on home-made turnip stuffed with millet gruel.
This best preserved medieval town, with its guild traditions and a black man in its crest, has many intriguing stories. Every seven years, the town below Škofja Loka Castle comes alive with a colourful passion procession, a special enactment of Christ’s suffering and resurrection using the oldest dramatic text in Slovenian. The mosaic of events and authentic Škofja Loka cuisine bring curious people into the town from near and far.
BLACK MAN IN THE CREST Decorative pastries
What is a black man doing in the town crest? Enjoying gratitude! When the lord of the land, Abraham, and his black servant were travelling here, they encountered a huge bear in a dark wood. The African felled the bear with his bow, and his lord said to him: “You saved my life! I shall reward you by ensuring that later generations know what a hero you were.” And he had the servant painted into the town’s crest.
Škofja Loka – Ljubljana 22 km Škofja Loka – Bled 38 km Škofja Loka – Koper 125 km Škofja Loka – Maribor 142 km Škofja Loka – Letališče J.P. Ljubljana 18 km Recommended public transport:
ŠKOFJA LOKA
The town of the Passion ____ 33
GLIMPSES OF THE MIDDLE AGES
The old town centre
Loka Castle
Wherever you look in Škofja Loka, you can catch sight of medieval beauty. Come and see: Škofja Loka Castle – the former seat of the local territorial lord, it was renovated after the earthquake in 1511; it houses the Loka Museum collections; Kašča – the granary, a building intended for storing taxes paid in kind, and built as part of the town walls before the 1511 earthquake; it houses a gallery, restaurant and wine bar; the Stone or Capuchin Bridge – a bridge more than 600 years old, one of the oldest monuments of bridge building in Europe. On it stands a statue of St. John of Nepomuk with the Škofja Loka crest; Homan House – a town mansion in the Gothic style with Renaissance elements, it was renovated in the 16th century. Today it houses a delightful confectioner’s and coffee shop; Martin House – built onto the town walls, dating to the 14th century, and fully preserved in the section next to the house; Old Town Hall (Rotovž) – dating from the 16th century, the pre-eminent building of Mestni Trg square; it has a Gothic portal, entrance hall and door and Renaissance arcaded courtyard; Sign of the Virgin – a Baroque sign with statues of St. Roque, St. Anthony and St. Mary, erected by the town in 1751 in thanks for protection from the plague and fire.
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
Preserved behind the walls of the imposing medieval buildings are special features of the past and art of the present: Loka Museum – featuring archaeological, historical, cultural, artistic, ethnological and natural science collections at Škofja Loka Castle; the museum workshops recreate the old guild crafts; Ivan Grohar Gallery – a space in the centre of town for attractive ambiental and multimedia installations; France Mihelič Gallery – the medieval Kašča building houses a permanent exhibition of graphics, drawings and paintings by France Mihelič; Library of the Capuchin Monastery – alongside priceless incunabula and religious books it houses the original manuscript of the oldest preserved dramatic text in Slovenian – the Škofja Loka Passion. Nace House in Puštal – an ethnographic monument of Slovenia’s rural architecture heritage; Centre of domestic craftwork – exhibition of hand-made products, working room and the centre for transfer of such skills to young generation.
The Stone Bridge or Capuchin Bridge
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
AWAITING THE PASSION In March and April 2015 Škofja Loka will once again stage its thrilling Škofja Loka Passion – the PROCESSIO LOCOPOLITANA of 1721. This spectacular street event has a special cultural, historical and religious significance. Events during the Passion – during Lent and Easter, every year Škofja Loka is alive with Passion stories. HISTORIAL ŠKOFJA LOKA – on the last weekend of June the town is infused with tales of the Middle Ages. Musical Loka – in June, young musicians play in the streets, squares and entrance halls of the old town centre. Summer Loka – events in July and August provide a cultural flavour to the warm evenings. White December – in the last month of the year there is a series of events in the festively decorated town. Old-style skiing – an event in January on the castle hill demonstrating the heritage of old-style skiing.
TO GREEN VIEWS
After strolling around the mystical town, with its impressive medieval houses, hidden nooks and crannies and arcaded courtyards, and seeing the multivisual presentations of the Škofja Loka Passion, then up the scenic path to the castle with its museum workshops, you can continue on to the surrounding area.
Poljanska and Selška dolina valleys – along the Selška Sora and Pol-
janska Sora streams, which converge at Škofja Loka into the Sora river, there are wonderful flowering meadows, expansive forests and unspoilt nature with numerous natural and cultural features. Škofja Loka hills – around the hills close to Škofja Loka there are hiking and cycling trails of varying difficulty. You can also visit traditional farms, refresh yourself at one of the hospitable local establishments and observe the skilled work of the women and men who run these establishments.
The Medieval Festival
TRŽIČ The Venice of Gorenjska
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TPIC Tržič Trg svobode 18, SI-4290 Tržič T: +386 (0)4 597 15 36 E: informacije@trzic.si www.trzic.si
GREEN: NORDIC WALKING Caring for nature and the environment is also caring for yourself! Discover the charms of the town and the natural environment in a natural way. Try Nordic walking. At the tourist promotion and information centre in town you can rent Nordic walking poles, and you can learn this method in Tržič with the help of an experienced guide. The centre also offers bicycles for rent.
The water of the Tržiška Bistrica River and the Mošenik stream, which converge right in Tržič, once drove the machinery of this small manufacturing town in a basin below the Karavanke peaks. Over the millraces stretch little bridges, and the town centre houses, furnished with wrought iron doors and shutters, are squeezed into the streets without any order. This town was once the home of Marshal Radetzky – the same one whose famous march is played at New Year by the Vienna Philharmonic.
EXILED BY A DRAGON Dovžanova soteska
Once there was a small blacksmith and forging settlement below the nearby mountain pass. One day the old cockerel of a local blacksmith flew off towards the mountain, crowed and laid an egg. From this egg hatched a dragon, which grew into an enormous monster. When it jumped, it released an avalanche that buried the settlement – and the dragon! The people had to flee, and only stopped in the basin by the foot of the mountain. They stayed right there – and created Tržič.
Tržič – Kranj 18 km Tržič – Ljubljana 50 km Tržič – Bled 23 km Tržič – letališče J.P. Ljubljana 26 km Tržič – Celovec 39 km Recommended public transport:
TRŽIČ
The Venice of Gorenjska ____ 35
PROTECTED TOWN CENTRE
Shoemaker’s workshop in the Tržič Museum
The Mally House
Konjščica mountain pasture
Tržič has a range of special features, but the biggest feature is the town centre itself, which as a whole has been protected for decades as a cultural and historical monument. The buildings with their medieval ground plans retained a classicist design in the rows of facades after the great fire of 1811, but they also acquired special characteristics. There are outstanding: portals – with rosettes, construction dates, initials of the house owner and the Eye of God; wrought iron shutters, window screens and doors – prescribed furnishings that would prevent the spread of fire in the event of a new conflagration; spyholes – to observe goings-on in the street without needing to open the window; drying openings in the roofs – for drying pelts, canvas, linen and socks; opestniki – roadside kerbstones that protected house fronts from being damaged by wagons. “PVAC’” HOUSES Neuhaus Castle: this building on a hill above the town was historically always occupied by those in authority over the town, including the famous Marshal Radetzky. Dev House: the birth house of Janez Damascen Dev, writer of the first Slovenian libretto Belin and the co-creator of Pisanice, the first Slovenian secular poetic almanac. Church of St. Andrew: it was here that the Christmas song Silent Night was first performed in Slovenian, having been translated by the then serving Tržič priest Jakob Aljaž.
FROM PREHISTORY TO THE PRESENT DAY
In this town close to the well-known Dovžanova soteska Gorge, with stones from the Palaeozoic Age, a view of various periods is provided by the museum collections. Visit: Tržič Museum – in the former dyeing and tanning shop, it preserves the heritage of Tržič hand crafts and presents the cultural and ethnographic heritage of this ironworking town; Kurnik House – the birth house of the folk poet Vojteh Kurnik, a rural burgher house from the 18th century with original fixtures, a “black” open-fire kitchen and cobbler’s workshop;
EVENTS
EXCURSIONS
JOY IN LIGHT Socialising in Tržič is associated with the time when there is more sunlight in the valley. Traditional events include: Gregorjevo – on 11 March the people of Tržič launch special little houses with candles along the river; the custom of one-time cobblers symbolises joy that with spring coming they would no longer need to use artificial light in their work; Tržič summer events – Friday and Saturday evenings in the summer months offer performances, concerts and thematic events; Cobbler’s Sunday – the first Sunday in September features a traditional fair with more than 300 stalls and a range of ethnographic, fun and cultural events; enjoy a cobbler’s lunch and Tržič roast beef!
HIGHER AND CLOSER TO NATURE
Tržič is a pleasant starting point for exploring the mountains and peaks of the Karavanke and Kamnik Alps. From the town you can head off to the nearby Podljubelj or Lom Valley and the valley of the Tržiška Bistrica River. You can also discover the natural environment in a special way in the famous gorge which is just 3 km from the centre of Tržič.
The Dovžanova soteska Gorge
– a unique site of stones up to 300 million years old, it is protected as a natural monument; the river, stone pyramids, the tunnel and narrow gorge show the creative power of nature. A geological interpretive trail runs through the gorge.
Cobblers’ Sunday
MEDMESTNI POTEPI Izberite svoj program!
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Each city and town is an experience of its own. But several along the way make a story that weaves new views of space and time into urban experiences. Link up a route of your own through Slovenia, or select one of three programmes that lead from cultural to natural features, from modern joie de vivre to the spiritual heritage of Slovenia. These programmes are offered in collaboration with selected travel agents by the Association of Historical Cities of Slovenia.
WALLED CITIES Preserved medieval city walls, which once ensured safety and survival, today stimulate the imagination with countless stories. A week is barely enough to immerse yourself in the finest glimpses of the past in Slovenia! Day 1 – Radovljica and Bled The castle avenue leads past the remains of the town walls, with their sole preserved defensive ditch in Slovenia, into the old town centre. The magnificence of the town is enhanced by special buildings such as the Šivec House, the Baroque Graščina Manor and museums, the Church of St. Peter and many others. A tour of the romantic ruins of Kamen Castle in Begunje is followed by a visit to the castle high up on the cliff above Lake Bled. Day 2 – Kranj and Škofja Loka
In Kranj, the city on a rocky promontory, you can experience the diversity of periods from prehistory, with its archaeological finds, to the 8th century, when the city was protected by walls and defensive towers, and up to the 19th century, when it was the home of France Prešeren, the pre-eminent Slovenian poet. In Škofja Loka open your eyes to the Gothic and Renaissance features of the town, which developed below the hill on which an imposing defensive fortification was already protecting the important trading route back in the 12th century. Day 3 – Koper At another end of Slovenia, in the seaside town of Koper, particularly under the influence of the Venetians some exceptional architectural traditions evolved, as
Radovljica
Koper
Choose your own programme! ____ 37 witnessed in the Praetorian Palace, the Loggia, Da Ponte well and other features.
Piran
Ptuj
Day – 4 Piran The first view of the birth place of the famous violinist Guiseppe Tartini is finest from the sea: on a boating excursion. But the truly picturesque quality of the town enclosed in walls with seven town gates and numerous churches can best be discovered by strolling through the narrow stone streets and attractive squares. Close to Piran are the old saltpans. Day 5 – Ptuj In the middle of the 13th century, Ptuj was officially awarded the status of a city and therefore the right to have city walls which connected city buildings, the Minorite Monastery and the Dominican Monastery and the Castle. The complex of Ptuj Castle which was one of most important fortification against the Turks, has preserved the old defence system. The Drava Tower in which the Mihelič Gallery has its premises, is the best preserved part of city forts in Ptuj.
Day 6 – Maribor and Celje Maribor, the second biggest Slovenian city, boasts Court, Water and Jewish towers along the Drava River, and these were part of the medieval city walls. Among the numerous features is a special reminder of the past, the Old Vine on the façade of a house in the oldest part of the city. The city of the Celje Princes, one of the leading families of south-eastern Europe, draws people with its special features such as the Old Castle, offering extraordinary views of the city and surroundings, the Old Counts’ Mansion with its Celje ceiling, a special illusionist painting and other traces from the period of the powerful family. Day 7 – Ljubljana This city, which was then called Emona, was protected in Roman times by an 8 metre high and 2.5 metre wide wall. Its remains are preserved according to the plans of Jože Plečnik, the famous European architect, whose work has marked all of Ljubljana. Visit the museums and galleries, stroll along the lively river embankments and bridges, and visit the central market.
Celje
Kranj
38 ____ Choose your own programme! ON THE PATH OF HAND - CRAFTED TRADITIONS The cities and towns where artisans of the medieval guilds once sold their wares at fairs, today still maintain the craft traditions, old-style dishes and music from past times. Around the fair towns there are often vineyards, and as you wander around the town and its surroundings you can stop at typical inns with local food and exquisite drinks.
Slovenske konjice
Day 1 - Tržič Tržič is a town in which around the end of the 19th century every other house had a shoemaker’s workshop. The traditions are preserved in Cobbler’s Sunday, one of the most popular events in this part of Slovenia.
Day 2 - Radovljica, Kropa, Škofja Loka, Kranj Radovljica will surprise you with the peculiarities of Slovenian beekeeping – in the beekeeping museum in the centre of town, in the gingerbread workshop and at the special apiary nearby in Breznica. Kropa is a town of ironworking and hand forging. The Blacksmith’s Museum and other features preserve the important technical heritage of Slovenia. The Loka
Choose your own programme! ____ 39
Day - 3 Idrija Idrija has the surprising heritage of the second biggest mercury mine in the world, exquisite Idrija lace and its unique cuisine. Idrijski žlikrofi (Idrija ravioli) are a protected EU brand!
Day 6 - Ptuj and Maribor In Ptuj, a city with its own vineyard, the oldest Slovenian wine cellar offers unique experiences. A special feature of the city with its own vineyard is its close connection to the surrounding hills, to Slovenske Gorice and Haloze and the preservation of many ethnographic traditions. Maribor, the city with the oldest grapevine in the world, also boasts one of the oldest and biggest wine cellars for many miles around. The city is inseparably linked to the Pohorje mountain range, which offers life in nature.
Day 4 - Piran, Sečovlje Exploring the Sečovlje saltpans you can discover the special life of the former salt harvesters, who can still be witnessed on special traditional occasions. A stroll through Piran reveals the fishing traditions of the town, which is protected by the Church of St. George. From the church a view opens up of the entire Bay of Piran.
Day 7 - Ljubljana In the capital city of Slovenia there are all manner of traditional experiences offered by the central market, which was designed by Jože Plečnik. Here you can taste a wide variety of Slovenian specialities. Along the Ljubljanica River you can also encounter stalls set up by modern craftsmen and artists.
Day 5 - Slovenske Konjice From the sea, across the unique landscape of the Karst, with its typical Karst pršut, a cured ham, and Teran wine, towards the east of Slovenia – to Slovenske Konjice, an enchanting town of flowers and wine. The hills with their typical zidanica wine-makers’ cottages offer a special experience.
Extra day – Prekmurje Extend your city experiences with a trip to Prekmurje, the region in the far northeast of Slovenia by the Mura River. In a land where storks come to roost and old mills turn, you can discover the traditions of truly special pottery.
Museum preserves the memory of the special medieval guilds in Škofja Loka: cobblers, potters, blacksmiths, bakers, butchers, tailors and many others. A tour of Kranj, which revives the mercantile fair customs and draws people with its diverse cultural and culinary features.
Idrijska čipka
Tržiški muzej
Brdo pri Kranju
Koper
40 ____ Choose your own programme! MYSTERIOUS POWER OF SILENCE A typical feature of the Slovenian landscape is the numerous churches on high points and in settlements, as well as the monasteries of various orders, which preserve a rich cultural heritage and around which revolve tales and legends. Discover the faith heritage of Slovenia. Day 1 – Novo Mesto, Šentjernej, Pleterje From Novo Mesto, where the Franciscans established a presence in 1472, after visiting the Church of St. Leonard and the monastery with one of the oldest libraries in Slovenia, you head off to Šentjernej, a market town with unique traditions. Close by is the only functioning Carthusian monastery of Pleterje. Here the monks produce outstanding fruit, honey, their signature viljamovka pear brandy and a truly special Pleterje wine. Day 2 – Kostanjevica na Krki, Jurklošter At Kostanjevica, a little town by the dreamy Krka River, there was already a Cistercian monastery here in the 13th century, and reconstructions and renovations over the centuries turned it into the biggest Baroque monastery in Slovenia. After being burned out in the
Škofja Loka
Second World War, the building later acquired a new brilliance. Today it houses an outstanding sculpture and painting gallery, and by the monastery there is an international forma viva installation. At Jurklošter, a village close to Celje, there is part of the wall from the former Charterhouse and Church of St. Maurice with a defensive tower. One special feature is the octagonal “horseman” bell tower on wooden roofing, which is a rarity by European standards. Day 3 – Slovenske Konjice, Ptuj Close to Slovenske Konjice, in the remote valley of St. John the Baptist, is the famous Žiče Carthusian monastery, founded back in 1160. Next to the renovated remains is Gastuž, the oldest inn in Slovenia, while the monastery boasts a herbal apothecary and the Otokar sparkling wine cellar. From here it is not far to Ptuj and its first Minorite monastery in Slovenia. The 13th century building acquired a Baroque appearance in later centuries. The rich library is a special feature of the monastery. Day 4 – Ivančna Gorica, Stična A visit to Ivančna Gorica and the Cistercian monastery of Stična. The mon-
Bled
Ljubljana
Maribor
Choose your own programme! ____ 41 astery, which is famed for its herbalist tradition, houses a religious museum.
added in the 18th century. In the summer there are numerous events here.
preserved Slovenian dramatic text, the Škofja Loka Passion, from 1721.
Day 5 – Hrastovlje, Piran In the Istrian village of Hrastovlje, behind a fortification wall from the 15th and 16th centuries is a medieval Romanesque church with a famous painting created around 1490. This most famous painting, a danse macabre, shows a dance before the grave with skeletons. In the picturesque seaside town of Piran there is a Minorite monastery with an outstanding cloister and picture gallery. The monastery, dating from 1301, was later adapted in the Baroque style, and the cloister was
Day 6 – Radovljica, Brezje, Škofja Loka Close to Radovljica, in the village of Brezje is the main Slovenian pilgrimage centre. In the Basilica of St. Vitus is the famous depiction of Mary Our Help, painted by Leopold Layer. Miraculous cures have been associated with the depiction. Nearby there is a Franciscan convent. The nuns of Brezje hold courses in cooking typical Slovenian dishes. In Škofja Loka, you can visit the Capuchin monastery with its rich monastery library, which houses the oldest
Day 7 – Ljubljana Ljubljana has a unique venue for events in the oldest monastery within the city limits – Križanke. Once a monastery of the Teutonic Knights, it was renovated according to plans by Jože Plečnik. Another location worth close attention is the Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity, which is regarded as the finest Baroque building in Slovenia’s capital city.
Idrija
Slovenia Historical cities - travel through time
information and Reservation: Kompas d.d., Pra탑akova 4, SI-1514 Ljubljana T: +386 1 2006 321 | e: sales@kompas.si
KoMPaS d.d. - General Sales Agent for historical cities of Slovenia (individuals and groups) www.kompas-online.net
oglas NAJPOT A5 ANG.indd 1
9/30/11 10:23 AM
www.adria.si
t s a p e h t g n i Br to life Masterpieces that have survived for thousands of years. Living stories written by time. The rich heritage that adorns Slovenia. All this was created by our ancestors. It is our task to see that it is not effaced. The Association of Historic Towns of Slovenia is an association of like-minded people dedicated to the conservation of the country’s cultural monuments. Together we inform, teach, share experiences, raise funds and collaborate on the renovation of old town centres. All with one single goal – conserving the things that give our country its soul.
Idrija / Koper / Kranj / Novo mesto / Piran / Ptuj / Radovljica / Slovenske Konjice / Škofja Loka / Tržič
PROVIDERS of Historical Cities of Slovenia
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Each town is experience for itself. Several towns on the way is a story which intervenes the experience with new aspects over space and time. Make your own way through Slovenia and stop by in any of the historic towns and discover the beauty of cultural and natural attractions, experience the beauty of living and the variety of cultural events and many and diverse culinary experiences. Slovenian historic towns will generously accept your open eyes.
VARIETY OF OFFER When you enter Slovenia, everything the old country has to offer is within your reach. Here snowy slopes kiss the seashore, lively vineyards wink at the placid nature, century-old ethnographic specialties flirt with the challenges of modern urban life. Here the hand of the past reaches for the hand of the future. Nowhere more than in historical cities are we so aware of time. The city streets are full of memories, co-
urtyards whisper almost forgotten stories, town squares picture happenings of the past in front of our eyes . Endless steps have been heard between houses, thousands of human destinies unfolded behind their windows, so many feet crossed their thresholds! We simply cannot resist being astonished by the rich history of these venerable ancestors. Even more charming is the experience that the historical cities live. Old-fashioned buildings are a picturesque stage of eternal youth, a never-ending living
jumble, with the hustle and bustle of new generations. Here creative energy perpetually flows, here the present is happening, here cultural wealth, which promises a beautiful future, is created. Here, travellers will experience countless surprises, the cultural history, diverse cultural events in town centres, a culture of living and shopping, comfort and culinary experiences. Take your time and taste the eternity of time and the diversity of space!
Legend
town core
bar
surroundings
handicraft
museum or gallery
accommodation
restaurant, inn
accesible for persons with disabilities spa
youth hostel
CELJE cultural heritage Stari grad Celje / Celje Old Castle TIC Stari grad, Cesta na grad 78, 3000 Celje T: 03 5443 690, E: stari.grad@celje.si www.grad-celje.com
Celje boasts the largest medieval castle in Slovenia, which reminds us of the most famous reign of the Counts of Celje. Memories and legends behind the magnificent medieval wall still live today, from May to October, when every weekend the animation event »Live History« takes place here. The medieval event, which lasts several days, peaks at the end of August.
Pokrajinski muzej Celje / Celje Regional Museum Trg celjskih knezov 8, 3000 Celje T: 03 4280 950, E: info@pokmuz-ce.si, www.pokmuz-ce.si
Zavod Celeia Celje - Center sodobnih umetnosti / Center for Contemporary Arts Galerija sodobne, umetnosti, Likovni salon, Galerija erotike – Račka Trg celjskih knezov 8, 3000 Celje T: 03 42 65 156 , E: galerija.celje@siol.net , www.celeia.info
Muzej novejše zgodovine Celje / Museum of recent history Prešernova 17, 3000 Celje T :03 428 64 10, E: info@mnzc.si, www.muzej-nz-ce.si
Slovensko ljudsko gledališče Celje / Celje's People Theatre Gledališki trg 5, 3000 Celje, T: 03 42 64 200, E: tajnistvo@slg-ce.si
cultural events Pravljično Celje / Fabulous Celje Zavod Celeia Celje, Krekov trg 3, 3000 Celje T: 03 428 79 36, E: tic@celje.si, www.celeia.info
In December, the festively decorated city is visited by fairy creatures, dwarfs and child heroes, who invite you to visit the Wonderland. Several concerts take place and the streets are full of the liveliness of the Christmas-New Year's Fair.
Poletje v knežjem mestu / Summer in the Prince town Zavod Celeia Celje, Krekov trg 3, 3000 Celje T: 03 428 79 36, E: tic@celje.si, www.celeia.info
From June to August, the city hosts the traditional cultural event, where hundreds of music, performing art, dance, art and film events take place. All corners of the city and the town beach by the embankment of the river Savinja and the magnificent scenery of the Old castle with concerts of renown musicians and events for all ages give the city charm and bring vivacity to summer-lazy streets.
culture of living La storia Celje Delikatesa d.o.o. Glavni trg 12, 3000 Celje T: 040 16 86 56, E: lastoria.ce@gmail.com
The house in the heart of Celje, where good food has always been served, is now home to the restaurant La Storia. The restaurant develops its culinary features in a modern way – everyday homemade ravioli, gnocchi made from spelt flour, pies made according to the recipes of our grandmothers are just a part of the restaurant's house specialties. They advocate a more healthy way of life, therefore they produce vegetables and herbs in their own garden. In summer months you can cool down in their garden and relax from the city's hustle and bustle.
CELJE culture of living Celjska koča, hotel ***/ Celje Hut Hotel *** Pečovnik 31, 3000 Celje T: 0590 70 400, 041 718 274 E: info@celjska-koca.si, www. www.celjska-koca.si
The hotel Celjska koča is a modern hotel (2006) located 10 km away from Celje. The hotel is adapted to families and individuals who want an active vacation. In winter, you can ski at the ski run on the Celjska koča, which was eight times in a row declared as the best small family ski run. In summer, you can experience adrenaline pleasures: summer toboggan run – bobkart, children's slide, climbing wall and EkoSmrkolandija – fenced playground for children, Zodiac path, mushroom and forest learning path. The playing room is in the restaurant as well. The restaurant offers domestic dishes and menus for the youngest visitors.
Špital za prjatle, PJT gostinstvo in turizem d.o.o. / Špital za prjatle Inn Slomškov trg 5, 3000 Celje T: 05901 67 60, E: spital.celje@gmail.com
In the 15th century, Prince Friderik III allowed local people to build the »Špital« in the old town core beside the Water tower and city walls. In the 16th century the chapel of St. Elizabeth was added to the »Špital«. The restaurant »Špital za prjatle« (Špital for friends) is now located in the renovated building. Here you can drink delicious coffee, read daily newspaper or browse the internet free of charge in a pleasant atmosphere and in the summer you can take a seat in the shadows of majestic trees.
MCC Hostel Zavod Celjski mladinski center / Celje youth centre Mariborska cesta 2, 3000 Celje T: 03 490 87 40, 040 862 009, E: info@mc-celje.si, www.mc-celje.si
MCC HOSTEL is located at the very centre of Celje near the railway and bus station and is an excellent starting point for exploring the city. The Youth hostel with its excellent exploitation of natural resources and ecological orientation follows the tradition of cultural heritage of Celje which is illustrated by eleven thematically equipped rooms. For larger groups and travellers we have 4 dormitories, for more demanding customers we have 7 thematic double and single rooms.
Čokoladni butik Celje, Čokoladni butik Stari grad / Chocolate Boutique Celje, Čokoladni butik Old Castle Vodnikova 11, 3000 Celje T/F: 03 544 36 35 E: info@vila-magnus.si, www.vila-magnus.si
The complete image of the Chocolate Boutique Celje reflects the delightful harmony of scents, tastes and shapes. Handmade products, pralines, griottes, ganašes, truffles, chocolate bars, caramelised and candied fruit, crocants and hollow figurines – both the design and the content of chocolate products exhibited in glass cabinets in the boutique are at the European level. In the Old Castle above Celje, in the so-called Barbara's corner, the chocolate products of Sladkosti iz Olimja have a special place.
Hotel Evropa**** Krekov trg 4, 3000 Celje T: 03 426 90 00, F: 03 426 96 20, E: info@hotel-evropa.si, www.hotel-evropa.si
The city hotel with its modernity attracts business and holiday guests in the very centre of the Prince town. The hotel offers 61 modern equipped rooms and a luxury apartment. In the hotel is a restaurant for every occasion, which pampers its guests with the variety of flavours with its distinctiveness and sophistication. For decades, the city café has been offering their visitors only the best – you just cannot resist sinfully delicious desserts! In the immediate vicinity of the hotel is the popular Pizzeria and Spagheterria Koper which attracts numerous guests with its hospitality – in addition to that, guests can relax in the shadows of bushy trees in the garden.
IDRIJA cultural heritage Mestni muzej Idrija / Idrija municipal museum Prelovčeva 9, 5280 Idrija, T: 05 372 66 00 E: tajnistvo@muzej-idrija-cerkno.si www.muzej-idrija-cerkno.si
The Idrija municipal museum, seated at the Gewerkenegg castle in Idrija, was proclaimed “The best European Museum of Industrial and Technical heritage in 1997«. It houses a permanent exhibition on the 500-year history of mercury mining and the town and a permanent exhibition of Idrija lacemaking. The museum also houses several monuments of cultural and technical heritage in the Idrija and Cerkljansko regions.
Antonijev rov, Muzej živega srebra / Antonius cave, Mercury museum Bazoviška ulica 2, 5280 Idrija, T: 05 377 11 42, E: antonijev.rov@volja.net, www.rzs-idrija.si
An unforgettable experience in Idrija is a trip to one of the largest Mercury mines in the world. The entrance to the Antonius cave is excavated through a remarkable building, called Selštev, where visitors watch the video story about the creation of the Idrija ore deposit, the development of the mine over the centuries and experience the unique life of a miner and his family.
cultural events Festival idrijske čipke / Idrija Lace Festival Občina Idrija, Mestni trg 1, 5280 Idrija T: 05 3734 500, E: obcina.idrija@idrija.si, www.idrija.si
The Festival is a traditional ethnological, economic, cultural, educational and entertaining event and represents an introduction to summer days. During those days, the city is visited by everyone who is fascinated by the Idrija lace. The festival events take place at various locations in Idrija.
Mednarodni center idrijske čipke / International Centre of Idrija Lace Prelovčeva 2, 5280 Idrija, T: 05 374 39 16, E: ticidrija@icra.si, www.idrija-turizem.si
In the International Centre of Idrija Lace it is possible to see a part of the travelling Idrija Lace exhibition which started its journey in Slovenia and abroad in 2004. The lace was made by members of the Idrija Lace Association. The exhibition presents the development of lace from old traditional lace to new lace. In addition to those it is also possible to see occasional products, which are made through research-developmental work in cooperation with female students of the Faculty of Natural and Technical Sciences, University of Ljubljana.
culture of living Pizzerija in bar Rondel / Pizzeria and bar Rondel Kajuhova 6, 5280 Idrija T: 040/593 442, E: samo.pelhan@siol.net
The Pizzeria and Bar Rondel are located in the pleasant room of the Gewerkenegg castle tower. A fairy tale which was carved on the wall by the renown artist Rudi Skočir takes you from the lower Bar to the upper floor of the pizzeria. Delicious pizzas and Idrija dumplings with almost magic sauces are served. In addition to that, premium Slovenian wines are offered. During hot days, the beautiful terrace offers a view over Idrija.
IDRIJA culture of living Gostilna pri Škafarju Bela d.o.o. / Škafar Inn Ulica sv. Barbare 9, 5280 Idrija T: 05 377 38 40, F: 05 377 32 40, E: info@skafar.si www.skafar.si
The restaurant with accommodation is located in the old town core in a beautifully renovated typical building of Idrija architecture. We serve always fresh dishes. Handmade Idrija dumplings, smukavc and bakala. In addition, we also offer a-la carte dishes, snacks and pizzas from a baker's oven.
Hotel Kendov dvorec / Hotel Kenda Manor Na griču 2, 5281 Spodnja Idrija T: 05 37 25 100, F: 05 37 56 475, E: info@kendov-dvorec.com, www.kendov-dvorec.com
The magnificent building of the former Kenda farm has been renovated and revived to evoke the spirit of ancient times. With the greatest pride and respect we display and preserve the rich tradition of our local surroundings. In the interior of the Manor, luxury and elegance are combined with a feeling of warm comfort and the friendliness of the staff creates a truly relaxed atmosphere. Guests have the feeling that they are truly welcome since they receive hospitality, peace and homely warmth. In 2000 the Kenda Manor became a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux Hotel Association.
Hotel Jožef Vojkova 9A, 5280 Idrija T: 08 2004 250, E: info@hotel-jozef.si www.hotel-jozef.si
The Hotel Jožef offers 11 modern equipped double rooms and a double hotel suite. In the restaurant of the Hotel Jožef you can eat meat, fish and local dishes with wines from the winery Jože.
Studio Koder Mestni trg 16, 5280 Idrija T: 05 372 23 03, F: 05 377 13 59, E: info@idrija-lace.si www.idrija-lace.si
We manufacture and design hand-made Idrija lace and textiles, which are related to lace for the interior decor and business gifts. In the Sales gallery, you can choose between traditional and modern Idrija Lace of the fashion designer Tina Koder.
TIC Idrija / Tourist information centre of Idrija Vodnikova 3 (at the bus station) T: 05 37 43 916, E: ticidrija@icra.si www.idrija-turizem.si
Welcome to the mysterious world of underground tunnels, wild waters and unique art of the Idrija region! TIC Idrija is your tourist guide to Idrija and the surrounding area. It offers you information on sights, local events, active leisure, accommodation, restaurants and Idrija lace.
KOPER cultural heritage Pokrajinski muzej Koper / The Regional Museum of Koper T: 05 66 33 570, F: 05 66 33 571 E: info@pokrajinskimuzej-koper.si www.pokrajinskimuzej-koper.si
The general museum of Koper is located in the baroque palace Belgramoni Tacco near the central city square. The lapidary and the museum garden are also a part of the palace. An ethnological collection is on display in the Venetian Gothic building at the corner of the historic core.
Obalne galerije Piran – Galerija Loža Koper / Coastal galleries of Piran – Gallery Loža Koper Titov trg 1, 6000 Koper T: 05 62 74 171 www.obalne-galerije.si
The Gallery Loža is located in the first floor of the town lounge. The building, constructed in the typical Venetian Gothic style from the 15th century is located at the main square of the old town core, opposite of the Praetorian palace.
cultural events Sladka Istra, Festival sladic Slovenije in sveta / Sweet Istria, Sweets festival of Slovenia and the world TIC Koper, Titov trg 3, 6000 Koper T: 05 6646 403, F: 05 6646 406, E: tic@koper.si, www.sladka-istra.si
On the sweet paths through the streets and squares of Koper in the old town core you can acquaint yourself with a wide selection of sweets, taste and buy desserts, sweet drinks and other sweet products from the Slovenian Istria, other Slovenian areas and also from foreign countries.
Gastronomski zakladi Istre / Gastronomic treasures of Istria TIC Koper, Titov trg 3, 6000 Koper T: 05 6646 403, F: 05 6646 406, E: tic@koper.si, www.zakladi-istre.si
A signpost of gastronomic events and menus which take the role of bearers of culinary tradition of Istria, to the delight of passionate eaters and lovers of gastronomic specialties.
culture of living Restavracija Skipper / Restaurant Skipper Kopališka ulica 3, 6000 Koper T: 05 626 18 10, E: emil.horvat@siol.net www.skipper-koper.com
The restaurant is located in the Koper Marina where you can sail towards excellent flavours at romantic sunset and enjoy the view of anchored boats.
KOPER culture of living Mestni stolp / City tower RR & CO, d. o. o. PE Koper, Kidričeva ulica 46, 6000 Koper T: 041 717 662
The bell tower of Koper or the City tower, which was once a Roman fortification and has served only as a bell tower since the 15th century is a very beautiful and attractive vantage point, to which 204 stairs lead to. The tower is 54 meters tall. At the height of 43 meters you can admire the view over the old town core and the entire surrounding of Koper.
Čokoladnica Da Ponte / Chocolate Shop Da Ponte Župančičeva 38, 6000 Koper T: 041 504 863, E: info@cokoladnicadaponte.si www.cokoladnicadaponte.si
The first chocolate shop in Koper got its name after the Daponte’s fountain which is located nearby. The chocolate shop has a small workshop and a neat store with chocolate products with more than twenty types of chocolate pralines where particularly chocolatinos stand out. Chocolatinos are made from white chocolate and milky and black chocolate, filled with blueberry, pistachio, strawberry cream with champagne and other interesting and delicious fills. Chocolate with lavender flavour is also offered in the chocolate shop. The specialties are chocolate with lavender, dark chocolate with salt flower, olive oil and pine nuts. In addition to chocolate, various types of tea and coffee of their own trademark are offered.
Kavama Loggia Koper / Cafe Loggia Koper Titov trg 1, 6000 Koper T: 05 673 26 89, F: 05 673 26 90
The cafe Loggia has everything what a typical city café should have. Guests can enjoy coffee to wake up in the morning or can choose to have a lighter breakfast. For those who like sweets, a wide range of cakes is available, also known as cupcakes. All wine lovers can enjoy a sip of domestic and foreign wines and spirits. From the terrace of the cafe Loggia you can enjoy looking at the Praetorian palace and church which together form the most beautiful city square on the area which was once Venetian.
Knjigama Libris, Antikvariat Libris / Bookshop Libris, Antique shop Libris Bookshop Libris Prešernov trg 9, 6000 Koper, T: +386 (0) 5 62 78 630 Antique shop Libris Repičeva 3, 6000 Koper, T: +386 (0) 5 62 60 247 E: info@libris.si , www.libris.si
The Bookshop Libris is an important cultural gathering place of all the people who like the written word. In the premises of the bookshop, numerous gatherings of Slovenian and foreign writers have been held. The Bookshop Libris is not just an ordinary bookshop, it is more than that, proven by highest national awards in the field of book selling. In 2000, an antique shop – a second-hand bookstore began to operate within the frame of the company Libris. In the premises of the antique shop events are held, since the place is designed in a way it can quickly be turned into a room for events.
STA Travel Cafe Koper Prešernov trg 2, 6000 Koper T: +386 (0) 5 72 15 820 E: info@sta-koper.com www.sta-lj.com/sta/sta-travel-cafe-koper
STA Travel Cafe Koper which is located on the historical Prešernov trg entertains world travellers and local adventurers in the centre of Koper with its cyber café and a mini gallery with an international touch. The Travel cafe is known among the youth for its special offer of individual travels, airline tickets and student and practice work abroad. The café is also famous for its travelogue lectures, which are an excellent addition to a cup of coffee.
KRANJ cultural heritage Gorenjski muzej / The Museum of Gorenjska Savska cesta 34, 4000 Kranj T: 04 201 39 50, E: info@gorenjski-muzej.si www.gorenjski-muzej.si
In the city of Kranj we invite you to visit the Prešeren Memorial Museum which is equipped with the original furniture of the famous poet. You can also visit the Town hall where you can take a walk through millennia of history of the region and see the most beautiful products of folk art. In the Prešeren’s award gallery you can see works of prize-winners.
Rovi pod starim Kranjem / The tunnels under the old town Kranj Zavod za turizem Kranj, TIC Kranjska hiša Glavni trg 2, 4000 Kranj T: 04 238 04 50, E: tic@tourism-kranj.si, www.tourism-kranj.si
In tunnels, which are 1300 meters long you can admire stalactites and cave animals. Visit the exhibition, which represents the underworld and tunnels of the old Kranj and the exhibition of minerals and fossils, plus the simulation of an shelter and air-strike. Various events take place in the tunnels over the year.
cultural events Kranfest Zavod za turizem Kranj, TIC Kranjska hiša Glavni trg 2, 4000 Kranj, T: 04 238 04 50, E: tic@tourism-kranj.si, www.tourism-kranj.si
In the last weekend of July, the Kranfest with the Kranj night takes place in Kranj. It is the largest summer event in the Gorenjska region which has been attracting visitors for 29 years. On more than 10 stages it offers music and sports events, theatre plays and programmes – everywhere, for all generations of visitors.
Jazz kamp Kranj / Jazz camp Kranj Gramus d. o. o. Cankarjeva ulica 14, 4000 Kranj T: 041 762 811, 04 2011 229, E: info@gramus.si www.gramus.si, www.jazzkamp.blogspot.com
Gramus d.o.o. is a company which sells music instruments and organizes music events. Its main task is the organization of the Jazz camp Kranj event, which will see its 8th performance this year. Since 2004, a large number of national and foreign professors and musicians have made an appearance within the frame of the workshops and the festival.
culture of living JGZ Brdo, Protokolarne storitve RS / JGZ Brdo Protocol Services of the Republic of Slovenia Predoslje 39, 4000 Kranj T: 04 260 10 00, E: brdo.recp@gov.si www.brdo.si
Slovenia holds its highest protocol meetings in the nature – at the Brdo estate which astonishes with its castle history, with venues of very important world and European meetings, with a congress centre, a hotel, excellent culinary offer, with a number of possibilities for relaxation at the golf course, a horse centre, fishing... Brdo is close to the capital and the airport and at the same time it is located where it has its natural peace.
KRANJ culture of living Hotel Creina Koroška cesta 5, 4000 Kranj T: 04 281 75 00, F: 04 281 75 99 E: info@hotelcreina.si, E: recepcija@hotelcreina.si www.hotelcreina.si
The Hotel Creina was built in 1970 according to the plans of the architect prof. Edvard Ravnikar and was declared as a historic and cultural monument. The hotel is located in the centre of Kranj in proximity of the sports centre from where it is possible to quickly reach the airport and the ski centre Krvavec. The hotel is fully renovated. A café and a restaurant are also in the hotel, where you can enjoy the domestic and international culinary offer.
Gostilna Stari Mayr / Stari Mayr Inn Glavni trg 16, 4000 Kranj T: 04 28 00 020, F: 04 28 00 025, E: mayr.doo@siol.net Taxi Mayr: 040 244 011 www.stari-mayr.si
The restaurant in the old town core has more than a hundred-year old tradition and boasts with excellent spoon dishes, such as goulash and tripes. Various types of steaks, salad dishes and homemade dumplings are also served; In summer months you can enjoy the beautiful season garden and taste grilled dishes.
Gostilna Kot / Kot Inn Maistrov trg 4, 4000 Kranj T: 04 202 61 05, E: gostilna.kot@gmail.com
The restaurant Kot is located in the old town core. It has a tradition that spawns several decades. We serve homemade dishes and dishes a-la carte. The most popular homemade dishes are homemade sausage in minced lard, spiced pork sausage, dumplings; dishes a-la carte which are served most are Kranj steak and buckwheat porridge with boletus. We prepare ceremonial lunches, dinners, weddings and anniversaries. Two restaurant rooms are also available in the restaurant. Each room can accommodate up to 40 people.
Kavarna Carniola, Rendez Vous Kavarna – slaščičarna / Cafe Carniola, Rendes Vous cafe – sweetshop Gregorčičeva ulica 2, 4000 Kranj T: 04 202 51 56, T: 031/041 631 501, E: rendez.vous@siol.net
When you roam the city core make sure you stop at the café and sweetshop Carniola to have a sweet dish or to eat a refreshing meal. While drinking good coffee, eating excellent homemade sweets and ice-cream you can browse through the daily newspaper and magazines. Home production permits that your imagination knows no limits. We deliver free of charge cakes for weddings and big celebrations.
Restavracija in kavarna Brioni / The restaurant and cafe Brioni Koroška cesta 10, 4000 Kranj T: 04/ 201 07 50, E: brioni@siol.com
In the bistro and cafe you can enjoy cakes made according to old recipes and in warm months home made ice-cream are served in the garden. In the restaurant you can send your tasting buds to pasture. Ingredients of the best quality are carefully arranged in exceptional dishes, premium wines just call to be drunk. In the lounge bar you can relax your thoughts and sail towards a new day while listening to a nice music.
Zavod za turizem Kranj TIC, Kranjska hiša / Tourist association Kranj, TIC, Kranj House Glavni trg 2, 4000 Kranj T: 04 238 04 50, E: tic@tourism-kranj.si www.tourism-kranj.si
In the Kranj house, which is managed by the Tourism institute of Kranj, is the TIC, a souvenir shop and a gallery. In addition to the free e-point, tourists, visitors and local residents are offered all information on tourism, culture, sport and catering industry in Kranj. Here you can receive free pamphlets with information on Kranj and Slovenia, order a city tour or a tunnel trip under the old Kranj or rent a bike.
NOVO MESTO cultural heritage Dolenjski muzej Novo mesto / Dolenjska museum of Novo Mesto Muzejska ulica 7, 8000 Novo mesto E: dolenjski.muzej@guest.arnes.si T: 07 373 11 30, www.dolmuzej.com
In the Dolenjska museum of Novo mesto which was founded in 1950 it is possible to experience the past of the Dolenjska Region and Novo mesto through exhibitions, museum workshops and other events. In addition to permanent exhibitions (archeological, ethnological exhibition and the exhibition of national liberation of the Dolenjska region and Jakčev dom) there are also various periodical exhibitions on display. Their themes are mostly connected with the history of the Dolenjska region.
Jakčev dom / Jakac House Sokolska ulica 1, 8000 Novo mesto T: 07 373 11 31, E: jakcev.dom@siol.net www.dolmuzej.com
Within the scope of the Museum of Dolenjska is also the Jakčev dom which is a memorial to one of the most famous Slovenian painters and graphic artists, Božidar Jakac (1899-1989). In addition to periodic exhibitions, visitors can also see permanent exhibitions: Permanent artistic exhibition of the Museum of Dolenjska, A collection of artistic works of Božidar Jakac and the artistic-pedagogic collection.
cultural events Novomeški poletni večeri / Summer evenings in Novo mesto Kulturni center Janeza Trdine Novi trg 5, 8000 Novo mesto T:07 393 0 390, E: info@kcjt.si, www.kcjt.si
The summer evenings in Novo mesto will include a programme of summer concerts, theatre plays, exhibitions, creative workshops and events for children. The events will take place on various locations in the very centre of Novo mesto. You can find more on www.veceri.novomesto.si. The organizer of summer evenings of Novo mesto is the cultural centre of Janez Trdina.
Teden cvička / The week of the Cviček wine Zavod za turizem Novo mesto Glavni trg 7, Novo mesto T: 07 39 39 263, E: tic@novomesto.si www.dolenjska.net
The event “The week of the Cviček wine” in the ambience of the medieval Main square in Novo mesto unifies and represents 31 associations and 5.400 wine makers of the Dolenjska region. More than 1.200 samples represent the biggest wine-tourist event in Slovenia. During the main event, it is possible to taste some of the best wines. The organiser of the week of the Cviček wine is the institution for tourism of Novo mesto.
culture of living Hiša kulinarike in turizma / House of Culinary and Tourism Glavni trg 30 , 8000 Novo mesto T: (sweetshop) 05 907 61 52, T: (restaurant) 05 90 76 150 E: hisa.kulinarike@gmail.com
The House of culinary and tourism is an exceptional building, mainly because of the restaurant, which has an excellent offer of food dishes and renowned Slovenian wines and sweetshops with the most beautiful and best sweets. A sign of its greatness is also the fact that it is located in the oldest town building on the square, which is completely renovated, with a wonderful atrium and a restored wooden ceiling. In the House of culinary and tourism a modern centre is in the making, intended for expanding the tourist offer and as a support to local providers of domestic, healthy food. In addition to the modern equipped conference room is also a shop with homemade dishes from nearby farms and the school estate.
NOVO MESTO culture of living Hostel Situla Dilančeva ulica 1, 8000 Novo mesto T: 07 394 20 00, T: 051 642 644 E: situla@situla.si, www.situla.si
The Hostel Situla is designed as a museum which serves as a place for living. The entire concept and the equipment of the hostel is linked to the period of art when situlas were made. With thematically equipped rooms the hostel acquires inspiration of the Hallstatt era and has converted the museum-like passing of history into a fresh and innovative approach. Guests feel the “Triumph” of the Hallstatt prince when they reside in, observe or just visit the hostel. With such experiences, travellers will promote Novo mesto as the city of situlas on future travels and when they arrive home.
Gostilnica in pizzerija Don Bobi / Restaurant and pizzeria Don Bobi Kandijska 14, 8000 Novo Mesto T: 07 338 24, T: 041 671 335 E: donbobi.info@gmail.com
The restaurant Don Bobi is located in the immediate vicinity of the town core. In a pleasant atmosphere, the restaurant offers excellent pizzas, various types of noodles, grilled meat, salad buffet and other a-la carte dishes. Freshly prepared desserts are offered as well.
Kompas Novo mesto Novi trg 10, 8000 Novo mesto T: 07 39 31 536, F: 07 39 31 539 E: kompas.nm@siol.net, www.kompas-nm.si
Novo mesto is embraced by the river Krka, on which the Rudolph’s raft plies. The ride around the old town core is a remarkable experience, accompanied by a diverse animation program. The trip on the raft also has a culinary offer. After rafting we invite you to take a walk through the town, to visit the cathedral, the Museum of Dolenjska...For those, who want to experience the rural beat we have a panoramic bus which drives you to vineyards, takes you to see the Story of the Cviček wine at the Matjaževa domačija, on a castle experience on the castle Struga...All those trips are organized by the most innovative tourist agency in Slovenia in 2007-2010.
TIC Novo mesto Glavni trg 6, Novo mesto T: 07 39 39 263, E: tic@novomesto.si www.dolenjska.net
In the Tourist information centre of Novo mesto you are offered information on the most interesting locations in the town and surroundings. Here you can receive information on accommodation, restaurants, events, entertainment, sport and other possibilities of active leisure. By arrangement, the TIC organizes a trip across the city of Novo mesto and the surroundings with the local tourist guide. The TIC also offers a wide selection of souvenirs. And for cycling fans, the TIC rents mountain bikes.
Hotel Krka Novi trg 1, 8000 Novo mesto T: 07 394 21 00 E: booking.hotel.krka@terme-krka.si www.terme-krka.si
The Hotel Krka is located in the centre of Novo mesto where visitors find numerous cultural monuments and sights. The location is also a starting point for discovering surroundings and taking walks on the soft hilly region of countless vineyards and several cottages. Hospitality and friendly staff await travellers and visitors in the hotel Krka.
PIRAN cultural heritage Muzej solinarstva / The Museum of saltwork Cankarjevo nabrežje 3, 6330 Piran T: 05 671 00 40, E: muzej@pommuz-pi.si
The museum of saltwork is located in the abandoned part of Sečovlje Salina on the right bank of the Giassi canal. It covers the Salina house with the museum collection and a salt fond with the canal for supply of sea water. The Salt house has three buildings: a two-storied house which serves as the residence for the family of the salt-worker and for storing salt, a ground-floor warehouse and a baker’s oven renovated according to the old method.
Krajinski park Sečoveljske soline / Sečovlje Salina Natural Parks Seča 115, 6320 Portorož T: 05 6721 330, F: 05 6721 331, E: info@kpss.si, www.kpss.si
The company Soline Pridelava soli d.d protects and preserves natural and cultural heritage in the region of the Regional park of Sečovlje Salina and manufactures salt in traditional way. Considering the coexistence of processes, the company provides a consistent development of that area. By executing measures to protect the natural valuables of the cultural heritage the company spreads awareness of importance on preserving the Sečovlje Salina Natural Parks.
cultural events Tartini festival Levstikova 7, 6330 Piran T: 031 419 016, T: 040 187 803, T: 040 612 551 E: info@tartinifestival.org www.tartinifestival.org
The Tartini Festival is an international music festival dedicated to Giuseppe Tartini, who was born in Piran. Tartini and the Tartini Festival represent a series of artistic events of excellent quality which take place from August to September in Piran, Izola and Koper and receive appraisal year after year among professionals and among visitors of the festival.
Piranski glasbeni večeri / Piran music evenings Avditorij Portorož-Portorose T: 05 67 66 777, E: info@avditorij.si, www.avditorij.si
“The Piran music evenings” is an international festival of top-notch chorus music with a 33-year old tradition. Their purpose is to continue with the music tradition beginning with the famous violinist and composer Guiseppe Tartini and Accademio dei Virtuosi from the 18th century and to strengthen cooperation with foreign partner countries. The festival is a synonym for the most elite concerts of chorus music in Slovenian Istria.
culture of living Turistična agenija Maona / The Maona tourist agency Cankarjevo nabrežje 7, 6330Piran T: 05 6734520, E: maonapiran@siol.net, www.maona.si
The Maona tourist agency Piran works with a positive attitude towards the environment and the cultural heritage. Above all, the tourist agency Maona Piran desires to contribute to the development of tourism which educates and is considerate. In addition to its basic tourist activity the agency strives to acquaint its guests with the cultural sights of the region, therefore the agency cooperates with all cultural institutions and organizes numerous events in Piran and Porotorož on its own. On trips, organized by the agency pleasure is in front of resting which means that tourists discover everything that is beautiful and what surrounds us.
PIRAN culture of living Hotel Tartini Tartinijev trg 15, 6330 Piran T: 05 67 11 000, E: info@hotel-tartini-piran.com www.hotel-tartini-piran.com
The hotel Tartini is located in the very centre of Piran. After the renewal of the Tartini’s square in Piran in 2008, the ideal location is especially sticking out, since the square is closed for traffic and is really magnificent. It takes only a step to the sea – or more accurately, to the old haven of Piran. The city beach is also nearby. In the hotel Tartini you can find everything you need for a romantic weekend or a vacation in a relaxed environment, for a planned event or celebration in a circle of friends.
Akvarij Piran / Aquarium Piran Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran T: 05 673 25 72, T: 05 671 32 41, E: akvarij.piran@guest.arnes.si www.pomorska-sola.si
The aquarium has its premises by the inner haven of the port of Piran on the Kidričevo nabrežje. It is the biggest aquarium in Slovenia where you can see 200 animals from the marine world; up to 140 different species of sea organisms can be admired. In a special room there is a big tank with sea sharks, mullets, sea basses...
Restavracija Pavel / Restaurant Pavel Gregorčičeva 3, 6330 Piran T: 05 674 71 01 www.portoroz.si/restavracija-pavel
The restaurants Pavel and Pavel 2 await you on the shore of Piran, close to the sea. Excellent Mediterranean dishes are prepared, particularly sea specialties. The restaurants will prepare for you unforgettable tastes of fresh sea dishes – various types of fish, lobster, crawfish, scampi, mussels, fish Carpaccio and many other delicacies – all those are reasons why guests like to return to the restaurant Pavel.
Restavracija Tri vdove Piran / Restaurant Tri vdove Piran Prešernovo nabrežje 4, Piran T: 05 673 02 91 www.portoroz.si/restavracija-tri-vdove
For all gourmets, the fish restaurant Tri vdove (Three widows) is located in the Gulf of Piran. By the promenade, which leads to the cape of Piran you can enjoy fresh fish dishes and observe the beautiful sea. On the outer terrace, which has enough space for up to 200 guests you can enjoy good food on hot summer days and quench your thirst with carefully selected wines and let yourself go to the summer breeze, which brings the scent of the sea.
Čokoladnica / Chocolate shop Tartinijev trg 5-6, 5000 Piran T/F: 05 6733100
Curious eyes of tourists cannot overlook the chocolate boutique on the Tartini square in Piran where chocolate products of renowned domestic trademarks “Giuseppe Tartini” and “Sladkosti iz Olimja” are sold. All chocolate products are made according to the rich legacy of recipes of Alfonz Videtič who worked as a pastry cook in Vienna until 1915. The chocolate products are made today in the idyllic village of Olimje in inland of Slovenia. The village of Olimje was proclaimed as the most beautiful village in Europe in 2009. You can nibble at pralines, griories, ganašejs, chocolate bars, caramelized and candied fruit and crocants.
PTUJ cultural heritage Pokrajinski muzej Ptuj –Ormož / Regional Museum Ptuj–Ormož Muzejski trg1, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 787 92 30, E: uprava@pok-muzej-ptuj.si, www.muzej-ptuj-ormoz.si
Regional Museum Ptuj-Ormož is a general museum with collections and departments for archaeology, history, cultural history, ethnology, with restorer’s workshops and other. It was established in 1893 when the Museum Association was set up in Ptuj and archaeological findings were exhibited in the former high school.
Kurentovanje / Carnival TIC Ptuj, Slovenski trg 5, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 779 60 11, E: info@ptuj.info www.ptuj.info, www.kurentovanje.net
The Carnival with diverse ethnographic mask Kurent or Korant is the most famous cultural. tourist and ethnographic event in Slovenian area and beyond. It has more than 50-year old tradition. Within this Festival more than 100 cultural and tourist events take place and they unite in a unique way art, tradition and ethnographic tradition.
cultural events Ptujske grajske igre / Medieval Day in Ptuj Muzejski trg 1, 2250 Ptuj, T: 041 684 910 E: cesarskokraljevi. ptuj@gmail.com
Medieval day in Ptuj is a social event which revives the history of the castle and the town; it shows the medieval culture of Ptuj, its famous and successful period of Middle Ages and Renaissance. In Ptuj Castle the wine feast takes place and this is the major traditional event for the promotion of wine culture and tourist offer – tourist road Srednje Slovenske gorice. The events take place first Saturday in September.
Poletni festival Art Ptuj / Summer Festival Art Ptuj
International cultural festival of music and modern art with numerous concerts, exhibitions, performances, public installations and other accompanying events and performances of well known Slovenian and foreign artists on several internal and external stages of the old town.
International Festival of Modern Art Art stays and International Music Festival Arsana
Jadranska ulica 4, 2250 Ptuj T: 059 955041, 030 617 767, E: info@arsana.si, info@artstays.si www.arsana.si, www.artptuj.si culture of living Hiša usnjarja Jerneja / The House of a Tanner Dravska ulica 13, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 787 74 47, E: info@rooms-silak.com
The House is located in the oldest part of Ptuj as mentioned in the documents, in immediate vicinity of the Ribič Restaurant. This part, known as tanner street »vicus cerdonum«, was mentioned in documents already in 1291. At that time, lots of tanner houses were located alongside the River Drava. Already in 1513 the House was mentioned in the Town statute of Ptuj. The House is a cultural monument and is completely renovated. Seemingly a simple house revels its beauty when you step inside.
PTUJ culture of living Hotel Mitra / The Mitra Hotel Prešernova ulica 6, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 787 74 55, E: info@hotel-mitra.si www.hotel-mitra.si
The Mitra Hotel is located below the Castle in the old town of Ptuj. It offers spacious and elegantly furnished rooms and the oldest café in Ptuj. Along with comfortable accommodation you can use a breakfast room, a lobby, café, three conference rooms, a Venus wellness, a rich Osterberger wine cellar and a relaxing atrium of the Hotel – Mitra Garden situated away from the street hustle. .
PP Gostinstvo / Perutnina Ptuj Catering Dravska ulica 9, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 749 06 20, T: 051 333 622, E: gostilna.pp@perutnina.eu www.perutnina.com
The main activity of the PP Catering Ltd is catering. We provide food everywhere: during the coffee break, at the cocktail party, proms and school farewell parties, sport events, family reunions, weddings, we provide finger food, cold buffet, warm buffet, barbecues, ...
Ptujska klet / Ptuj Wine Cellar Vinarski trg1, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 787 98 10, E: info@ptujska-klet.si www.pullus.si
Wine culture tradition in the oldest Slovenian town is as old as the town itself – almost 2000 years. Historical findings (amphoras, wine bowls) in the town and its surrounding bear witness to that. Upon the arrival of the Minorites to the town (1239), organized production and trade in wine begins. During the last few years, the cellar belongs to the most prosperous Slovenian cellars and with the trade mark PULLUS represents modern wines which are given highest awards at world competitions.
Terme Ptuj / Ptuj Thermal Spa Pot v Toplice 9, 2251 Ptuj T: 02 749 41 00, E: rezervacije@terme-ptuj.si, E: booking@terme-ptuj.si www.sava-hotels-resorts.com
Ptuj Thermal Spa is located along the River Drava, only few minutes walking from the old town. The pools with thermal water, tubes, a rich choice of wellness and accommodation in Grand Hotel Primus, apartments, bungalows, holiday houses and campsite invite you to enjoy your staying.
Golf Ptuj Mlinska cesta 13, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 788 91 10, E: golf@golfinvest-ptuj.si www.golf-ptuj.com
Only a stone’s throw away from the old town there is a golf course with 18 holes which is really something special due to its uneven terrain and several water obstacles. It extends over 50 hectares and it is distinguished for vast green plots and waters.
Ptujsko jezero - Morje na kopnem / Ptuj Lake – Sea on the Land Brodarsko društvo Ranca Ptuj, K jezeru, 2250 Ptuj T: 02 771 10 35, T: 041 791 005, E: info@ptujsko-morje.si, www.ptujsko-morje.si
Sea on land is a thought which comes to mind to most visitors in Ptuj when they see the Ptuj Lake. The water surface of 346 ha and 9 km long water way offers joy to surfers, scullers and amateurs. You can ride motor boats and scooters. You can also enjoy the panorama ride with a tourist boat called Čigra.
RADOVLJICA cultural heritage Muzeji radovljiške občine / Museums of the Radovljica Municipality Linhartov trg 1, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 532 05 20, E: mro@siol.net, www.muzeji-radovljica.si
Five museums under the auspices of the institution Museum of Radovljica Municipality give evidence on the cultural history of the area between the river Sava and the Jelovica tableland. Tourist can visit the Town Museum, Bee Museum, Šivčeva House Gallery, Blacksmith's Museum in Kropa and Museum of Hostages in Begunje in Gorenjska Region.
Turizem Radovljica / Tourism Radovljica Linhartov trg 9, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 531 51 12, E: info@radolca.si www.radolca.si
The Tourist office is located at the very entrance to the old town. We provide trips and sightseeing of the town and its surrounding, we offer a rich choice of local souvenirs, tourist information and room bookings. Each last Sunday of the month a Flea Market is organized from 9.00 to 13.00.
cultural events Društvo ljubiteljev stare glasbe / Association of Old Time Music Lovers Linhartov trg 1, 4240 Radovljica T: 041 271534
The Radovljica Festival is intended for old time music lovers and takes place every year in August at the traditional venues: in Radovljica Mansion, St. Peter Church in Radovljica and the Assumption of Mary Church in Velesovo.
Poletje na Linhartovem trgu / Summer on Linhart Square T: 04 531 51 12 Javni zavod Turizem Radovljica Linhartov trg 1, 4240 Radovljica T: 08 205 13 88, F: 08 205 13 36, E: info@radolca.si www.radolca.si
Entertainment events with live music starting at 6 p.m. will take place on the Square on Thursdays in June and August.
culture of living Penzion Kovač / Kovač Guesthouse Langusova 71, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 530 00 00, F: 04 530 0001, E: penzion.kovac@telemach.net, www.penzion-kovac.si
Kovač Guesthouse is situated in a calm village of Predtrg in the vicinity of a forest, 500 m far from the old city centre. The Guesthouse has 10 rooms (26 beds). All rooms have a bathroom, a mini bar, a TV (international channel), internet, a safe and air condition. The Guesthouse has a wellness, a conference room and own parking lot.
RADOVLJICA culture of living Šport hotel Manca / Manca Sports Hotel Gradnikova 2, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 531 4051, F: 04 531 4140, E: sport.manca@siol.net www.manca-sp.si
The Hotel has 16 rooms with bathrooms. All rooms have wireless internet access, cable TV, phone. Most rooms have a balcony with a view over Julian Alps and Karavanke. The guests can use a tennis course, outside pool with warm water, wellness and a big garden. They can also use bikes to go cycling to nearby places.
Alpski letalski center Lesce / Aviation Centre Javni gospodarski zavod ALC Begunjska 10, 4248 Lesce T: 04 53 20 100, F: 04 53 20 105, E: info@alc-lesce.si www.alc-lesce.si
While sipping your coffee on the terrace of the airport or enjoying the Sunday lunch you can observe sport planes and parachutists in the blue sky. Even a greater experience is a panoramic flight or a parachute jump. Do you dare?
Gostilna in prenočišča Kunstelj / Kunstelj Inn and accommodation Gorenjska cesta 9, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 531 51 78, F: 04 53 04 151, E: kunstelj@siol.net www.kunstelj.si
Traditional family-run hotel Kunstelj will convince you with delicious home made kitchen, interesting atmosphere, original wine cellar and wonderful view over Triglav and the River Sava Valley.
Penzion in gostilna Lectar, Lectarski Muzej / Lectar Guesthouse, Gingerbread Museum Linhartov trg 2, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 537 48 00, E: lectar.tradicija@gmail.com. E: info@lectar.com www.lectar.com
Lectar Guesthouse – Cosiness in medieval style and in familiar atmosphere will leave a permanent memory of your holiday in Gorenjska Region. We have 9 unique rooms with a terrace from where you will have a wonderful view over the mountains and the old town. Exquisite home made food. On the medieval square in Radovljica there is a 500 years old house – a very popular Lectar Inn. In a nice atmosphere in a shady garden you will be served traditional dishes. Gingerbread workshop and museum – Manufacture of gingerbread hearts has been a part of our tradition since 1766 and represents an important part of Slovenian cultural heritage.
Gostinstvo in trgovina Vinoteka Sodček / Catering and Trade Sodček Vinotheque Linhartov trg 8, 4240 Radovljica T: 04 531 50 71, T: 041 678 408, E: ales.cebasek1@telemachnet www.vinoteka-sodcek.si
The old bourgeois house is the Sodček Vinotheque. On the shelves of the shop there are wines representing all three wine-growing Slovenian regions. Diverse as the wine-growing region, such is also the offer of wineproducers. In the wine bar, testing of wines is served with Karst prosciutto and variety of cheese.
Gostilna in restavracija Avsenik / Avsenik Inn and Restaurant Begunje 21, 4275 Begunje na Gorenjskem T: 04 533 34 02, F: 04 533 41 64. E: avsenik@avsenik.com www.avsenik.com
You are welcome to stop by at Avsenik in Begunje in any season. The staff take after those who are thirsty, hungry, tired or sleepy because they can offer excellent food and home made wine as well as accommodation. In the hall called Pod Avsenikovo marelo (Under the Avsenik umbrella) every Wednesday and Friday traditional folk evenings are organised with Avsenik music. In the Gallery –Avsenik Museum you will meet music culture of the legendary Slovenian band – Brothers Avsenik Band.
SLOVENSKE KONJICE cultural heritage Žička kartuzija / Žiče Charterhouse Špitalič pri Slovenskih Konjicah 9 T: 03 759 31 10, T: 03 752 37 32, T: 051 444 141 E: zickakartuzija@siol.net
Carthusian monastery from 12th century houses a permanent exhibition of Žiče manuscripts, exhibition called A Step by Step, herb gardens with a shop, potter's workshop with a shop and Otokar's sparkling wine cellar. In summer here is the venue for artistic and spiritual event and concerts.
Mestna galerija Riemer / Riemer City Gallery Stari trg 15, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 759 31 10, T. 051 444 141, E: tic.konjice@siol.net , www.slovenskekonjice.si
The Gallery offers a permanent collection of a local entrepreneur Franc Riemer. On the area of 200 m2 you can admire more than 70 paintings by world famous Slovenian and foreign painters (Cezanne, Klimt, Rodin, Modigliani, Velasquez, Kobilca, Tisnikar, Jakopič). The oldest paintings date from 15th century and the most valuable one is the painting of the Leonardo Da Vinci Venitian school of art.
cultural events Tradicionalne prireditve / Traditional events Stari trg 27, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 759 31 10, T: 051 444 141, E: tic.konjice@siol.net www.knjiznica-slovenskekonjice.si
Cultural beat of the town keeps the tradition of ancestors alive. In April the legend of Konjice Dragon and a brave knight called George is revived; announcement of vintage in September means starting works in a vineyard, St. Martin feast in the beginning of November changes must into wine. The old town and the Town Square during that period live in the colours of tradition and history.
Poletni glasbeni večeri v Žički kartuziji / Summer musical evenings in Žiče Charterhouse Stari trg 27, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 759 31 10, T: 051 444 141, E: tic.konjice@siol.net www.knjiznica-slovenskekonjice.si
For several years now the magic atmosphere of Žiče Charterhouse has been hosting excellent guests, supreme musicians and performers. New Swing Quartet, Anja Bukovec, Vlado Kreslin, Rožmarinke String Quartet, Jararaja, Zoran Predin, Jan Plestenjak, Eroika, Nuša Derenda, Darja Švajger... are just some of them who had given unforgettable concerts. Every year new musicians are included in the chain of summer musical evenings which take place from June to August.
culture of living Pletarstvo Kalšek Štefan / Kalšek Štefan Wickerwork Žiče 62/a, 3215 Loče Občina Slovenske Konjice T: 03 57 63 445, T: 031 399 824 E: andrejpodkrajsek@gmail.com
The Kalšek Tourist Farm is busy with blending spirits, producing wine and with rare but interesting craft of wickerwork. They use withe to produce different products and they have received several awards, a certificate of Slovenian handicraft and a certificate form the Slovenian Chamber of Craft. In addition to see the wickerwork the visitors are invited to taste several types of spirits, liqueurs and wines.
SLOVENSKE KONJICE culture of living Zlati Grič - Zakladnica doživetij / Golden Hill – Treasury of Experiences Škalce 80, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 758 03 50, F: 03 758 03 78, E: info@zlati-gric.si, www.zlati-gric.si
A modern wine shop, a golf course, wine, sparkling wine, tasting of wines, sightseeing, an inn, Vinogradniški dvorec apartments, idyllic nature... Only a step above the Slovenske Konjice centre there is an estate Škalce which is under the auspices of the Zlati grič company. The estate produces grapes and wine, offers guided tours of the cellar and tasting, golf course, accommodation in the vineyard mansion and catering in the Grič Inn.
Čebelarstvo Žvikart / Žvikart Apicluture Mizarska ulica 21, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 575 55 23, T: 041 548 135 E: aleksander.zvikart@amis.net
You can see modern apiculture and taste various types of honey, cream honey spreads, honey spirit, honey cakes...You will listen to the stories about bees, about lives of bees, queen bees and drones. You will get to know the secrets and healing effects of the »God's food««.
Gostišče Gastuž / Gastuž Inn Špitalič 9, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 752 37 00, T: 041 674 394 E: marguc.sandi@siol.net
Gastuž Inn is the oldest inn on the Slovenian territory, its history dates back to year 1467. The Inn offers different delicious dishes based on Chartusian recipes that include herbs. The Inn is also known for its game specialities and medieval banquets.
Pub Beli konj / White Horse Pub Stari trg 6–8, 3210 Slovenske Konjice T: 041 675 697, F: 03 575 4155
The Pub is located in the old town of Slovenske Konjice in an old renovated bourgeois house from 1589 where used to be a hundred year old tradition of tannery and shoe manufacture. The Inn offers a wide variety of drinks served in the pub or in a beautiful garden with 200 chairs. Their motto says »always in a gallop«.
PALADA d.o.o. Bezina 6/c, 32410 Slovenske Konjice T: 03 759 1391, T: 041 620 716, F: 03 759 1390, E: viva.sana@siol.net
Carthusian monks were given a special position for their natural healing activities. Those were mentioned already in 1185. In the shop their own herb products are provided; they are made of herbs growing in their garden located in front of the monastery. Groups can taste herbal drinks and spreads.
Penzion Kračun *** in Medicinsko-estetski & wellness center Lucija / Kračun Guesthouse and Lucija Medical & wellness center Slomškova ulica 6, 3215 Loče, T: 031 343 006, T: 03 759 06 08 E: info@kracun.si , www.kracun.si
Kračun Guesthouse is located in the embrace of nature in the heart of Dravinjska Valley, surrounded by vineyards and forests, and offers an excellent opportunity for supreme lunch, dinner or birthday parties, anniversaries, weddings, business lunch, seminars... On the same location in the village of Loče pri Poljčanah and among the greenery of intact nature there is also Lucija Medical & wellness centre. It offers a rich variety of wellness and other services which will satisfy even most demanding guests. You can receive face and body treatment, professional cosmetics, relaxing massage and sauna. Esthetical part of wellness is a laser technology EIos.
ŠKOFJA LOKA cultural heritage Kapucinska knjižnica Škofja Loka / Škofja Loka Capuchin order Library Kapucinski trg 1, Škofja Loka T: 04 512 09 70, T: 04 506 30 05 (library), T: 051 313 055, E: marta.gartner@rkc.si
The library has more than thousand old books and some manuscripts. The Škofja Loka passion - Processio Locopolitana written by Romuald Marušič in 1721 is the oldest baroque stage play in Slovenian language.
Sokolski dom, Kulturna dvorana in Galerija / Sokol House, Culture hall and Gallery Mestni trg 16, 17, Škofja Loka T: 04 512 10 78, T: 040 551 213 E: sokolskidom@skofjaloka.si , www.sokolskidom.si
All year round rich cultural events take place in Sokol House and three types of subscriptions play the main part: Crystal subscription, Subscription Young musicians and Subscription for Children. In the entrance hall there is a modern place for expositions and a gallery where each month a new interesting exhibition of Slovenian artists is on display.
Nacetova hiša / Nace house Puštal 74, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 0 41 769 425 E: marko.sabothy@t-2.net www.nacetovahisa.com
Nace house and the homestead is a cultural monument of national importance. It was built in 16th century and in 1755 it got its baroque look. This house takes visitors with its furniture and black kitchens to the life of a farm family from the 18th century until today. Visit the homestead, black kitchen and home collection (call in advance). Upon agreement the guests may be served home specialities.
cultural events Pisana Loka / Colourful Loka Razvojna agencija Sora, Spodnji trg 2 Turizem Škofja Loka, Kidričeva cesta 1a T: 04 517 06 00, T: 051 427 827, E: info@skofja-loka.com www.skofja-loka.com Historial Škofja Loka / Škofja Loka Historial Razvojna agencija Sora, Spodnji trg 2 Turizem Škofja Loka, Kidričeva cesta 1a T: 04 517 06 00, 051 427 827 E: info@skofja-loka.com, www.skofja-loka.com culture of living Kavarna Homan / Homan Café Mestni trg 2, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 30 47, E: kavarna.homan@siol.net www.skofja-loka.com
Under the trade mark Colourful Loka many cultural and social events take place all year round in the old town: concerts, workshops, plays etc. which attract local people and many tourists. In winter this is a traditional programme of White December and in summer these festivals are called Colourful Loka.
The Škofja Loka Historial takes its inhabitants and visitors centuries back when Freising lords reigned and the Loka Square was the main stage for vivid trade between the citizens and people from nearby towns, and the craftsmen manufactured their valuable products for every day use and for sale in their guild workshops. At that time music was indispensable and therefore historic performance is accompanies by the Festival of historic music.
The Homan Café is located in a nice atmosphere of the most beautiful bourgeois house on the medieval square which turns into a summer garden under a 100 year old lime tree. They offer delicious home made cakes and pastry, fresh home made ice cream, excellent Illy coffee and other.
ŠKOFJA LOKA culture of living Kavarna Vahtnca / Vahtnca Café Mestni trg 31, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 14 79, www.vahtnca.si
You are warmly welcome, all citizens and visitors of this thousand year old town who like to drink your first morning coffee in a calm and nice atmosphere, have a savoury croissant and read a newspaper. Welcome all those who will spend the day to meet your friends in a summer garden and welcome all night owls who cannot sleep and will finish a successful day with a coffee.
Picerija Jesharna / Pizzeria Jesharna Blaževa ulica 10, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 25 61 E: bojan@trampuz.si www.skofja-loka.com
On the right bank of Selška Sora, just at the entrance into the old town you can smell freshly baked and delicious pizzas from the Jesharna Pizzeria. In summer the pizzas are served in magnificent medieval house and very close to the river bank so the culinary joys mingle with the beauty of space and sounds of running water.
Hotel Garni Paleta Kapucinski trg 17, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 64 00, T: 041 874 427 E: info@hotel-skofjaloka.si, E: paleta.art@siol.net www.hotel-skofjaloka.si
Hotel Garni Paleta – a hotel in the centre of the old town – an excellent starting point for hiking, skiing, cycling and day trips. Hotel Garni Paleta is located in the old town of Škofja Loka where most tourist attractions can be seen, on a calm and romantic place along the river with a view over the Castle. In the vicinity of the hotel are several restaurants, pubs and shops. The hotel has its own free parking lot and a garage for motorbikes and bikes. We rent bikes, offer transport to the airport and from the airport and organize trips over Slovenia.
Gostilna in pizzerija Kašča / Kašča Inn and Pizzeria Spodnji trg 1, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 43 00, E: kasca-plevna@siol.net www.kasca-plevna.com
In a former medieval granary where stocks of food used to be stored for inhabitants of Loka and neighbouring towns is an excellent inn and pizzeria which takes care that the local people, visitors and tourists are not hungry. Excellent kitchen prepares Slovenian dishes as well as a wide range of other national dishes; along with the food selected Slovenian wines are served.
Turistična kmetija / Tourist Farm Turizem Loka, Stara Loka 8a, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 515 09 86, T. 040 354 635, F: 04 515 09 87 E: info@loka.si, www.loka.si
Loka tourist farm is only 400 metres away from the old town of medieval Škofja Loka. In addition to accommodation in modern rooms and apartments (shower, toilet, cable TV, phone, WIFI, air condition) we serve delicious breakfast, we offer an opportunity to relax in a small wellness centre with sauna and whirlpool, we organize trips. We have our own parking lot, a garden with toys for children and a grill for barbecues.
Turistično društvo Škofja Loka, Turističnoinformativni center / Škofja Loka Tourist Association Mestni trg 7, 4220 Škofja Loka T: 04 512 02 68, E: td-skofja.loka@siol.net www.skofjaloka.info
Škofja Loka Tourist Association will provide you with a number of tourist information about cultural events, historical attractions, a city map and possibility to have a guided visit, a photo gallery and more, and in particular a big store with souvenirs from Škofja Loka and its surrounding.
TRŽIČ cultural heritage Tržiški muzej / Tržič Museum Muzejska 11, 4290 Tržič T: 04 59 23 810, E: trziski.muzej@siol.net www.trziski-muzej.si
cultural events
The Administration and permanent collections of Tržič Museum are located in the upper part of the old town, along the river Mošenik in a former craftsmen mansion of a renowned and numerous family Pollak, in a so called Pollak kajža. Supported by local people, it has developed into a public professional institution which collects and protects movable natural and cultural heritage and life of people on the whole area of the Tržič Municipality. They want to strengthen cultural integration with local environment and spread expert knowledge about own culture and natural heritage also beyond the local borders. They take care of the museum collections and Kurnik House and Partisan printing house of Kokra detachment. In a former school building in Leše they see over the astronaut collection and items from the legacy of weaver family from Leše called Matrnek.
Šuštar ska nedelja / Shoemaker’s Sunday TD Tržič, Trg svobode 18, 4290 Tržič T: 04 59 24 730, E: tdtrzic@siol.net www.e-sustarskanedelja.si
On Angel Sunday, that is first Sunday in September, the streets of Tržič become lively and kindly accept numerous visitors. This event is no longer just a fair but also a town of Slovenian craft, Slovenian food, sport, fun, education and joy.
Svetovni festival tržiških bržol / Festival of Tržič Food TD Tržič, Trg svobode 18, 4290 Tržič T: 04 59 24 730, E: tdtrzic@siol.net www.brzoljada.si
Third Saturday in June in Tržič you can smell and taste Tržič Bržola. The purpose of the festival is to promote famous Tržič food between the visitors, especially young visitors. The teams compete in cooking bržola (mutton) in a pot on the open fire, artisans and antique dealers introduce themselves, the youth designs products in a workshop, the visitors compete in old social games, the musicians from Tržič play the music.
culture of living Turistično promocijski in informacijski center Tržič / Tržič Tourist Centre Trg svobode 18, Tržič T: 04 597 15 36, T: 051 627 057, E: informacije@trzic.si www.trzic.si
Tržič is rich with natural and cultural heritage which is attractive for anyone who wants to relax in calm natural beauties. The old town with preserved historic monuments gives a special charm to the town. The Tourist and promotional centre in Tržič gives information on the tourist offer in the city and its surroundings, on organized and guided trips and there is also a well-off souvenir shop.
Dovžanova soteska - naravni spomenik / Dovžan Gorge – natural monument Trg svobode 18, Tržič T: 04 597 15 36, T: 051 627 057, E: informacije@trzic.si www.trzic.si
Dovžan Gorge has been since 1988 protected as a natural monument. The River Tržiška Bistrica has found its bed here and in a colourful variety of crockery between 25 and 300 million years old. Fossils, fossilized plants and animals are still preserved in a pink and black limestone. Often torrential river falls over white blocks of flint stone and makes a wonderful waterfall which charms the visitors.
TRŽIČ culture of living Kavarna Špela / Špela Café Trg svobode 18, 4290 Tržič T:04 596 39 00, E: rcrikli@siol.net
The Café in the old town, in the atrium of the Tržič municipality with a long tradition. According to the testimonies of the inhabitants, this is the best coffee in the town. You can also have pastry and sandwiches and in summer many parfumes of ice-cream. Large heated terrace, weekend parties with live music, broadcasting sports events on big screens. In summer on the terrace and in winter inside. Free wireless internet access. Excellent point for stop-over after or before the visit of Dovžan Gorge and the surrounding. It is often said that you have not been to Tržič if you did not visit the Špela Café.
Gostilna Pr'Krvin / Pr'Krvin Inn Nataša Jakovac, s. p. Slap 12, 4290 Tržič T: 04 592 20 60, E: jutovec.urska@gmail.com
Pr'Krvin Inn has been known to local people and the carriers who took the wood from Jelendol and Lom pod Storžičem since 1874. The Inn was caught in fire and burned down but it was soon renovated. The Inn got its name PrKrvin for a simple reason – it is located on the bend, its old name is »krvina«. The Inn is located only 1.3 km from the Tržič centre, at the crossroads for Jelendol and Lom pod Storžičem and 2.3 km from a famous Dovžan Gorge.
Gostišče Koren / Koren Guesthouse Damjan Štefe, s. p. Podljubelj 297, 4290 Tržič T: 04 596 22 75, T: 041 467 459, E: damjan@stefe.si
This Guesthouse which is located in the shelter of Karavanke will spoil you with game specialities, trout, mutton and traditional spoon food. There are 26 beds (dormitories) available. Within the Guesthouse there are also an adventure park and a wood house for parties; the location is a good starting point for hiking to nearby mountains. If you want to taste delicious food and spend your time actively, then you are welcome!
Discover the Secrets of Charming Historic Towns of Slovenia www.zgodovinska-mesta.si
Maribor
European Capital of Culture 2012 'As Mayor of the city of Maribor I am proud that in 2012 the city will dress itself in the colours of cultural creativity and progress. I am pleased that Maribor, once an industrial city, is acquiring a new image. The ECC 2012 project is the most important event in the country since Slovenia's Presidency of the European Union.'
Maribor and its partner towns in the European Capital of Culture 2012 project
Franc Kangler, Mayor of Maribor
Its position at the crossroads of German, Hungarian and Slovenian culture, where the Alps meet the Pannonian Plain, has given the city its special character. Maribor boasts a 3000-year-old cultural tradition and a modern cultural programme. A rich historical heritage, art, sports, tourism, gastronomy and wine offer visitors to Maribor outstanding cultural experiences. The common thread of the ECC 2012 project is the slogan 'Clean Energy', which incorporates an understanding of culture as an active factor of social change and developmental regeneration, in other words the cultural flowering of a broader region of Slovenia. Maribor will undergo a regeneration in the spatial planning sense during the implementation of the ECC 2012 project. The scenario envisages numerous changes and improvements based on the river Drava area as the generator of the spatial development of the city. It envisages the transformation of the heart of the city into an attractive urban nucleus with clearly identifiable spatial connections leading into it.
In 2012 Maribor will bear the title of European Capital of Culture (ECC 2012) along with its five partner towns (Murska Sobota, Ptuj, Slovenj Gradec, Velenje, Novo Mesto). During the ECC 2012 project the city will be visited by almost a million more tourists than usual, with up to 700,000 more overnight stays and almost 4,000,000 visitors, all of whom will be able to enjoy a rich and varied programme. The ECC 2012 project represents a development opportunity for the whole of eastern Slovenia and a chance to put itself on the map of developed European regions.
www.slovenia.info Slovenian Tourist Board Dimičeva 13 | SI - 1000 Ljubljana tel.: +386 1 589 85 50 fax: +386 1 589 85 60 e-mail: info@slovenia.info
www.zgodovinska-mesta.si Association of historical cities of Slovenia Mestni trg 15 | SI - 4220 Škofja Loka tel.: +386 4 511 23 46 fax: +386 4 511 23 18 e-mail: info@zgodovinska-mesta.si
This catalogue is printed on environmentally friendly paper Help protect the environment – Don’t throw it away, give it to a friend! Published by: Združenje zgodovinskih mest Slovenije/ Editor: Mateja Hafner-Dolenc / Design: KošorokGartner Arhitekti d.o.o., Simon Pavlič / Page layout: KošorokGartner Arhitekti d.o.o, Simon Pavlič / Text: RISO Zavod / Translation and language editing: Anglist Milena Žuran s.p., Tanja Ostrman Renault s.p. / Photographs: Arhiv Slovenske turistične organizacije, arhiv turističnih destinacij Celje, Idrija, Kamnik, Kranj, Koper, Ljubljana, Maribor, Piran, Ptuj, Radovljica, Slovenske Konjice, Škofja Loka, Tržič, Arhiv Narodni dom Maribor, Airfoto, B. Cvetkovič, B. Farič, Č. Goznik., L. Hmeljak, J. Humar, S. Jeršič, J. Jocif, M. Kambič, G. Katič, B. Kladnik, K. Kunaver, M. Kunšič, T. Lauko, M. Lenarčič, M. Mlinar, J. Nastran, B. Okorn, J. Peternelj, M. Petrej, P. Petrignani, J. Pivka, K. Razlag, S. Trebižan, M. Vranič, B. Zelnik, N. Žgank, S. Živulović – Bobo. / Printed by: Tiskarna Ekart d.o.o. / Impression: 55.000, Oktober 2011 / Cover: Škofja Loka ted by: Tiskarna Ekart d.o.o. / Impression: 55.000, Oktober 2011 / Cover: Koper