The successful year of heritage-inspired events and programmes in Slovenia has reached full swing with the launch of European Heritage Days on 22 September in Bled. Opening the 28th edition of the festival, more than 30 events dedicated to the cultural heritage of the city and its surroundings took place on Saturday.

The spectacular beginning will be followed by over 400 events that are taking place throughout the country until 6 October. With the theme Our heritage: where past meets the future, the festival promises an incredible cultural experience provided by numerous museums, galleries, archives, cultural institutes, libraries, local communities, schools, and individuals.

Visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the history of textile industry in Lasko, taste the traditional spirit of Lipjan region at the Grilova domacija eco-museum, and join numerous other activities. Below are some of the highlights of this year’s festival.

Karavanke Geopark Tour with Franz and Marica

On 28 September, schoolchildren will be able to join Franz and Marica, popular heroes from the Karavanke Geopark, on a walk to the place’s past and the future. The rich, geological variety of Karavanke Geopark that is located between the Alps and Dinarides provides plenty of resources for the explorations of natural heritage.

The visitors will enjoy a workshop at the INFO Center at the Petzen underground, where they will have a chance to create unique geo-souvenirs. The workshop will be followed by an adventurous walk along the Meza River. Finally, the children will try out the golf disc and learn how to use the mobile application “CŠOD MISIJA: Mežica Geological Hiking Trail” to explore this vivid small town lying on the border with Austria.

The Breath of Goriska Nature

An inspiring participatory event will be organised in Godovic in the Goriska region on 4 October. In addition to enjoying the beautiful natural backdrop, visitors will be able to learn about the different medical plants and their healing effects. They will even be taught to make their own cream, ointment or soap using traditional skills.  

Ivana Kobilica at the National Gallery

Marking the centenary of the National Gallery, an exhibition of the works by Ivana Kobilica will be displayed on 30 September. The public is invited to admire and analyse the art of one of the most prominent Slovene female painters who is recognised as the leading figure of Slovene cultural identity. The exhibition will also highlight the transcending character of her art that manages to spark interest time and again.

With these and hundreds of other events, Slovenia will provide a new perspective on heritage preservation in a local and a European dimension, promoting local heritage as a part of cross-cultural narrative. The events will highlight the role of common heritage in shaping a diverse and harmonious cultural space.

Follow the entire year of heritage events in Slovenia on the website of The Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia or on the event’s Facebook page.