The Republic of Slovenia is a small, cozy state located in the outskirts of Europe. In a small area, the proud Alps, the Adriatic Sea, dense forests and deep lakes peacefully coexist.
Country history
The first settlers appeared on the territory of the modern state about 250,000 years ago. Illyrian and Celtic tribes lived here during the Iron Age, and the Slavs came only in the sixth century AD. In the seventh century, the country received the name Warranty and became part of the Franks empire. In the 14th century, the state became part of the future Austro-Hungarian Empire, and during the Napoleonic Wars - into the French Empire. After the First World War, part of the Slovenian lands went to Italy, and everything else - to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Slovenia remained part of Yugoslavia as a result of World War II, but in 1990, most residents voted for independence. In 1991, it became an independent state; in 2004, it joined NATO and the European Union. The currency of Slovenia began to be called the euro, and residents began to actively join the European standards.
Capital of Slovenia
For its beauty, the capital of the country Ljubljana received the affectionate name "little Prague". This not too large European-sized city is located at the foot of the Julian Alps, on the banks of the Ljubljana River. It is believed that the best time in the capital is July or August, when the thermometer rises to 25 degrees. Locals prefer to walk around the city on foot, and if they are in no hurry, they can get around it in just one day. In addition, vehicles are strictly prohibited in some areas of Ljubljana.
The capital of Slovenia is conditionally divided into an old and a new city, each of which is good in its own way. One of the most famous places is the ancient castle of Ljubljana Castle, located on a hill. It is from here that a wonderful view of the whole city opens. The next attraction, which residents of the capital are proud of, is Prešeren Square, named after the famous poet. Everything here is permeated with the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, thanks to the preserved architecture and layout of buildings. Facts about the history of the country are carefully stored in museums in Ljubljana. In addition to the Historical Museum, there is even a Beer Museum and a Tobacco Museum. The metropolitan youth does not like to be bored and spends time with pleasure in night clubs, attends discos and concerts.
Maribor
The second largest city in Slovenia is known as the center of the historical region of Lower Styria. It is officially believed that it was formed in the 13th century, although mention of it in the annals is much earlier. Since then, the city has been actively developing and growing. Today it is one of the most significant shopping centers in the country. In addition, in its surroundings are located one of the largest ski centers and the famous thermal treatment centers. Among the famous sights of the city, one can distinguish the main square, in the center of which in the 18th century a memorial column was established in honor of the end of the plague. Here are the church of St. Alloysia of the 18th century and the church of St. Barbara of the 17th century. The famous University of Maribor began its existence less than a hundred years ago, but has already become widely known in its country and abroad. More and more graduates of Slovenian schools choose his programs and continue their studies within its walls.
Cele
The third largest city in Slovenia is a real gem of this country. First of all, it is famous for its magnificent Celsky Castle, built in the 14th century. Every year, residents of the city arrange a cheerful, noisy carnival. Trying to recreate medieval life, they dress in historical costumes, arrange balls and hold knightly tournaments. In addition to it, here you can see the ruins of the ancient Roman walls and a whole archaeological park in the open.
Slovenian currency
Back in 2007, the euro became the state currency. Slovenia no longer needed a tolar, which at one time replaced the Yugoslav dinar. Guests of the country boldly exchange money at banks, hotels, travel agencies, exchange offices and post offices.
Interesting Facts
- Time in Slovenia is one hour behind Moscow in the summer and two in the winter. This should be taken into account by tourists.
- The population of Slovenia is approximately 1.9 million people.
- Sea resorts, spas and ski resorts - this is what little Slovenia attracts tourists to.
- The language recognized by the state is Slovenian. Along state borders, the official languages are also Hungarian and Italian.
- More than 75% of the local population consider themselves Catholics.
- Slovenia is a parliamentary state headed by a president who is elected for five years.
Slovenian culture
Art and culture occupy a special place in the hearts of the inhabitants of this small country. The fact is that Slovenia too often passed under the leadership of strong states and too often risked losing its identity. That is why, from childhood, Slovenes learn national songs and dances, folk festivals are constantly held in the country and folk holidays are celebrated. Local residents are also not indifferent to such religious holidays as Christmas and Easter.
Medieval spirit
On the territory of this small country there are many ancient castles and palaces. Today, they have museums and concert halls. Locals love holidays and honor ancient traditions. Before Christmas, they put on scary costumes and walk from house to house, portraying the dead this year. It is believed that compliance with this tradition brings people happiness and success in business. At the Fertility Carnival, people also dress up in folk costumes and wear scary masks to scare away the boring winter. But the most striking and spectacular festival takes place on Maslenitsa, which in Slovenia is called Pust. Mummers walk around the house, carnival processions are held everywhere, and ceremonial weddings are played.
Slovenian cuisine
You can eat in this country anytime, anywhere, because even in the smallest village you can find a restaurant or cafe. Catering establishments here are divided into classes, which, unfortunately, do not always reflect the real situation. Among the masterpieces of national cuisine, tourists usually distinguish pork sausages, "strukli" (balls of pastry stuffed with minced meat) and dried ham "prshut". Among the well-known Slovenian desserts, there are “sweats” (pies with nuts), “gibanitsa” (puff pastry with poppy seeds, nuts, raisins, apples and cottage cheese, sprinkled with butter or cream), as well as “cream shnit” (puff pastry cake with air cream and vanilla cream).
Transport
The small state of Slovenia boasts well-established transport links. You can get to any point of any city by bus. Tokens for traveling on this inexpensive and very convenient form of transport are sold in all newsstands, as well as directly at the conductor. Residents of cities often use unlimited travel cards designed for one week. The railway connection is excellent here, and by train you can get to almost anywhere in the country by buying a ticket at the railway ticket office, tourist office or in the train itself. Those who prefer to travel by their own transport can use their own car or rent at special points. For rent, it is enough to present a credit card of any bank or make a deposit, which depends on the make of the car. The following necessary conditions are age over 21 years and the presence of an international driving license issued at least one year ago.
sights
Despite its small size, Slovenia boasts a huge number of interesting and even unique places. Amazing nature, unique lakes, high mountains and a piece of the sea inspire the inhabitants of the country and its guests to return to these beautiful places again and again. Cities of Slovenia amaze travelers with their unusual architecture, ancient monasteries, temples and abbeys. Also, one can not help but mention the national park, the labyrinth of the Postojna cave, which stretches for as much as 23 kilometers, as well as the karst caves of Postojnska Yam, famous for bizarre stalactites and stalagmites.
Ski resorts
The borders of Slovenia in the west end in the Julian Alps, which gave shelter to lovers of active winter holidays. So, Kranjska Gora includes three large ski centers: actually Kranjska Gora, Planitsa and Podkoren. This fashionable resort, located near the borders of Austria and Italy, is ideal for beginners and children. That is why they often come here to vacation with their entire families. Here you can often meet foreign neighbors. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, here you can go mountain climbing, entertain yourself with a hike in the mountains or just admire the local natural attractions.
Fans of active winter vacations often come to Bovec - the highest mountain resort in the country, as well as to the very popular Maribor Pohorje, located 17 kilometers from the Austrian border. The territory of the last resort in the past for a long time belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, but was inhabited mainly by Slovenes. During World War II, this part of the country went to Germany and only then became free. Today, the Maribor Pohorje is the cultural and regional center of Lower Styria.
Medical-thermal centers of Slovenia
The Republic of Slovenia is famous for its healing resorts. In the resort clinics of this country, aesthetic medicine is actively developing, which attracts clients from all over the world here. The Rogaska Slatina resort, located in the east of the country, offers its guests drinking mineral water, balneotherapy and diet food. Every year, crowds of tourists from all over the country, closest neighbors from Austria and Italy, as well as many of our compatriots, gather at the most famous resort of the Slovenian Riviera Portoroz. They treat sea healing mud, thermal mineral waters, offer thalassotherapeutic treatment courses, various types of massage and face and body care programs. The center of Slovenia is famous for the resort of Lasko, located on the Savenye River. It is in this cozy town, surrounded on all sides by high mountains, that the country's most modern complex of thermal pools is located.
Bled
Lake Bled is fed by warm springs, and therefore it is covered with ice only in very severe frosts. Guests are attracted here not only by magnificent natural beauties, but also by the rare, unusual architecture of local cultural monuments, as well as unique thermal springs. In winter, the surroundings of the lake turn into a popular ski resort, suitable for intermediate athletes and beginners. In summer, locals and their guests enjoy mountain biking, go to the beach, ride horses, visit the golf center and tennis court. On the lake themselves, they like to go fishing or go on pleasure boats. The main attraction of this place is the Bled Castle of the 12th century, which now houses the national restaurant and historical museum.
Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is located in the very center of Triglav National Park, not far from the symbol of Slovenia - Mount Triglav. In summer, guests who come to the lake prefer to swim and sunbathe on local beaches, go hiking and biking. Lovers of a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature come here as whole families, since the local resort is an excellent alternative to the sea. Those who prefer to spend their holidays actively rent the necessary sports equipment. Fans of extreme sports are engaged in mountaineering, rafting, canyoning, paragliding, paragliding and many other sports. In winter, a large ski center operates in Bohin, which combines several ski areas. In addition, the best ski school in the country works here, there is a track for sledding and a place for skiing. Vacationers in their free time visit the indoor pool, go to discos, visit restaurants and cafes, enjoy the frozen waterfall and taste delicious local wines.
Conclusion
The small and cozy Republic of Slovenia is a unique example of perseverance, industriousness and determination. Even in difficult times, it preserved its history and culture, was able to boost the economy and turned into an attractive tourist center. The modern Republic of Slovenia is proud of its history and culture, revives traditions, actively develops science and sports directions.