Slovenia is a Central European country that was one of the first among the former Yugoslav republics to join the European Union. Its territory borders Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, and it has long been influenced by these neighboring countries.
Having overcome the hardships of being part of socialist Yugoslavia, Slovenia is now home to five World Heritage Sites. These sites offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and precious natural environment. Here is an introduction to all of them.
1. Škocjan Caves
The Škocjan Caves are the only World Heritage Site in Slovenia that is solely owned by the country. They are located about 80 km southwest of the capital, Ljubljana.
The caves feature enormous sinkholes (formed by the collapse of the surface due to underground voids), an underground river over 6 km long and more than 200 meters deep, and even waterfalls.
You can gather information about the Škocjan Caves at the visitor center and enjoy the dynamic and fantastical landscape created by nature.
Name: Škocjan Caves
Address: Matavun 12, 6215 Divača, Slovenia
2. Heritage of Mercury: Almadén and Idrija
The mercury mines, old town, and other industrial heritage sites in the Slovenian city of Idrija are jointly registered as the World Heritage Site “Heritage of Mercury: Almadén and Idrija” along with the city of Almadén in Spain.
The highlight of Idrija in Slovenia is the “Idrija Old Town.” Amid the traditional streets, you’ll find a castle and museums. These museums exhibit the mining tools and methods used in the past. You can also explore the fascinating timber transport system that used sluice gates built throughout the area to carry wood and equipment to the smelting facility. It offers a valuable glimpse into the working environment of that time.
Name: Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
Address: Idrija (Slovenia), Almadén (Spain)
3. Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps
The “Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps” is a World Heritage Site that spans six countries: Slovenia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. It includes the remains of stilt house settlements built around the Alpine region.
These pile dwellings resemble elevated storehouses constructed over water and used as residences. In Slovenia, two such sites have been registered as part of the World Heritage. They date back to between 5000 and 500 BCE. From the restored and reconstructed dwellings, you can get a sense of how ancient Slovenian people lived in those times.
Name: Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps
Address: Slovenia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland
4. Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
This World Natural Heritage site spans 18 European countries. It has been recognized for the post-Ice Age expansion, history, and evolution of the European beech, as well as the ecological transformations and reestablishment that accompanied it.
Initially, in 2007, the site covered the Eastern Carpathians of Slovakia and Ukraine. Germany added 15 sites in 2011, 9 more countries joined in 2017, and another 6 in 2021. Today, beech forests in 18 countries are registered.
The European beech forests are valuable for their age, variety, size, and broad distribution. They are home to large mammals like the Eurasian brown bear and European bison, over 100 bird species including golden eagles, and rich flora including lichens, mosses, around 500 species of fungi, and over 1,000 species of vascular plants.
Name: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
Official/Related Site URL: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1133/
5. The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana – Human Centred Urban Design
The Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, developed into a modern city through urban planning that connected the old town with surrounding areas.
The city's harmonious integration of historic districts with natural surroundings was envisioned by Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. He designed parks, squares, libraries, tree-lined boulevards, embankments, bridges, and promenades along the Ljubljanica River, shaping a capital that was both livable and aesthetically pleasing.
In 2021, Ljubljana's urban design was registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site under the title “The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana – Human Centred Urban Design.” While visiting, enjoy strolling through this beautifully planned city that reflects a human-centered approach to design.
Name: The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana – Human Centred Urban Design
Official/Related Site URL: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1643/
◎Summary of Slovenia’s World Heritage Sites
We have introduced the World Heritage Sites of Slovenia. While they may not be numerous, each one is incredibly intriguing. Especially recommended is the Škocjan Caves, which offer not only beautiful natural scenery but also the thrill of an adventurous experience. If you visit Slovenia, be sure to explore these remarkable sites.