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Discovering Slovenj Gradec: A City of Peace, Art and Sporting Excellence

Discovering Slovenj Gradec: A City of Peace, Art and Sporting Excellence

With its harmonious blend of history, culture, and sport, Slovenj Gradec — a home town of world renowned climber Janja Garnbret — invites you to explore its charming streets and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or a sports enthusiast, this remarkable historical town offers something for everyone.

A City of Peace

Slovenj Gradec proudly bears the title of City of Peace, bestowed by the United Nations in 1989. This year, in late October, the city will host the Assembly of Cities of Peace, bringing together representatives from various cities worldwide. The event coincides with the celebration of United Nations Day on October 24. Each September, the city holds the Peace Festival, and in October, the Peace Run takes place, highlighting its dedication to promoting peace and international cooperation.

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Visitors are invited to explore the City Walls of Slovenj Gradec, where they can get an insight into the town's rich historical and cultural legacy. This scenic walk provides a unique perspective on the city’s storied past.

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A Haven for Artists

Throughout the history, Slovenj Gradec has been a popular place for many renowned artists, musicians, and sculptors. The city is particularly associated with the celebrated composer Hugo Wolf, whose birthplace is now home to the Hugo Wolf Museum. Additionally, the Štirje Kovači Ensemble, listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest-running ensemble in the world, showcases the region's musical heritage and the Levovnik Shoe Museum, which showcases the heritage of the shoemaking craft in the city.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Koroška Gallery of Fine Arts, which features the works of notable Slovenian artists such as Jože Tisnikar, Bogdan Borčić and Karel Pečko, alongside other international talents. This gallery is an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the creative spirit of Slovenj Gradec.

Discover museums and art galleries in Slovenj Gradec

Architectural Treasures

As you wander through the charming streets of Slovenj Gradec, be sure to visit the city's two main churches: St. Elizabeth and the Church of Holy Spirit. A must-see is also the Church of St. George, not only a beautiful example of sacral architecture but also a unique archaeological site that represents the heritage of the first Slavic settlements in the area.

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Cultural Festivals and Sporting Achievements

Slovenj Gradec is known for its lively cultural calendar, having been part of the 2012 European Capital of Culture project in Maribor. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Medieval Prelude in June, the Shots Film Festival and various craft fairs and eco-festivals.

 

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The city’s favourable climate has long been ideal for athletes, and today it continues to produce top sports talents. Notable among them is Janja Garnbret, a multiple Olympic and world champion in sport climbing, who has put Slovenj Gradec on the global sports map.

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A Green Destination

Recognized as a Green Destination, Slovenj Gradec has received accolades for its commitment to sustainability. This focus on green tourism enhances its appeal to visitors seeking authentic and sustainable experiences.

 

This article is part of an exciting partnership with with the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia, of which Slovenj Gradec is also a member. The partnership aims to bring you captivating stories from the historical towns nestled across Slovenia. As a regular feature of News from Slovenia, delivered to our valued subscribers, readers can expect to discover exciting stories from these timeless cities in the coming months. The contents and photos for this article were provided by the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia and Slovenj Gradec Tourism Board. 

 

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