Cultural experiences of historic towns

History and culture go well together. Add in a touch of modern urban atmosphere and it creates a wonderful cultural cocktail, which you can enjoy by attending the events as part of FEST MEST, Slovenia's longest festival. In addition to the cultural rainbow of events linking the towns and cities together, there are also interesting experiences and food-centred treats.

FEST MEST – the longest festival in Slovenia

Every town has its own soul and culture, telling the story of its past and bringing its streets and squares to life. Pieces of the cultural life of 21 historic towns, highlighting their unique character, are brought together in the rich and varied programme of the Fest Mest festival. It is enriched by selected events, performances, exhibitions, concerts and open-air productions from spring to late summer. These take place in old town centres, within monastery walls, in castle courtyards, town squares, and amidst the ambience of other medieval buildings. Just think of the acoustics that surround you at a concert in a church or in the halls of a castle! All of this adds a special charm to the events, turning them into a unique experience of history, culture, and art.

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20 reasons for a world-class experience in historic towns

Discover FEST MEST events that connect historic towns with a thread of culture and art. Treat yourself to a concert journey from the classics to Kreslin. Experience contemporary performances on unique stages from the past. Visit contemporary art exhibitions which, with their reflexivity and provocativeness, place historic towns at the heart of European creativity. 



Historic venues that make their mark on events 

Medieval castles, churches, monasteries and old town centres take on a whole new dimension with the events of the FEST MEST festival. And vice versa. The majestic, mysterious ambiences further awaken the imagination and connect the present with the spirit of days gone by. 

Best tales and experiences of castles in historical towns

The tales of castles in historical Slovenian towns that inspire and welcome you to explore them.

Best tales and experiences of castles in historical towns

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Experience Slovenia’s sacral heritage

Discover some gems of Slovenia’s sacral heritage in the most exciting way.

Experience Slovenia’s sacral heritage

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Charming old town centres of historic towns

Discover the old town centres of historic towns, living museums of time.

Charming old town centres of historic towns

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Major festivals and events in historic towns

You can also feel the cultural pulse of historic towns at many festivals. Take a look at some of the most recognisable and popular festivals and events that you should definitely add to your to-do list.

Tips for exploring historic towns

Follow your curiosity and explore Slovenian historic towns. Discover tales from the past and tie in the modern culinary, cultural, family and fun experiences.

Tales of medieval castles

Slovenian historic towns are a treasure trove of tales from medieval and modern times alike. They are hidden behind the walls of mighty castles and manors, carved into town fortifications and walls. If you listen carefully, your mind can wander off to the times of noblemen and serfs, and experience life in towns and castles.

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Tales of medieval castles

Tales of medieval castles

Slovenian historic towns are a treasure trove of tales from medieval and modern times alike. They are hidden behind the walls of mighty castles and manors, carved into town fortifications and walls. If you listen carefully, your mind can wander off to the times of noblemen and serfs, and experience life in towns and castles.

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A family stroll through history

A family stroll through history

Fill your family photo album with unforgettable memories and experiences from Slovenian historic towns. Captivating adventures are waiting for you, where the past and the present meet, where myths and legends stir your imagination and where fairy tales can, at least in part, come true.

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Wine Towns

Wine Towns

Follow the rich wine tradition of historic towns in the wine-producing regions. Discover special local wines and compelling wine stories.

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Viewpoints of historical towns

Viewpoints of historical towns

Discover the most beautiful spots of the towns and cities, offering the best panoramic views of the streets and squares and their surroundings. The kind of spots that you won't necessarily need to change clothes or dress up for, as they are accessible directly from the city centres. Whether it's church spires, defence towers or hills in the middle of towns, climb above the skyline and enjoy the view.

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Forma viva - Open-air art

Forma viva - Open-air art

Enter into art galleries without walls, with no doors or windows, and with only the heavens for a roof. Take a look at the forma viva sculptures, living art in public spaces, which have inspired artists all over the world. Stroll among paintings and photos exhibited in squares, streets, parks and avenues.

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Cultural experiences all around you

Find your favourite corner of Slovenia for culture, and treat yourself. With a wide array of musical, performing and other festivals, you will be able to experience the lively cultural atmosphere, while you will learn about the life and character of Slovenians through museum and art collections.

Music festivals

You can enjoy the work of some of the most important creators and performers from all over the world if you visit festivals in Slovenia.

Music festivals

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Performance and visual arts

Visit festivals where you can enjoy the best local and world productions in the field of theatre, film, dance, and multimedia creativity.

Performance and visual arts

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Galleries and museums

Museums and galleries in Slovenia – a treasure trove of art from prehistoric times until today.

Galleries and museums

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Ethnological festivals

Learn about life as it once was and as it is now at the most well-known ethnological festivals.

Ethnological festivals

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Castles

Slovenia is full of castles, manors, fortresses, and fortification systems.

Castles

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Arts and Culture

Slovenia boasts a rich cultural tradition.

Arts and Culture

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Stories from Slovenia

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