In many Slovenian cities and towns, cultural life is very rich. If you are looking for an authentic pulse of contemporary urban culture, head to the cultural quarters, which each tell their own stories from the world of art and culture in their respective areas. It is not just about individual spaces of cultural activity, but about a specific area, where the distinctive identity of the quarter can be felt at every turn. At the same time, they are a bridge between visitors eager for cultural exploration and the local population. Although the capital Ljubljana stands out in terms of the number of such quarters, you will also find contemporary cultural centres in other cities. Take a peek behind the scenes of Slovenian urban culture and visit one of these quarters.
Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital, is steadily developing a variety of cultural quarters with something for everyone. Follow their stories, which will take you into the colourful world of contemporary culture and art.
In addition to the Pekarna cultural centre, you can also experience the modern cultural pulse of Maribor by visiting two cultural quarters in the city. Each has its own historical background and character, and a wide range of events, galleries and architectural features await you in both.
As part of the European Capital of Culture 2025, a special techno-cultural urban quarter is being created between Nova Gorica and Gorizia. The Nova Gorica ECoC District is a symbol of the transformation and boundless cooperation between Nova Gorica and Gorizia. Under the motto "GO! Borderless", it blurs the boundaries between cultures and opens the door to innovation and creativity. It is a vibrant arena for art, dialogue and integration, where culture becomes a bridge between people and a source of inspiration for the future.
The Kranj historic centre is renowned for its rich cultural offer. The heart of the emerging cultural quarter is the Layer House, the former home of the painter Leopold Layer, which is now an artists' space and a meeting point for cultural and social events. The Škrlovec Tower and the Khislstein Castle Museum House – the castle courtyard is also one of Slovenia's most beautiful venues for cultural and musical events – complement the artistic and cultural events in the surrounding area. Round off your cultural stroll in this part of Kranj with a visit to the Mergentaler street gallery and the Prešeren Award Winners' Gallery, and also the performances at the renowned Prešeren Theatre in the southern part of the historic centre are not to be missed.
The princely town is famous for its exciting history, which could be the inspiration for an epic film of Hollywood proportions. The Old Castle stands proudly above the city, and below the surface we can wander among the remains of Celeia... and in between, among the city's picturesque streets, we find the vibrant creative pulse of modernity. There, in their studios of the U4 Art Quarter, Celje artists – painters, photographers and designers – make their creations. From here, it is just a step to other Celje art centres. Do you know the Račka Gallery? It is the first erotic art gallery in Slovenia. The Likovni salon Gallery and the Gallery of Contemporary Art are also a short walk away.
Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest city, is a vibrant hub of art and culture year-round. The entire Old Town comes alive with the rhythm of festivals, starting with the traditional Kurentovanje carnival and continuing with Art Stays, Cinema without Ceiling, Roman Games, Arsana, celebration of Saint Martin's Day, and more throughout the year. The renovated Old Glassworks (Stara steklarska) now serves as a vibrant venue for creativity, while Vrazov trg, home to the popular Days of Poetry and Wine, has also been given a refreshing facelift.
On a cultural journey through Slovenia, you will find that tradition and modern creativity blend perfectly, creating a new story of Slovenian culture that will impress you.
Discover the contemporary creative spirit of Slovenia. Visit the creative centres you will find in Ljubljana and other Slovenian cities. They will delight you with attractive exhibitions, studios and workshops where you can try your hand at artistic creation. Check out the list of events and performances that reveal other dimensions of contemporary art.
MoreDiscover the contemporary creative spirit of Slovenia. Visit the creative centres you will find in Ljubljana and other Slovenian cities. They will delight you with attractive exhibitions, studios and workshops where you can try your hand at artistic creation. Check out the list of events and performances that reveal other dimensions of contemporary art.
MoreEvery story has a beginning and an end. And every ending can mean a new beginning. This could be said of former industrial buildings and factories that have been given a new lease of life. Many a building or mine has been converted into a museum of sorts, and some facilities have undergone a complete makeover to acquire completely new content.
MoreGraffiti and murals are not just scribble on the walls of buildings. Plenty of graffiti amazes with its incredible artistic value, enlivening urban buildings that would otherwise remain inconspicuous. This is an original expression of street art that uses the city as its canvas and is accessible to everyone.
MoreCould you fix an umbrella? Or make your favourite mug? How skilled are you at weaving threads? Test your craft skills at the creative workshops. You will surely be proud of your masterpieces, even if they might not be perfect. And they can be the most beautiful gift, because you put your heart and soul into them too.
MoreEnter 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.
MoreCulture has many faces in Slovenia. You can experience it in the open air, at various festivals or in different cultural institutions. You will experience it through traditional skills. Through fascinating experiences. Let it take root in your heart.
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