Numerous archaeological findings testify to intriguing developments in the Slovenian territory over past millennia and the important geostrategic position of the area. This territory was settled as early as prehistoric times. It was a crossroads of Roman trading routes where Roman camps were set up. The remnants of the past also reveal interesting communities and their settlements, such as those of the pile-dwellers. Our archaeological collection includes certain finds that are exceptional on a global scale. Awaken your spirit of exploration and venture in the footsteps of the past.
The rich collection of archaeological finds in Slovenia includes three artefacts that particularly stand out and are considered the oldest of their kind in the world. They teach us about the ingenuity, creativity and art of the ancient settlers.
The greatest treasure of the Divje babe palaeolithic archaeological site above the Idrijca River is thought to be the oldest musical instrument in the world, estimated at approximately 60,000 years old. Did you know that any melody, even the most demanding ones, can be played on this instrument made from the bone of a cave bear? Listen to the sound of the replica of this ancient instrument played by the Slovenian multi-instrumentalist Boštjan Gombač.
The Potočka Zijalka cave beneath Mt. Olševa in the Upper Savinja Valley is a repository of significant archaeological finds that shed light on the life of Ice Age man. Among the remarkable artefacts unearthed in this 40,000-year-old cave dwelling is a bone needle, considered to be the oldest sewing tools in Europe and one of the oldest in the whole world.
Among the remains of the pile-dwelling settlements in the Ljubljana Marshes protected by UNESCO, another archaeological treasure was discovered unexpectedly, a 5,200-year-old wooden wheel with an axle, the oldest wooden wheel ever discovered in the world. It is kept in the City Museum of Ljubljana.
Every archaeological artefact unfolds a new story from the past. And if it is brought to life with experiences and the help of modern technology, its story touches us even more. Discover some of the most interesting experiences of archaeological heritage.
Ptuj is the oldest Slovenian town. Its “foundations” were laid by the Romans when they set up their military camp next to the Drava River almost two thousand years ago. Their traces can be found in Ptuj or Roman Petoviona at almost every step. The Poetovio Archaeological Park is particularly interesting for ancient architectural legacy enthusiasts, as it showcases the heritage of the largest Roman settlement on Slovenian territory. Roman Petoviona is considered one of the largest centres of Mithraism in Europe. As many as five extraordinary shrines to the god Mithras were discovered in Ptuj, of which Mithraeum I and Mithraeum III are the best preserved. How to learn about and experience the time of the ancient Romans in the most ingenious way in Ptuj.
In Antiquity, Celje was an important junction of trade and other routes. The remnants of Roman Celeia can be found today in the cellar of the Princely Palace. Descend to the ancient walls, admire Roman frescoes and ornate marble statues preserved in situ and walk along the impressive Roman road. Former Celeia and modern Celje are connected by a guided experience, Wonders of Ancient Rome in Celje. View the exhibition in the Celje Regional Museum and learn about history from the Romans until today on a walk through town with a guide. You can end your experience with a cup of coffee and a dessert in a famous Celje coffee shop.
The remains of a Roman settlement can also be found in the capital, Ljubljana. The former Roman colony had an important role in the defence system of the Roman Empire due to its strategic location. The best insight into the life of former Emona citizens can be obtained in the Emona House Archaeological Park in the Jakopič Garden, where the remnants of a terraced Roman house can be found. It’s possible to walk to the remains of the Roman town walls in Mirje. Visit the City Museum of Ljubljana and ask about guided experiences involving Roman Emona.
In the past, the Ljubljana Marshes were the home of pile-dwellers, named after their settlements built on wooden piles. So far, the remains of some 40 pile-dwellings have been discovered in this area. Due to these precious findings, the area of the Ljubljana Marshes and the heritage of the pile-dwellers were entered into UNESCO’s World Heritage List. To get an exclusive insight into the life of pile-dwellers, visit Morostig, the house and reconstructed pile-dwellings in Ig.
Photos: Saša Švigelj (Media partner agencija)
The San Simon Archaeological Park next to the coastal town of Izola harbours the remnants of Roman settlements dating from the second century BC. Here, it’s possible to see the remains of a seaside villa in what was the largest port in Northern Istria at the time. You’ll be impressed by the largest area of Roman floor mosaics found in Slovenia. Roman remains can also be found under the sea. This Roman adventure can be topped off with an authentic Roman feast.
Novo Mesto is the world’s largest site of situlae, which are bronze vessels used for storing beverages. Sixteen situlae were found in two burial mounds and more than half of them were decorated with mythological and heroic scenes. Situlae are considered exceptional artistic artefacts from the Iron Age and feature a remarkable presentation of life at that time, reflecting the Hallstatt culture. They are so precious to Novo Mesto that they even have their own holiday.
Situla dating from the 5th century BC found in Vače and which can be viewed today at the National Museum of Slovenia is one of the most beautiful examples of situla art. In addition to high-quality craftsmanship, its uniqueness is also seen in its detailed ornamentation. In three bands or friezes depicting human and animal motifs, it’s possible to discern an idealised tale of crucial actions and events from the life of warrior who was likely a ruler.
Photo: Vače situla, National Museum of Slovenia (photo: Tomaž Lauko)
The Romans lived and left their mark on the Istrian peninsula. Learn about their legacy in the Koper Regional Museum, where you can view the collection of ancient amphoras and urns, indispensable objects in the development of the Roman economy. Through these two types of vessels symbolising the worlds of the living and the dead, the half-millennium story of Koper in the Roman period is intertwined. The youngest visitors can test their knowledge in a quiz after learning about what the Romans ate, how they dressed, what they used for lighting and how they spent their leisure time.
Rifnik is not only a popular hiking destination above the town of Šentjur, but is also the site of the largest Late Antiquity settlement in Slovenia. Today, the remains are part of specially designed archaeological park. The finds from Rifnik can be seen in the Šentjur museum collection called Rifnik and Its Treasures. Here’s a tip for some family fun: venture on an exploration adventure at the archaeological park and find a hidden treasure.
Villa Rustica is a typical Roman estate with a farmhouse and outbuildings. One of the most beautiful remains of a country villa can be found in Mošnje near Radovljica. The site is a true treasure trove of artefacts from the period between the 1st and 4th centuries. One of the most interesting objects is a sundial made from local tuff. The archaeological site with the remains of outbuildings and living quarters can be seen on the Mošnje Archaeological Trail.
In addition to the archaeological sites and artefacts mentioned above, which are accompanied by interesting experiences, you can find a number of other valuable archaeological treasures in Slovenian historical towns, each telling stories of the past.
Although hidden on a steep rockface on a southern slope of Mt Stol that is difficult to access, the ancient village of Ajdna is one of the most renowned Late Antiquity archaeological sites in Slovenia. The inhabitants of this area sought refuge there from the invasions of peoples from the north in the 5th and 6th centuries. It’s quite a challenge to get to the village, but once you reach the top of the rock needle, you are rewarded with a marvellous view of the Julian Alps and Lake Bled. The popular imagination was stirred by the grave of a young woman found at the archaeological site, regarding whom it was speculated whether she was the mythological Ajdovska deklica or the Pagan Girl. From the archaeological aspect, the bronze brooch in the form of a bird is much more interesting. It was found among other artefacts at the site and can now be admired as a hologram in the birth house of the linguist Matija Čop in Žirovnica.
The historical image of Slovenia is very diverse and interesting, as testified by the country’s artefacts and buildings, as well as by its customs and traditions. It’s time for you to travel with us into the past and learn about the valuables of our ancestors in a modern way.
Museum pieces in historical towns worth seeing.
Slovenia is full of castles, manors, fortresses, and fortification systems.
Discover some gems of Slovenia’s sacral heritage in the most exciting way.
Experiences that will make your stay in Slovenian towns worthwhile.
Learn about the people of Slovenia and their customs and traditions.
Experience the handicraft and craft tradition of Slovenian towns and places.
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