If you want to spend a day close to Ljubljana, explore the nature and Slovene culture, Idrija is a perfect destination for you.
Only one hour drive from Ljubljana, you will find a second biggest mercury mine in the world. Active for over 500 years, and today a museum.
Guided tour takes you through some of the shafts, that show the work and life of the miners through the centuries. A film about the history if the region and the mine itself is shown to the visitors before they enter the mine. 9 € per person, or 8 € for groups and 4 € for children.
The mercury mine heritage in Idrija became a UNESCO world heritage protected site in 2012.
Other visits in the area:
– Gwerkenegg castle in the centre of Idrija from 16th century where used to be housed the administration of the mine for centuries, today a regional museum
– Franja Partisan Hospital near Cerkno, a hospital complex of 14 wooden buildings set up in 1943 in the narrow barely accessible Pasice Gorge. After the floods in 2007, a complete renovation was finished in 2010.
– Idrija Lace festival from 14th until 16th June 2013 to learn how to make original Idrija lace, see the exhibitions, join the competition in lacemaking, listen to some lectures and taste some local food.
And do not forget to taste the “zlikrofi”, a famous regional dish, made of pastry with a potatoe filling and a characteristic shape.
Find more photos on my Google + profile or visit www.slovenia-activity-holidays.com to plan your holidays in Slovenia.