Information about Slovenia

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Slovenia

Slovenia is a relatively small but incredibly interesting country situated right in the heart of Central Europe. For a large part of the twentieth century, this land was a member of the Yugoslav federation, but its history stretches much further back than that. Long before the modern era, the territory was under the firm control of the Habsburg dynasty, who were the powerful rulers of the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.

When the Yugoslav federation finally began to dissolve in 1991, Slovenia was quick to step forward and claim its own independence. This pivotal moment shifted the country's trajectory as it began to align its economic and political goals with Western Europe. By the time the twentieth century was drawing to a close, the nation experienced a significant economic boom which made it an attractive destination for people moving from other parts of the Balkan region.

A major milestone occurred in 2004 when Slovenia officially became a member of both the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The heart of the country is its capital city, Ljubljana, which serves as the main cultural and political hub. For maritime trade and travel, the most important port is located in the town of Koper, situated on the scenic Istria peninsula.

Geographically, Slovenia shares its borders with four different nations, creating a diverse cultural crossroads. To the west lies Italy, while Austria sits directly to the north. Croatia stretches along the southeastern border, and Hungary touches the country on the northeast side. In total, the land borders of the state extend for about 1086 kilometers, placing it right on the edge where the Balkans meet Central Europe.

The landscape in the northwest is dominated by the eastern stretches of the Alps, where you can find the majestic Mount Triglav. Standing at 2864 meters, it is the highest peak in the entire country and a symbol of national pride. Moving toward the northeast, the terrain flattens out into the Pannonian Basin, while the southern regions are defined by the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps.

Slovenia also has a small but precious opening to the sea on its western side. The coastline runs along the Gulf of Trieste in the Adriatic Sea for roughly 30 kilometers. Despite its modest size, the country manages to pack in an incredible variety of terrain into a compact area. You can travel from high mountain peaks to the warm Mediterranean coast in just a few hours of driving.

This small nation really punches above its weight when it comes to natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. Nearly forty percent of the entire territory is covered by massive, towering mountains that define the local way of life. Large rivers like the Sava, Soca, and Drava wind their way through the valleys, with the Drava eventually flowing into the famous Danube.

While these rivers are not really deep or calm enough for big commercial ships, they are incredibly valuable for other reasons. They have a massive potential for generating clean hydroelectric power, which is a big deal for the country’s energy needs. The water is often crystal clear and provides a stunning backdrop for the lush green valleys they pass through.

Regions and resorts Slovenia

Nature Slovenia

Nature in Slovenia is something truly special and is often described as a hidden gem for those who love the outdoors. The country is home to several large mountain lakes that look like they belong on a postcard, with Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj being the most famous examples. These spots are perfect for anyone looking to escape into a quiet, alpine environment surrounded by fresh air and clear water.

Beyond the surface, the ground itself holds some incredible wonders in the form of unique karst caves. The Postojna Cave and the Skocjan Caves are world-renowned for their intricate formations and massive underground chambers. These geological sites show just how much variety there is in the Slovenian landscape, from the high peaks to the deep subterranean passages.

The local environment is wonderfully diverse, with huge areas of land covered in thick, healthy forests. You can also find wide open steppe plains and high-altitude alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. Near the Adriatic coast, the vegetation shifts to a more Mediterranean style, while the mountains are dominated by sturdy coniferous trees.

Because so much of the land is covered in trees, Slovenia is often called a green country, and it actually ranks third in Europe for its wealth of forest resources. This greenery is a point of pride for the locals, who go to great lengths to protect their natural heritage. There are thousands of different plant species living here, with many of them being quite rare and strictly protected by law.

Even though the country is already very green, people here don't take it for granted and work hard to keep it that way. Every single year, local residents and authorities plant around a million new trees to help maintain the original, pristine state of the environment. This constant effort ensures that the forests remain healthy and continue to expand for future generations.

The variety of trees is quite impressive, ranging from oak and hornbeam to pine, spruce, and beech. It is amazing to think that such a small piece of land, representing only a tiny fraction of the Earth's surface, holds so much life. More than one percent of all the world's species and a significant portion of European land and freshwater creatures call Slovenia home.

The forests are also a paradise for anyone who enjoys foraging for wild, edible mushrooms, which grow in great abundance and variety. You might be surprised to learn that Slovenia has one of the largest populations of brown bears living alongside humans in Europe. Wild animals are quite common, and if you step into the woods, you might catch a glimpse of a wolf, a lynx, or even a wild cat.

The government takes the protection of these animals very seriously, including species like the mountain goat that lives high up in the rocky peaks. The rivers, lakes, and coastal waters are also full of life, serving as a home for many different types of fish. In the cleanest mountain streams, you can still find rare crayfish that are unfortunately endangered in many other parts of the world.

Birds also love this region, using the diverse landscapes as a safe place for nesting during the warmer months. Many migratory birds choose to stop here or even spend the whole winter in Slovenia because the environment is so welcoming. Whether you are looking at the ground, the water, or the sky, there is always some form of unique wildlife to see.

Climate Slovenia

The weather in Slovenia is quite varied because the country is split into three different climate zones. You have the temperate continental climate in the middle, a Mediterranean feel along the coast, and a crisp Alpine climate in the mountains. This means the winters are generally manageable, and the summers aren't the kind of scorching heat that makes you want to stay indoors all day.

In the winter months, the temperatures are usually quite mild, staying around two degrees below zero in the northwest and climbing to six degrees above on the coast. December can be a bit unpredictable, especially if you are heading to the ski resorts. Up in the mountains, it might range from freezing to ten degrees below, while the capital stays around four degrees above zero.

January is often the coldest time of year and can get quite foggy, with the central parts of the country hovering right around the freezing point. You won't see rain or snow every day, but the northern regions usually keep a white blanket of snow thanks to the colder air. By February, the seaside resorts are already feeling a bit warmer, with temperatures rarely dropping below six degrees.

Spring is a beautiful transition period when everything starts to bloom and the air begins to warm up. In March, the lowland areas start to see daytime temperatures around ten degrees, and it rarely rains more than a couple of days a month. Up in the ski areas, it gets up to about eight degrees during the day, which means the snow starts to disappear and the ski season winds down.

By April, the capital city of Ljubljana can feel quite pleasant, with temperatures often reaching nineteen degrees. This is also when you might start seeing more rain and the occasional spring thunderstorm. While the central part of the country might have some cloudy days, the sky over the Adriatic coast usually stays bright and clear.

Once the air temperature hits twenty degrees, the sea starts to warm up as well, reaching about fifteen degrees. May is a fantastic month in the capital, with clear skies and temperatures around twenty-one degrees. On the coast, it feels even more like summer, with the thermometer often showing between twenty-three and twenty-five degrees during the day.

Summer in Slovenia is warm but not overwhelming, with mountain temperatures staying in the mid-teens and the foothills reaching the low twenties. June is when the beach season really kicks off because the sea water gets up to twenty-two degrees. The air on the coast can get as hot as thirty degrees, while the capital stays a bit cooler at twenty-two.

July is usually the month with the most rainfall, but it’s still very warm, with average daytime temperatures of twenty-four degrees. This is the peak time for tourism, especially at the seaside resorts where the nightlife and beaches are in full swing. August sees a bit more rain, but the nights stay warm at around twenty-two degrees, and the days are perfect for being outside.

Autumn doesn't really rush into Slovenia, and you can usually keep enjoying the beach well into the month of September. The summer weather only starts to fade when the eastern winds begin to pick up. By October, the sea cools down to eighteen degrees, and the weather becomes much more windy and damp.

November is the time when the country starts to feel the approach of winter with more fog and frequent rain. The warm western winds are replaced by cold northern gusts that bring a real chill to the air. In the capital, you can expect daytime temperatures to stay between four and six degrees as the year begins to close out.

Transport in Slovenia

Slovenia's transport network might not be the most diverse in the world, but it is incredibly efficient and well-maintained. Because the country is quite small, getting from one side to the other doesn't take much time at all. Cars and buses are by far the most popular ways to get around, and the road system is top-notch.

If you are planning to travel to neighboring Austria or Italy, you’ll find over a hundred different border crossings available. The total length of the paved roads is around 14.5 thousand kilometers, which is quite a lot for such a compact nation. Taking the bus is actually the most affordable way to see the sights if you aren't in a hurry.

A typical bus ride will cost you about two Euros for every hour you spend on the road, which is a great deal. Just keep in mind that there is usually a small extra fee of fifty cents if you have a large suitcase to store in the luggage compartment. Buses are a reliable way to reach famous spots like Lake Bled, Bohinj, or the coastal towns of Istria.

If your trip happens to fall on a weekend, it is a very good idea to buy your tickets in advance. You can pick them up at the main bus stations, from the driver, or even at small newspaper and tobacco kiosks around town. For those staying longer, there are also multi-day passes available at red kiosks that can save you a bit of money.

Renting a car is another great option, and you can find rental offices at the airport or in major cities like Ljubljana and Maribor. Many travelers prefer this over taxis because cab fares can get quite expensive very quickly. Companies like Europcar operate here, and they usually offer unlimited mileage, which is perfect for exploring the countryside at your own pace.

The railway system is also a solid choice for travel, especially if you are moving between larger cities or heading to Croatia. The national rail company, Slovenske zeleznice, manages the entire network and keeps things running smoothly. One little tip for travelers is to check the station names carefully, as they are usually written in Slovenian even on English websites.

The fastest and most comfortable way to travel by rail is on the InterCity Slovenia express trains. these modern trains come with air conditioning and often have a small buffet car for snacks and drinks. These expresses run several times a day between the biggest cities, though the coastal route to Koper might only have one direct express daily.

A second-class ticket from the capital to Maribor on one of these fast trains will cost you around eleven or twelve Euros. If you want a bit more luxury, first class is usually around sixteen Euros. It is always smart to book your seat ahead of time, which you can easily do online or at the ticket counter at the station.

There are also several other types of trains depending on where you are going and how fast you want to get there. Regional trains stop at every single tiny station, while international trains are built for speed between different countries. There are even night trains with sleeping cars if you are heading to other parts of Europe and want to save on a hotel for the night.

Money and shopping in Slovenia

Since the beginning of 2007, Slovenia has been using the Euro as its official currency, just like many of its neighbors. If you are bringing US dollars, you won't have any trouble finding a place to swap them for local cash at most banks. Banks are usually open from eight in the morning until six in the evening, but they do close for a couple of hours in the middle of the day.

On Saturdays, they usually only work for a few hours in the morning, and Sunday is a day off for almost everyone. It’s also worth noting that some bank branches might stay closed on Mondays as well. If the banks are closed, you can always head to a post office, a hotel, or a travel agency to change your money.

Just be careful with these alternative exchange spots because they sometimes charge a commission fee of up to five percent. If you want to avoid these extra fees, the exchange office at the main train station in Ljubljana is usually a safe bet. Keep in mind that exchange rates can vary quite a bit depending on which city you are visiting.

Most of the places you'll visit, like restaurants, big supermarkets, and hotels, will happily accept credit cards or traveler's checks. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a bit of cash just in case, as some smaller shops might not take foreign cards. Overall, the country is very modern and easy to navigate when it comes to spending money.

Slovenia is frequently cited as one of the best places to live or visit because the atmosphere is so welcoming and friendly. One of the highlights of any trip here is visiting the local markets, which are packed with interesting handmade items and traditional goods. Shopping here is more than just a chore; it’s a fun way to experience the local culture and find something unique.

You can find all sorts of treasures in street stalls and small boutiques, from local fashion brands to rare antiques. There are also plenty of delicious treats to buy, like artisanal chocolates and various products made from high-quality local honey. Many tourists look for handmade souvenirs because they feel more personal and tell a story about the trip.

If you are in Ljubljana, you absolutely have to visit the Central Market, which is a lively hub of activity. Part of it is outdoors on large squares, while another part is housed in a beautiful covered building between two neighborhoods. You can walk along the river and browse through stalls selling fresh Slovenian food that you can often sample before buying.

Another great spot is a shop known as the Treasures of Slovenia, which is like a one-stop shop for the best local products. They have shelves full of the finest Slovenian beers, cookies, and chocolates that make for great gifts. It is the perfect place to go if you want to bring back a taste of the country for your friends and family.

Handmade textiles like quilted blankets, soft pillows, and intricate bed linens are very popular items for people to take home. These often feature beautiful traditional patterns that have been used in the region for generations. However, the most famous souvenirs from this area are definitely the items made from mountain crystal.

You can find stunning crystal glasses, vases, and bowls that are crafted with incredible skill and attention to detail. These pieces of art are famous for their high quality and relatively affordable prices, though they are very fragile. Besides crystal, you might also want to pick up some local salt, which is highly prized by chefs all over the world. Finally, don't forget the Lecten honey dough figures, which are a sweet and colorful tradition.

Main attractions Slovenia

Slovenia is one of those places that feels like it was pulled straight from a fairy tale. When you walk through its small towns, you see this beautiful mix of Baroque buildings and romantic backdrops that make you want to stop and take photos every few steps. The landscape is incredibly diverse, offering everything from snow-capped mountain peaks to sun-drenched beaches and waterfalls that tumble down rocky cliffs. It is the kind of country where you can see the Alps in the morning and dip your toes in the sea by the afternoon.

One of the most iconic spots you have probably seen in pictures is Lake Bled. It sits right in the northwestern part of the country, tucked away between high mountains that reflect in the clear water. The main draw here is the tiny island right in the middle, which holds the Church of the Assumption. There is a famous Wishing Bell there, and locals tell all sorts of stories about how it can make your dreams come true if you ring it. Most people get to the island on these traditional wooden boats called pletnas, which is a really peaceful way to soak in the scenery.

If you head underground, you find the Postojna Cave system, which is honestly like visiting another planet. This massive network of tunnels and halls was carved out by the Pivka River over millions of years. It stays at a cool ten degrees Celsius all year round, so you always need a jacket when you go inside. The limestone formations, like the stalactites and stalagmites, are breathtaking, but many people come specifically to see the human fish. It is a strange, translucent creature that lives in the cave waters and looks like nothing else on Earth.

Not too far away is Predjama Castle, which is probably the most daring piece of architecture in the whole region. It was built right into the mouth of a massive cave halfway up a vertical cliff that stands over a hundred meters high. It looks like it is defying gravity and the laws of physics. If it looks familiar, you might have seen it in the movie Armour of God, where it served as a backdrop for a dramatic monk gathering. Today, it is a huge national museum that brings in millions of visitors who want to see how people lived in such a wild fortress.

The Soca Valley is another gem that feels almost unreal because of the color of its water. The river is a bright, emerald green that is so vivid you might think someone dyed it. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful alpine rivers in all of Europe and is a playground for anyone who loves the outdoors. You can find people rafting through the rapids, paddling along in kayaks, or just sitting quietly on the banks hoping to catch a famous marble trout. If you are feeling brave, you can even take a paraglider up and see the whole emerald valley from the sky.

Just a short trip from Bled, you will find the Vintgar Gorge, which offers a totally different kind of natural beauty. There is a wooden walkway that hugs the canyon walls, allowing you to walk right over the rushing water and mossy rocks. As you stroll along, you see deep pools, swirling whirlpools, and ancient trees that lean over the path. The walk ends at a massive waterfall that really highlights the raw power of the nature found in this part of Slovenia.

Tourism in Slovenia

Slovenia has this incredible way of drawing people in through its history, its architecture, and its wildly varied landscapes. You get a bit of everything here, from the salty breeze of the Adriatic coast to the crisp air of the Julian Alps. The local people are known for being genuinely warm and welcoming, which makes staying in the old towns or fancy resorts feel much more personal. It is a small country, but it packs in so much culture that you never feel like you have seen it all.

The northeast part of the country is a real treat for anyone who loves good, hearty food. One of the most famous things you can eat there is a pork and turnip stew called bujta repa, which is deeply traditional and very filling. If you have a sweet tooth, you absolutely have to try the prekmurska gibanica, which is a layered pastry that locals take very pride in. The town of Moravske Toplice has become a huge hub for travelers from all over Europe who come for the relaxing atmosphere and the local flavors.

In the heart of the country lies Ljubljana, the capital, which is a city that feels both grand and cozy at the same time. The streets are filled with Baroque buildings and masterpieces of modernism, many of which were designed by the legendary architect Jože Plečnik. He basically shaped the soul of the city, and walking across his bridges or through his markets is like walking through an open-air museum. The city has a very lively energy, with plenty of spots to sit and watch the world go by.

The natural landmarks outside the city are just as famous, especially the Julian Alps and the stunning Soca Valley. Mount Triglav stands as a symbol of the nation, and many locals feel that every Slovenian should climb it at least once. Then you have the Karst Plateau, which is home to the world-famous Postojna Cave. This cave system alone has seen tens of millions of visitors over the years, making it one of the most popular underground sites in the entire world.

A lot of people visit Slovenia just for the views, but there is a new kind of travel that is becoming really popular called api-tourism. This is all about the ancient tradition of beekeeping, which has deep roots in Slovenian culture. It is not just about eating honey, though that is a big part of it; it is about learning how bees help the environment and even using bee products for health and wellness. It is a very sustainable way to travel that supports local farmers and gives tourists a unique look at rural life.

This focus on the environment and traditional crafts makes the country feel very authentic and untouched by mass commercialism. Whether you are exploring a cave, hiking up a mountain, or visiting a local beehive, there is a sense of respect for the land. It is this balance between modern comfort and deep-seated traditions that keeps travelers coming back year after year. Slovenia might be small on the map, but the experiences it offers are massive in scale and heart.

Accommodation in Slovenia

When it comes to Slovenian food, the first word that comes to mind is hearty. The cuisine here is a fascinating mix of influences from the Balkans, the Alps, and the Mediterranean coast. All these different cultures have left their mark, resulting in a food scene that is incredibly diverse but still has its own unique character. You can find elements of Italian pasta, Austrian pastries, and Balkan grilled meats all on the same menu.

It is actually pretty much impossible to count every single traditional dish because there are more than a thousand of them across the different regions. Because the landscape changes so much from the mountains to the sea, the ingredients people use are very different depending on where you are. Every little town seems to have its own special recipe that they claim is the best in the country. This regional pride makes a food tour through Slovenia a really fun adventure for your taste buds.

Down by the coast in the Primorska region, the food is much lighter and features a lot of fresh seafood and olive oil. People there love their greens and fresh vegetables, and you can really feel the influence of their Italian neighbors. You might see a lot of polenta, which is a thick corn porridge that goes perfectly with a variety of stews or grilled fish. Soups are also a big deal in this area, especially the hearty minestrone, which is packed with beans, potatoes, and whatever vegetables are in season.

If you travel further inland, you will see a lot of people eating burek, which is a flaky pastry filled with either meat or cheese. Dumplings are another staple of the Slovenian diet, and they come in so many different varieties that it is hard to keep track. The most popular ones are usually filled with cottage cheese or peas, and they can be served as a side dish or even a main course. They have a soft, comforting texture that makes them a favorite during the colder months.

Slovenian desserts are in a league of their own, especially the famous potica, which is a rolled cake with various fillings like walnuts or tarragon. You also have the gibanica, a rich, layered pastry filled with poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, and cream that is often served warm. Most traditional meals start with a hot bowl of soup and move on to a thick goulash or some kind of roasted meat. If you are staying in a local hotel, you will likely get to try these classic dishes as part of your stay.

To wash it all down, Slovenia offers some truly excellent wines that range from everyday table varieties to high-end vintage bottles. The Merlot and White Pinot from this region are particularly well-regarded by wine enthusiasts around the world. If you want something a bit stronger, you should look for the unique pear brandy made by Carthusian monks. They actually grow a pear inside the glass bottle while it is still on the tree and then fill it up with spirits, creating a drink that is as much a piece of art as it is a beverage.

Kitchen and dishes Slovenia

Most travelers who visit Slovenia tend to stay in hotels rather than renting private apartments because the prices for short-term rentals can be surprisingly high. The hotels here do a great job of offering more than just a bed to sleep in. You will find that many of them have their own spas, thermal pools, and organized tours that take you directly to the most popular sights. This makes the whole travel experience much smoother, especially if you do not want to worry about logistics.

If you are staying near the coast, the hotels often provide easy access to water sports like surfing or organized fishing trips. Up in the mountains, the lodging options are usually tucked into beautiful spots with incredible views of the peaks right from your balcony. It is quite common for these mountain retreats to feel more like cozy lodges, even if they have all the modern amenities of a high-end hotel. The focus is always on connecting the guest with the surrounding natural beauty.

There are a few well-known hotel chains that operate throughout the country and have built up a solid reputation over the years. Some focus heavily on wellness and health, offering saunas and specialized treatments, while others are known for combining luxury accommodation with top-tier restaurants. These places often have entertainment programs for guests and offer practical services like ski rentals during the winter months. Staying at one of these established spots usually guarantees a certain level of comfort and professional service.

The hotel industry in Slovenia is actually very well-developed and meets high international standards. Most visitors find the rooms to be very comfortable, and many packages include half-board, which covers breakfast and dinner. This can be a great way to save money while also getting to try local food prepared by professional chefs. Another tip for travelers is to look for discounts that many hotels offer if you decide to stay for more than three nights.

In terms of ratings, the majority of hotels in the country fall into the three or four-star categories. You will not find as many two-star budget motels or ultra-luxury five-star palaces, but the mid-range options are very high quality. Many of the four-star hotels come with their own swimming pools and dedicated wellness centers where you can get massages or beauty treatments. It is a very balanced market that caters well to families and couples looking for a relaxing getaway.

If you are on a tight budget, Ljubljana has some decent hostels where a bed in a shared room might cost around twenty euros. For a bit more privacy, a double room in a hostel or a basic hotel can range from thirty to forty euros per night. If you want more luxury in the capital, you could easily pay eighty euros or more for a four-star experience. The prices fluctuate depending on the season, with summer being the most expensive time to visit.

Down in Portorož, which is a popular seaside town, you can find even more variety in pricing. Camping is the cheapest way to go there, with a two-person tent spot costing around forty euros. If you prefer a solid roof over your head, a simple hotel room might be sixty euros, while the high-end five-star resorts can go up to nearly two hundred euros a night. Near Lake Bled, many people opt for chalets, which offer a lot of space and privacy for a higher price point.

Culture and traditions Slovenia

The culture of Slovenia is a fascinating mix of different influences, mainly because of its location right at the crossroads of Europe. You can see bits and pieces of Italian, Croatian, German, and Austrian traditions woven into the daily life of the people. This blend makes the country feel very cosmopolitan while still holding onto its own unique identity. It is a place where Central European order meets Mediterranean warmth.

While Slovenian is the main language, it is not the only one you will hear spoken officially. In certain regions near the borders, Italian and Hungarian also have official status, reflecting the diverse history of the land. Most locals are actually quite impressive linguists and can easily switch between several languages. It is very common to meet people who speak fluent English and German, especially in the areas that see a lot of tourists.

Religion plays a visible role in the landscape, with Catholicism being the most prominent faith. You can see a church or a small chapel in almost every village, and the countryside is dotted with historic monasteries. However, even though the architecture is everywhere, the people themselves take a fairly relaxed approach to their faith. Besides Catholics, you will also find small communities of Orthodox Christians, Muslims, and Protestants, while many people identify as secular or atheist.

The national flag is a simple but meaningful tricolor of white, blue, and red. In the top corner, you will find the coat of arms, which features the three peaks of Mount Triglav and two wavy lines representing the Adriatic Sea. These symbols are very important to the people because they represent the two most defining features of their geography. It is a source of national pride that shows up on everything from government buildings to sports jerseys.

If you ever see a traditional festival, you will get a glimpse of the beautiful folk costumes that vary from one region to another. Women usually wear a combination of a white shirt, a long skirt, an apron, and a headscarf, often paired with white socks. Men’s outfits typically include a white shirt, a vest, and breeches made of leather or heavy fabric, along with tall boots. The style of the hats and the embroidery on the vests change depending on which part of the country the wearer is from.

One of the most delicate and beautiful traditions in the country is the making of Idrija lace. This craft has been around since the 17th century and has become a huge part of the local identity in the town of Idrija. The skill of bobbin lacemaking has been passed down through families for hundreds of years. To make sure the tradition never dies out, a special lace-making school was opened back in the late 1800s and it still teaches students today.

Even now, the school plays a vital role in keeping this intricate art form alive for future generations. While you can find small decorative pieces of lace, the artisans also make more modern items like gloves, scarves, and even jewelry. It is a very time-consuming and difficult craft, but the end result is incredibly detailed and unique. Seeing someone work on these pieces by hand gives you a real appreciation for the patience and history behind Slovenian culture.