12 ISSN 1854-0805 December 2013

The latest from Slovenia

ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA INTERVIEW: Miroslav Mozetič, MSc IN FOCUS INTERVIEW: Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar HERITAGE: Slovenian Potica Polona Anja Valerija Tanja Irena Vesna

Let this New Year be the one, where all your dreams come true, so with a joyful heart, put a start to this year anew. Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year 2014. Editorial Board contents editorial

ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA INTERVIEW 7 Miroslav Mozetič, MSc Bruno ToičPhoto: In these times of financial and social crisis, the Consti- tutional Court faces new chalenges A Photo: Tamino Petelinšek/ST Tamino Photo:

IN FOCUS INTERVIEW 14 Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar Tanja Glogovčan, editor Research and communicating our knowledge of the wealth of ethnological heritage are of key importance A few of this year’s events to inspire you for the year to come

Our December issue being focused on Slovenian ethnological

Photo: Personal archives Personal Photo: characteristics, we are delighted to present below the work and success of the Slovene Ethnographic Museum, viewed through the experience of its Director, Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar, and its permanent exhibition entitled “The Relationship between Nature and Culture”. The forthcoming year will mark the 600th anniversary of the beginning of the enthronement rituals of the Carinthian dukes, which has since been one of the most important distinctions of Slovenia in the European area and is also one of the topics dealt with in this issue. HERITAGE 28 Dr Janez Bogataj There is no holiday in Slovenia without the traditional Slovenian Slovenian potica festive cake potica. Two years following the publication of the successful monograph Mojstrovine s kranjsko klobaso (Mastering the Art of Preparing Carniolan Sausage-Based Dishes), the Rokus Klett publishing company is back with a new culinary book on a traditional Slovenian dish.

The socio-political section of this issue includes a presentation of the new President of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia, Miroslav Mozetič. The interview highlights the role of the Constitutional Photo: Tomo Jeseničnik/Rokus Klett Tomo Photo: Court at a time of economic and financial crisis. Other features of this issue include a cartoon strip with illustrations by Damijan Stepančič, taken from his picture book Zdravljica.

The New Year will also bring about changes to the magazine, though these will be introduced gradually. The Editorial Board would thus like to Sinfo – Slovenian information extend its sincere thanks to all who send in their ideas and suggestions. Executive Editor and Editior – in - Chief: Tanja Glogovčan, [email protected] In the upcoming year, our focus will be more on the presentation of all Editorial Board: Vesna Žarkovič, Irena Kogoj, Valerija Obu, Anja Polajnar, Slovenian regions; moreover, changes will be made to the visual form of Polona Prešeren, MSc Photo Editor: Bojan Pernek the magazine and some of its sections. The magazine will soon also be Production: Irena Kogoj available in electronic format in e-bookstores. In addition, preparations Translation: Secretariat-General of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia, Translation and Interpretation Division; PSD Translation are underway for a special and more topical e-Sinfo edition featuring Language editing: Amidas Printed by: Littera picta d.o.o., Slovenia, Number of copies: 3650 short video clips. We are thus opening a new chapter for you to savour Photo on the front page: Archives of Mostphotos in the forthcoming year, page by page.

Government Communication Office:www.slovenia.si Government Communication Office:www.ukom.gov.si Reading helps us to discover ourselves, the world around us and our Government of the Republic of Slovenia: www.vlada.si SPIRIT: www.slovenia.info life companions. This is yet another reason why it is such a privilege to Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry: www.gzs.si be an author of the stories herein. On my own behalf and on behalf of Slovenian Chamber of Craft: www.ozs.si Japti: www.japti.si the Editorial Board, I extend to you all best wishes for the year ahead. Ljubljana Stock Exchange: www.ljse.si Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia:www.stat.si Please let yourselves be inspired by positive stories, which I am sure State Portal of the Republic of Slovenia: http://e-uprava.gov.si will help make your New Year’s resolutions and wishes come true.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 3 UNDERLINED Boštjan Lajovic, Director of the Government Communication Office Photo: G CO

And yet it moves

Despite the high numbers, the results of the stress tests of Slovenian prove a welcome wake-up call, as it has compelled politics to act and banks have brought some relief. Slovenia will manage without the manage the state in a more responsible manner. The Government of “bailout”, financial help which did more harm than good in the Alenka Bratušek is aware that it does not have much leeway in seeking countries that received it. The stress tests and asset quality reviews, solutions for the problems that have piled up over the years and that conducted by Oliver Wyman, Roland Berger, Deloitte and Ernst & it can no longer count on the people to be understanding. After five Young (incidentally, these tests and reviews were fairly expensive, years of economic recession, people are losing patience and, quite costing EUR 21 million), have revealed that the Slovenian banking rightly, expect politicians to lay their cards on the table and present a system has a capital shortfall of EUR 4.778 billion and that EUR 3.012 credible plan for the future. The Government did just that, providing billion will be needed to recapitalise the three biggest Slovenian an objective assessment of the Slovenian banking system, although banks. What is most relevant to Slovenian taxpayers, however, is the this is only the first step towards recovery. Slovenia reasonably expects amount needed to recapitalise state-owned banks or banks for which that the international financial markets will respond to this favourably the state provided guarantees, this totalling EUR 3.6 billion. This is a and that interest rates for borrowing will be brought down to tolerable huge amount for Slovenia, whose annual budget totals only some EUR levels, enabling it to repay costly loans with less expensive money and 8 to 9 billion, but it is manageable: the state will secure two-thirds of secure economic growth. That is behind the title “and yet it moves”. these funds in cash and one-third in marketable government bonds. European Commission Vice-President Olli Rehn also commented This also holds for measures taken by the Government to curb the on the results of the stress tests of Slovenian banks, saying that the shadow economy. Stricter controls by the Tax Administration and response of the Slovenian authorities was convincing and robust and market inspectors and an intense media campaign conducted in that it demonstrated the fact that the overall economic recovery of the recent months have borne fruit: this year, 16.5% more tax revenue eurozone is now underway. This sends an important message both to has been collected than in the comparable period last year, which the international public, in particular the financial markets, and to is very encouraging, as is the fact that people are becoming more the Slovenian public, whose self-image is seriously fragile after years understanding of the stricter measures. There have been, however, a of economic downturn and which urgently needs a boost to its self- few comments about the Government only going after the small fry – confidence. the caterers, hairdressers, florists, tyre mechanics and the like – rather than the big fish, but this is changing too. New Government measures Yet for sure the total capital shortfall of “only” EUR 4.7 billion is still require the introduction of certified cash registers for everyone, nothing to boast about, as this figure proves that the current situation including those in well-paid professions, such as dentists and lawyers. is the result of poor bank management and a number of amateurish Moreover, legislation is being passed to introduce a 70% tax rate on mistakes in the management of banks and, ultimately, the entire state- assets of unknown origin. If it turns out that assets were obtained owned assets management system. In this regard, we should certainly illegally, the competent authorities may even confiscate them. find out who is responsible. Slovenia and, in particular, its politicians are characterised by their inability or unwillingness to solve economic The most important thing for the future of Slovenia is regaining and political problems which, swept under the carpet of coalition deals credibility and the trust of its citizens. The objective analysis of the and agreements, piled up to such an extent that they were impossible to Slovenian banking system and consistent implementation of laws are conceal at home, let alone abroad. Looking at it from this point of view, both part of the start of this process. however, the economic and financial crisis in Slovenia may actually

4 Government Communication Office Tanja Glogovčan what’s up? Photo: D aniel Novaković/ST Visit to Moscow

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Alenka Bratušek, met the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, in December. Their talks focused on the economic cooperation be-

tween the two countries. A

The two Prime Ministers agreed that “Slovenia and Russia have devel- oped very good political relations and strong economic cooperation.” They expressed their believe that the South Stream project, developed by the Russian energy giant Gazprom, will be carried out. Besides the pipeline, the Russian Prime Minister pointed to tourism, information and communication technology, and pharmaceutics as areas offering ample opportunities for cooperation. The visit was also devoted to the Russian–Slovenian investment conference, at which Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek met some 60 businesspeople, most of them from Bearing in mind that Slovenian investments in Russia exceed Russian Russia. investments in Slovenia, Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek said that there was still ample room for more Russian investment here. Pointing to the opportunities available, she drew attention to the planned privatisation of several state companies.

A President Mandela, an icon of the previous and this century Photo: Xinhua/ST Photo: Slovenian leaders have paid tribute to the deceased former President of South Africa. Slovenian President Pahor attended a Memorial Ser- vice for Mr Mandela.

The President of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, wrote: “Nel- son Mandela had a dream that cost him more than a quarter of a century of imprisonment. He then made the dream become reality without taking revenge on those who had tried to rob him of it. With his commitment and loyalty to his nation and ideals of a better and fairer society, President Mandela has inspired the whole world.” In her message of condolence, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Alenka Bratušek, wrote: “It is difficult to imagine the 20th century without President Mandela’s inspiring efforts to fight rac- ism in his homeland and Africa as a whole or without his support for Hundreds of world leaders gather in Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium for Nelson oppressed people throughout the world. President Mandela will al- Mandela’s memorial service ways stand as a prominent and peaceful fighter for freedom, equali- ty and democracy. We trust that future generations will continue his fight until reaching the ultimate goal — a world free from injustice.” Photo: D aniel Novaković/ST In Memoriam: Jože Trontelj

The President of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Jože Trontelj, died in December. Paying tribute to Professor Trontelj, the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, said that his sci-

entific work and valuable contributions both at home and abroad A had set high standards not only in the field of science but also in eth- ics and values.

Jože Trontelj was elected to the Slovenian Academy of Science and Arts in 1991, becoming its Vice-President in 2002 and President in 2008. He chaired the National Medical Ethics Committee and served as a Slovenian delegate in the Steering Committee on Bioethics of the Council of Europe; he also participated in the preparation of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and the Dignity of the Human Being with Regard to the Application of Biology and Medicine and its Protocols, particularly the Protocol on Biomedical Research. The President of the National Assembly, Janko Veber, and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Alenka Bratušek, also expressed their deep appreciation of the work of the late President of the Slovenian Academy of Science and Arts.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 5 ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA Matjaž Kek, EYC national contact point

European Year of Citizens The campaign placed special emphasis on young people

The Government Communication Office (GCO) this year. Promotional activities were diverse in was the national coordinator of the European content, with some continuing next year. Year of Citizens (EYC) campaign in Slovenia

Project entitled “Europe in school” was undertaken by the Friends of Youth Federation of Slovenia

As part of the Management Part- “Europe in school” and devoted used as starting points for prob- nership mechanism, the GCO, in to pupils and secondary school lem solving. cooperation with the European students was undertaken by the Commission, the European Parlia- Friends of Youth Federation of New activities of ministries ment and various contractors, or- Slovenia. As many as 263 edu- and Your Europe ganised at 15 venues across Slove- cation institutions, 590 mentors The campaign’s mission, of nia more than 30 events targeting and 6,973 children and young course, would not have been ac- different groups and topics asso- people entered 6,120 creations for complished without a web pres- ciated with European citizenship. the competition with the slogan ence and attendance at festivals, The campaign placed special em- “European citizenship gives me fairs and conferences. National phasis on young people. According opportunities and rights but how contact points, info centres and to the organizers’ data, more than well do I know them?” A joint NGOs also played an active role in 10,000 people participated in per- project of two primary schools these activities. In line with their son or virtually in these activities. and one secondary school linking objectives, the ministries and different creative topics won this government services also made Rights for vulnerable groups “connecting” competition, held an effort to implement at least for the first time this year. In their projects co-financed one project. The Interior Ministry, with tendered funds, non-gov- for example, informed EU citi- Slovenia and Europe on televi- ernmental organisations (NGOs) zens from other Member States sion focused on raising awareness of who are now residing in Slovenia vulnerable groups’ rights stem- EYC topics in television broad- about administrative procedures, ming from European citizenship. casts contributed to the success the Finance Ministry provided Vulnerable groups include people of awareness-raising among citi- essential information on Slove- living below the poverty thresh- zens. Special credit for this goes to nia’s tax system to EU citizens old, young job-seekers, young the broadcast “Slovenians – Eu- who are not Slovenians, and the The campaign placed people without education, peo- ropeans” on RTV SLO channel 3. Education Ministry introduced ple older than 65, persons with special emphasis on In addition, videos were posted a new subject on patriotic and special needs and those without on social media and web portals. civic education in the curriculum. young people. According compulsory health insurance. The broadcasts highlighted the Special focus was on the promo- to the organizers’ data, NGOs carried out 13 projects, with everyday problems of European tion of Your Europe, a web portal more than 10,000 co-financing totalling 61,000 eu- citizens in the area of the single where two clicks will take you to ros. the relevant institution that can people participated in market. The practical aspects of the citizen’s rights were described help you resolve your problem or Europe in school person or virtually in and the actual situations and per- conflict. these activities. A separate EYC project entitled sonal stories of European citizens

6 Government Communication Office Vesna Žarkovič ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA interview

Miroslav Mozetič, MSc President of the Constitutional Court In these times of financial and social crisis, the Constitutional Court faces new challenges A Photo: D aniel Novaković/ST Photo:

Miroslav Mozetič was employed by the Constitutional Court as a senior advisor in February 2000 and was appointed deputy secretary- general of the Court in 2001. In mid 2005 he was appointed director-general of the Directorate for Legislation of the Ministry of Justice and at the beginning of 2006 as head of the Legislative and Legal Service of the National Assembly. He is also currently deputy president of the state legal examination commission and an examiner for constitutional law and the foundations of EU law for the civil service examination. His master’s thesis, entitled Parlamentarna preiskava v pravnem redu Republike Slovenije [Parliamentary Inquiry in the Legal System of the Republic of Slovenia], was published as a book. He is one of the authors of the Commentary on the Constitution of the Republic of Slovenia. He commenced his duties as a judge at the Constitutional Court on 31 October 2007. He was Vice- President of the Constitutional Court from 11 January 2010 until 10 November 2013 and assumed the office of President of the Constitutional Court on 11 November 2013.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 7 ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA interview Photo: D aniel Novaković/ST A

The Constitutional Court is composed of nine Constitutional Court judges, elected on the proposal of the Presi- dent of the Republic by the National Assembly. Any citizen of the Repub- lic of Slovenia who is a legal expert and has reached at least 40 years of age may be elected a Constitutional Court judge. Constitutional Court judges are elected for a term of nine years and may not be re-elected. The President of the Constitutional Court is elected by the judges from among their own number for a term of three years.

Mr Mozetič, after six years of ity. Some decisions we wish to cal views, especially on current working as a judge, on 11 No- adopt with the greatest possible issues, is a different matter. I vember you took over the lead- majority or, if possible, unani- believe that judges should avoid ership of the highest judicial mously. Of course, such cases such declarations. body in the country. Will your require many sessions. style of leadership introduce Expectations are that heading any changes? The ideological diversity of the the Constitutional Court will I have been part of the Consti- judges undoubtedly affects be particularly demanding in tutional Court since 2000, when your decisions. To what extent these times of crisis, and will I started here as an adviser, and should Constitutional Court pose new challenges for you. I dare say I know this institu- judges declare their political Do you expect the number of tion well. As president I am the views to the public and how constitutional challenges to first among equals. The judicial much does that influence the acts related to resolving the function is the same for every- decisions of the Court? crisis to rise during your term one, and the president has no Political views do not affect our of office? special powers or privileges. decisions. However, it is true Definitely. This has already -oc I will lead the Constitutional that each judge has his/her val- curred during the term of office Court in a democratic way and ues that influence his/her deci- of the previous president. Par- in cooperation (and agreement) sions. But I see this as an advan- ticularly in the last two years, with all the judges. tage, as in this way we develop we have received requests and a tolerance for different values motions concerning acts that But you did arrange the furni- and beliefs. This is particularly were adopted because of the ture in your office differently evident in cases concerning the economic situation in the coun- from your predecessor, Dr most sensitive constitutional try. Such acts generally affect a The Constitutional Petrič. issues, and rightly so. You see, range of social rights, labour Court is and will I wanted to have more light at the Constitution itself is based rights, salaries and social-se- remain the guardian of my desk, so I had it moved clos- on values. Human dignity and curity benefits and taxes. We er to the window. freedom are the Constitution’s have already encountered these constitutionality and basic premise for the regulation issues (acts) and will certainly legality and the guardian Do judges sometimes reach of social and political relation- face them in the future. of human rights and deadlock when deciding on a ships. This is also the basis for fundamental freedoms. case? human rights and fundamental For example? Of course it happens, and quite freedoms, which the Constitu- The Real Property Tax Act. At To responsibly fulfil this often, that we do not conclude tion declares and protects. So I the moment we are considering obligation is important the case in one session. Any say again, the fact that we are the Fiscal Balance Act, two years for the respect and substantive decision has to be different is positive. As a result ago we decided on referendums functioning of the rule adopted by at least five judges. of this, different aspects of a on the acts concerning the pen- The number of sessions required constitutional issue are consid- sion system, bad banks and the of law. We are aware for one case depends on its ered, discussions have greater sovereign holding. I don’t know that only we ourselves complexity. We decide on sim- depth and decisions adopted what is currently being drafted can build our reputation ple cases after one session, but at the end are more carefully in the National Assembly. Any for more difficult ones we gen- thought out and therefore more one of such acts could end up by making sound and erally hold more sessions, until convincing, not to say more on our table, if only because convincing decisions. we achieve the required major- just. However, declaring politi- they affect so many people.

8 Government Communication Office ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA interview A Photo: Stanko Gruden/ST Stanko Photo:

Miroslav Mozetič, Msc, replaces Dr Ernest Petrič, who served as the head of the country’s top court since November 2010. Petrič remains at the court as a constitutional court judge. His nine-year term expires in 2017. In the photo: Dr Ernest Petrič, President of the Republic of Slovenia Borut Pahor and Miroslav Mozetič, MSc.

One of the problems you en- not reached or when the public the case. But then the National counter in your work is that is not included in the discussion Assembly adopts it despite the some matters submitted for but should be. We must remem- warnings of specialist services. your consideration do not fall ber that 30 deputies can sub- It is a useful experience. within your jurisdiction. mit a request for review of the If they are not within our ju- constitutionality of an act. They Did you ever have problems as risdiction, the solution is quite may be from the “voted-down” a deputy because of that? simple. We dismiss them. How- minority, the opposition. If the I did. I knew that some solutions ever, many matters that do fall matter concerns a threat to the were being adopted contrary within our jurisdiction are often rights of employees, unions may to the Constitution, but other charged with political elements, also submit a request. There are than voting against it, there was which shows that the National a lot of possibilities for trying to nothing I could do. The parties Assembly does not always de- resolve issues that have not been had made an agreement, the co- vote enough time to discussion resolved in the National Assem- alition had coordinated its views in order to settle as many open bly at the Constitutional Court. and no longer wished to listen to issues and dilemmas as pos- the warnings of the legal ser- sible. The governing side some- You are one of the rare judges vices. times adopts an act too quickly. of the Constitutional Court who This can lead to politically very were once politicians. You were Which raises the concern sensitive discussions in the pub- a deputy from the Slovenian whether the Constitution is re- lic. It would certainly be better if Christian Democrats for eight spected enough in this country. politically sensitive issues were years and you were also an at- Is Slovenia a state governed by resolved in the National Assem- torney. How does your past the rule of law? bly, as the National Assembly is experience affect your current It is difficult to answer that. You the legislator. It must adopt acts work? see, the Constitution regulates The responsibility of the that are in accordance with the Much like any experience a per- all institutions and elements Constitutional Court is to Constitution. The responsibility son acquires through work. It is of the modern rule of law in a assess their conformity of the Constitutional Court is to true that in the current compo- modern way. At this level Slove- assess their conformity with the sition of the Court I am the only nia is definitely a very constitu- with the Constitution. Constitution. We have to make one with experience of how the tional state governed by the rule We have to make decisions on the basis of the National Assembly functions, or of law. However, the problem is decisions on the basis Constitution and in accordance rather, how deputies and their that it appears that we do not of the Constitution and with the rules of our profession, groups function, which helps me apply the Constitution in prac- and not based on politics, even in my work. I am familiar with tice. Many things do not work in accordance with the when we receive a request or certain backgrounds, with how or work poorly. This is probably rules of our profession, motion for the review of consti- procedures are run, how things the cause of the strong feeling and not based on tutionality of a politically very are coordinated. This is why I among the public, both lay and politics, even when sensitive act. can sometimes more or less expert, that we do not have the feel why the National Assem- rule of law or that we have two we receive a request or When does this most often oc- bly adopted a certain decision, “rules of law”, one for the privi- motion for the review cur? despite the strong probability of leged and another for ordinary of constitutionality of a When the National Assembly is it not being in accordance with citizens. Whether these feelings unable or unwilling to reach an the Constitution or even when it or in some cases convictions are politically very sensitive agreement, when consensus is had been warned that this was right or not is difficult to assess, act.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 9 ON THE POLITICAL AGENDA interview

tional Court, consider that the A Constitutional Court should re- spond to controversy sparked off by any important deci- sion of the Court and explain such decisions in more detail? It is right for the Constitutional Photo: Stanko Gruden/ST Stanko Photo: Court to be open to the public and to offer additional explana- tions, if necessary, for example Because the National Assembly limit- on what constitutional issue ed or even scrapped the possibility to was considered in the decision call a referendum in some cases (such and what the decision means. as fiscal matters), Mozetič expects to Decisions are often quite com- see more issues related to crisis laws plicated and sometimes un- to be referred to the Constitutional Court. clear and hard to understand. However, the Court should not particularly from the position of What instruments does the become involved in arguments the President of the Constitu- Constitutional Court have at about why it adopted a certain tional Court. This feeling that its disposal when the legisla- decision, why it did not inter- we have two rules of law cer- tor does not respect your deci- pret a certain right further or tainly arises every time indi- sions? why it did not “overlook” a pro- vidual people are treated differ- The Constitutional Court does cedural restriction and consider ently. Some are privileged and not initiate procedures of its own the substance of the issue. are not punished even when volition. It only decides on the they break the law, while oth- basis of a request or motion and Do you think that the Constitu- ers are prosecuted even when on the basis of a constitutional tional Court enjoys enough re- they are supposedly innocent. complaint. If it establishes, in spect in the public? I cannot tell you if it is really proceedings initiated in this way, I think it enjoys a fair amount a case of different treatment, that an act or provision thereof of respect, although we do not discrimination and arbitrary is not in accordance with the carry out opinion polls in this decisions. However, I can say Constitution, it abrogates it or, regard. I am aware that our rep- that we have encountered such in certain specific cases, it can utation to great extent depends conduct in some cases. All this, merely establish unconstitu- on our decisions and it probably of course, gives the impres- tionality. When a provision is changes accordingly. Sometimes sion that we have a dual rule abrogated, there is no problem, it is better and sometimes a little of law or that not everyone is as it may no longer be applied. less good. Sometimes one side treated equally. The judiciary However, in the case of a declar- criticises and the other praises is the most frequent target in atory decision, the Constitution- and vice versa. But we never this respect, despite being only al Court imposes on the National dismiss critical opinions from one of the authorities, but it is Assembly the task of remedying the profession. We carefully ex- the most important one for the the established unconstitution- amine them with great interest. formation of convictions on ality within a specified period. If Notwithstanding the criticism the existence or non-existence the National Assembly does not or praise, the rule always applies of the rule of law. It is difficult comply with the decision of the that we judges decide as we have to say if all the allegations are Constitutional Court, the Court pledged in our oath – in accor- justified. It is very difficult for may, in exceptional cases, by dance with the Constitution, me to assess that. I, personally, way of execution “prescribe” a the law and our conscience. The also have mixed feelings about statutory norm in new proceed- Constitutional Court is and will the subject. But I do not accept ings. The Constitutional Court remain the guardian of consti- generalised statements that the also adopts interpretative deci- tutionality and legality and the judiciary is incompetent, cor- sions. guardian of human rights and rupted and biased. I agree that fundamental freedoms. To re- we are only half way through There was much controversy sponsibly fulfil this obligation It is right for the the process of implementing the over the Constitutional Court is important for the respect and Constitutional Court to Constitution, and that there are decision of December 2012, functioning of the rule of law. whereby it declared that the many things that do not work We are aware that only we our- be open to the public referendums on the acts con- well. Therefore, it is the respon- selves can build our reputation cerning bad banks and the and to offer additional sibility of us all, and particularly by making sound and convinc- Slovenian Sovereign Holding explanations, if ing decisions. the legislative, executive and would have been unconstitu- necessary, for example judiciary branches of power, to tional. The judges assessed that on what constitutional really implement the Constitu- the failure of the acts to pass the We wish you every success in tion, so that everyone, or at least your work as the President of issue was considered in referendum would have posed the great majority, will be con- a threat to the smooth opera- the Constitutional Court. the decision and what vinced that Slovenia is ruled by tion of the state. Do you, as the Thank you very much. the decision means. the law and not people. new president of the Constitu-

10 Government Communication Office Tanja Glogovčan IN FOCUS

Traces of Slovenian identity viewed through museum collections Between nature and culture

A museum exhibition is an interpretive visual space, tales of the past and the present. One of the medium for the theoretical model of a particular permanent exhibitions at the Slovene Ethnographic sector. This applies especially to permanent museum Museum, the main ethnographic museum in exhibitions, whose permanence is only illusory. They Slovenia, is titled Between nature and culture. are the illusion of something permanent in time and

Cradles had been used by the nobility and wealthy townspeople at least until the late Middle Ages. Cradles were not only used for sleeping – babies spent whole days in them. They were carried in cradles to the fields, to christenings and if a baby Photo: Marko Habič/S E M Photo: died, it was also buried in it.

This exhibition is about the dynamics between the natural and the cultural. It informs visitors about the tangible and intangible This exhibition is about the dy- characteristics, as reflected in the offered by the exhibition. One of heritage of Slovenians namics between the natural and types of settlements, architecture, the curiosities of this introduc- and certain cultures the cultural. It informs visitors music, dance and language. tion to the exhibition that cer- about the tangible and intangible tainly attracts our attention is the outside Europe. heritage of Slovenians and cer- The objects of life and desire skis from Bloke. Slovenians are tain cultures outside Europe. The still considered a nation of ski- Regional distinctions in basic cuts of oldest objects exhibited are from The introductory story at the en- ers. A Slovenian as a mower with national costumes were noticeable until the mid-19th century. A couple the 16th century, and alongside trance to the permanent exhi- a scythe and his awareness of from the rural milieu of Bohinj (after them are quite modern objects. bition is a collage representing his own individuality are repre- a watercolour by F. K. Goldenstein, The exhibition is supplemented relationships between people sented, for example, by the whet- Carniola, 1844). Peasants from the by audiovisual presentations, i.e. and objects and views of tangible stone holder. This small marginal surroundings of Prem in the Karst a multivision, an ethnographic heritage, which reveals to us its object, a scything tool, and its region (after a watercolour by F. K. Goldenstein, Carniola, 1844). Country film and audiovisual collages. various objects. But when does owner, were an exceptional part wedding procession in Poljane The multivision “Who am I, who the story begin? Is a human with- of the rural culture of that time. Valley along the Kolpa River (after are we” in the introductory part out objects really just a vulner- Other important identification a watercolour by F. K. Goldenstein, of the exhibition presents Slove- able being? This story is a possible symbols include a headdress, na- Carniola, 1844). nian ethnological areas and their answer – but not the only one – tional costumes and a hayrack. Photo: Archives of SEM

Sinfo – Slovenian information 11 IN FOCUS Photo: Habič/S E M Marko

Foreigners, people overseas, Turks, Jews, Huns and Mongols have traditionally aroused negative feelings in Slovenians. The Slovenian folk tradition of ‘unknown’ foreign peoples survived not only in fairy- tales, sayings and folk songs, but also in folk art, such as in painted beehive panels with motifs of Turks. In the photo: a Turk with a pipe on a beehive panel

Water and earth Necessary and unnecessary A residence, a home, a dwellin

To live and survive. With what? Most certainly one of the more There are two types prevalent Our ancestors have always picked notable exhibits is lace. Lace is in Slovenia – farmhouses and edible forest fruit (blueberries, a fabric made of textile or metal bourgeois villas. Castles are not strawberries, mushrooms, chest- thread with patterns of holes. The so frequent. In this part of the ex- nuts, hazelnuts), collected birch, function of lace has always been hibition there is fireplace equip- elm and maple sap, gathered related to status. For a long time ment, cutlery, chairs, chests and medicinal herbs and plants and it was a privilege of the nobility cradles. Highly notable among fruit used in animal husbandry and Church. Because of its rarity the decorative objects are chests, Highly notable among (e.g. bundled branches for ovine and high value it was mostly used which were the most common the decorative objects and caprine animals, beech nuts, as a trimming or a visible part of piece of furniture in the Slovenian acorns and horse-chestnuts for a garment. However, prestige in lands from the Middle Ages to the are chests, which were pig feed), plant material for fuel Slovenia was reflected not only 19th century. As for the method the most common and construction materials. Slo- in lace and embroidery; we must of manufacture and decoration, piece of furniture in the venians are particularly known not overlook the costumes. There chests were hewed, carved, inlaid for beekeeping. Beehive panels are three main types of national or painted. The lid was usually flat Slovenian lands from combine the industry and artistic costume in Slovenia – the Alpine, or gabled and the decoration was the Middle Ages to the sense of Slovenians. Primorska and Pannonian. geometric. 19th century. As for the method of manufacture and decoration, chests Photo: Habič/S E M Marko were hewed, carved, inlaid or painted.

Carved chests were mostly used in western Slovenia.

12 Government Communication Office IN FOCUS Photo: Marko Habič/S E M Photo:

Wheel plough, Poljščica near Bled, in use until 1910.

Social and spiritual rural families decorated a “God’s Nativity scene was set up in the corner” with evergreen plants Jesuit church of St. James in Lju- This part of the exhibition is about or hung a spruce under the ceil- bljana in 1644. Slovenia’s regions humans as social creatures and ing. They made ceremonial pas- are also rich in manners and cus- about those aspects of their lives try and dishes, sprinkled homes toms related to Easter, Shrovetide that exceed the material needs and fields with holy water and and patron saints. of survival. It presents the hu- burnt incense. Before the Second man wish to communicate with World War, there were mostly Reflections of distant lands A nativity scene the supernatural, in Slovenia two figures bearing gifts to chil- is usually a three- mostly through Christianity, and dren, St. Nicholas (Miklavž) and In the concluding part of the ex- dimensional miniature the need for music and art. The Father Christmas. After the Sec- hibition, the historical reflection Christmas and New Year customs ond World War, Grandfather Frost of other lands (Australia, Oceania, representation of the overshadowed the pre-Christian took over their role. A nativity Asia, the Americas, Africa) offers birth of Jesus Christ and celebrations of winter bonfires, a scene is usually a three-dimen- a concise presentation of objects the shepherds and Magi time favourable for doing magic sional miniature representation from museum collections outside and foretelling, when fire and ev- of the birth of Jesus Christ and the Europe. paying tribute to him. ergreen plants were considered shepherds and Magi paying trib- In Slovenia, the first to have special power. In the past, ute to him. In Slovenia, the first Nativity scene was set up in the Jesuit church of Photo: Habič/S E M Marko St. James in Ljubljana in 1644. Photo: Marko Habič/S E M Photo: Cabinet nativity scene, probably from the Selca Valley, mid-19th century. Photo: Habič/S E M Marko

Sinfo – Slovenian information 13 ININ FFOCUS INTERVIEW Tanja Glogovčan

Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar Research and communicating our knowledge of the wealth of ethnological heritage are of key importance

The Slovene Ethnographic Museum (SEM) has fairly deep roots, reaching back beyond 1923, when the Royal Ethnographic Museum was established. The Provincial Museum of Carniola established in 1821 already stored ethnographic collections. Photo: Personal archives

Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar is an ethnologist, art historian and sociologist; she is employed as a curator of folk art and pictorial sources at the Slovene Ethnographic Museum (SEM), of which she has been the director since 2005. Her research fields are the interpretation of Slovene sources, visual culture, the museum’s history and the symbolism of national identity. She was awarded the Valvasor Prize for the exhibition Love is in the Air – Love Gifts in Traditional Slovenian Culture. She is the co-author of the permanent museum exhibition Between Nature and Culture. Her major publications are The Slovene Ethnographic Museum: A Journey through Time and Only Partly through Space, Painted Beehive Panels and Depicted Traces of National Identity.

14 Government Communication Office IN FOCUS INTERVIEW rchives of S E M rchives Photo: A Photo:

The majority of funding for the SEM’s activities comes from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Slovenia. Additionally, the museum is also in- volved in European projects. Admis- sion fees, the renting of premises for lectures, coffee shop and pottery ate- lier are additional sources of income. The museum strives to acquire spon- sorships and donations for individual projects. As the director of the museum, or in transition, for which we atively young, but he managed you must have certain priority joined forces with the Academy to collect many artefacts for the tasks. What are they? of Visual Arts Ljubljana, whose museum collection during his Research and communicating students contemplated transi- active expert period. His collec- our knowledge of the wealth of tions visually and devised sev- tion was a good foundation for ethnological heritage are of key eral installations and construc- the museum’s development. Dr importance; on how Slovenians tions. We created a copyright Rajko Ložar, who managed the struggled to survive, in what film entitled ‘Time of Aliquot museum during the World War way and how we realised our Parts’, which was made by vid- II, made a particular impres- everyday and festive occasions, eo-maker Miha Vipotnik, who sion on it, and as the editor, saw what values we nurtured and used our film material and new to the publishing of the mono- how we created the symbols of footage to create a cinematic graph Slovensko narodopisje our identity. I believe that such synthesis of symbolic harmony (Slovenian Ethnography), one of knowledge is also important for and the life of the museum. The the fundamental works in Slo- our identity today; it is a source central event was the opening of venian ethnological literature. of confidence and the creation the exhibition on doors, which After the war, he went into exile, of excellence for the future. was more than just a compre- and then moved to the United Therefore, our priority task will hensive ethnological interpreta- States. The management of the be further research, and the tion of the ethnological content, museum was taken over by Dr presentation and communica- but also symbolised the contin- Boris Orel, who developed a sys- tion of ethnologically relevant uous opening of the SEM’s doors tem of group research in Slove- topics in the discourse between to the public. nian ethnic territory. The teams past and present. included ethnologists, students, What is the story behind the art historians, sketchers, and The 90th anniversary of the museum’s establishment? others. They particularly re- museum was celebrated this The actual beginning of the eth- searched the folk culture of Slo- year. How did you mark these nographic museum dates back venian people. Over thirty such nine decades? to 1923, when Dr Niko Županič, teams were formed between the Research and We decided to celebrate the an ethnologist and anthropolo- post-war period and the 1970s, anniversary actively through- gist, was appointed director. At and it was these teams that col- communicating our out the year. The festivity was the time, the collection included lected the majority of the muse- knowledge of the wealth the central theme of all events. 3,502 exhibits. Soon after its es- um’s material, with regard to ar- of ethnological heritage At the scientific symposium, tablishment, Dr Stanko Vurnik, tefacts and documentation. The ‘Praznovanja: med tradicijo in the first curator, came to the mu- items were also recorded and are of key importance; sodobnostjo’ (Celebrations: be- seum and introduced planned photographed, and descriptions on how Slovenians tween tradition and modernity) field work, research and collect- of the items were drafted. The struggled to survive, in with our fellow ethnologists we ing. He focused particularly on period of Dr Boris Orel was truly what way and how we tried to establish what ethnol- researching Slovenian houses, a turning point and very active ogy means today in the context painted beehive panels and peča in terms of the development of realised our everyday of celebrations. We also used the (kerchief) as part of national museum work at the SEM. Dr and festive occasions, Summer Museum Night to pres- costumes in terms of their de- Boris Kuhar continued Orel’s what values we nurtured ent the ‘Passages’ project, be- velopment, typology and histo- work. His period saw numerous and how we created the cause we think that a museum ry, using the methodology of art temporary exhibitions, which is constantly being transformed history. He died in 1932, still rel- were thematic and dedicated symbols of our identity.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 15 IN FOCUS INTERVIEW Photo: A rchives of S E M

The actual beginning of the ethno- graphic museum dates back to 1923.

to crafts, national costumes, periodicals and organise various hive panels, a collection of na- architecture, etc. They also fo- projects funded from European tional costumes and their com- cused on professional groups, funds. I can say that we have ponents, embroidery, various such as the wood-workers and become a modern ethnologi- small craft products and the like. sawyers of the Southern Pohorje cal museum with diverse mu- At this point, I should also men- and rafters on the Savinja River. seum activities, which focuses tion the efforts of archaeologist At the time, these were impor- on our mission of researching, Walter Schmid at the beginning tant new subjects, which also presenting and communicating of the 20th century, since he saw the opening of the Museum ethnological knowledge, and dedicated his time to collecting of Non-European Cultures in integrating contemporaneity ethnographic artefacts at the Goričane near Medvode, which with tradition in the culture and Provincial Museum of Carniola focused on non-European col- way of life of Slovenians in their and also organised the presen- lections and hosted numerous homeland, spanning its borders tation of collections in Vienna. exhibitions with non-European and further abroad and their themes. So that was a very ac- dialogue with the world. In your opinion, what is the re- tive time also in terms of pro- lation between museums and moting ethnological content What were the first collections? the formation of Slovenian na- and materials. The non-European collections tional identity in the past and were the first that initiated the today? However, it is true that there collection of ethnographic ma- We know from the past that our was always a desire to have an terial. The first was the so-called museum predecessors tried very independent ethnographic mu- Baraga Collection of artefacts hard to influence the formation seum in Slovenia in one loca- from the Ojibwa and Ottawa of Slovenian national identity. tion. tribes of North America, which Unfortunately, they did not have That is true. We were able to do missionary Friderik Baraga sent such good conditions and the that in the 1990s. Two build- to Ljubljana in the 1830s. An- means that we have today. Our ings of the former barracks on other important non-European goal is actually the same. We Metelkova were renovated. One collection was that of Ignacij wish to share our knowledge is now the office building and Knoblehar; it came from South- about the ethnological heritage Certain visitors to the the second serves for exhibi- ern Sudan, where he worked as as the reflection and expression tions. We were also able to ar- a missionary in the mid-1800s. of the national identity past and SEM are still interested range storage facilities here, He studied the people along the present, and pride in its richness in the ‘classical’ which were previously located White Nile and collected mate- of content and expression, with ethnographic heritage. at the premises of the Ursu- rial evidence about their lives. It Slovenians and visitors from line Convent in Škofja Loka. was only towards the end of the abroad. We also strive to estab- However, our expert We were thus able to develop 19th century that the collection lish intercultural dialogue and efforts are directed a programme with two per- of ethnographic material relat- emphasise the wealth of cultur- towards putting exhibits manent exhibitions and many ing to Slovenians living in Car- al diversity. I think that we have in context, i.e. to modern temporary exhibitions, public niola actually began. The first an excellent museum, which programmes for children, youth collections of the ethnographic serves as a means to attain these ethnological and and adults, and various work- museum began to emerge, such goals with every new project. museum approaches. shops. We publish books and as the collection of painted bee- We have also noticed that the

16 Government Communication Office IN FOCUS INTERVIEW rchives of S E M rchives Photo: A Photo:

“We wish to communicate more about the artefacts to our visitors – who used them, when and why; what relationships developed towards these objects, their significance, and so on. We want visitors to learn more about these objects and to think about their own experience with similar objects and phenomena”, said Dr Bojana Rogelj Škafar.

crisis has caused something of were more interested in spiri- of exhibits from the new Mu- a decline in the number of visi- tual culture in the 19th century, seum of Fishing in Križ near tors. But we still pursue our ob- in the form of folk songs, tales Trieste is to be published soon. jectives and wish to continue to and sayings, for example; to- attract visitors with high-quali- wards the end of the 19th cen- A permanent exhibition is im- ty and content-rich projects. We tury, their attention was drawn portant for every museum. You hope that a visit to the museum to material culture, particularly have two of them. will give them a memorable ex- to its aesthetic components, In 2006, we opened the first ex- perience and make them want as symbols of national iden- hibition, entitled ‘Between Na- to return. tity: more precisely, to national ture and Culture’. We wanted to costumes, decorated furniture, showcase the wealth of our col- Where did Slovenians obtain architecture, and painted bee- lections; until then, most of the most knowledge and artefacts hive panels. In the 1930s, some collections were kept in stor- for ethnological collections? people tried to integrate these age due to the lack of exhibition Which artefacts and fields of components into a distinctive premises. The material, social ethnography were most inter- Slovenian national style. Cer- and spiritual culture of Slove- esting to Slovenians in the past tain visitors to the SEM are still nians relating to nature and and which now? interested in the ‘classical’ eth- tangible objects used every day Field work and study form the nographic heritage. However, or on special occasions were our basis for expert and research our expert efforts are directed starting points. The second per- work. If we look back at the towards putting exhibits in con- manent exhibition, ‘I, We and work of our predecessors, who text, i.e. to modern ethnological Others – Images of My World’, are still our ideals, we see that and museum approaches. focuses on individuals and their collections, knowledge about identities. We are continuously them and the theoretical bases How do Slovenians who do not improving it by inviting indi- produced by comparative stud- live in their homeland contrib- viduals to showcase their life ies are the results of their inten- ute to museum collections? stories relating to this exhibi- sive expert efforts, which can The project ‘Ročnadela.org’ must tion. This is not a static exhibi- be realised today particularly be mentioned here; it is an on- tion; it lives on. In this respect, by participating in international line archive organised in coop- we could say that the SEM is an trends and organisations and eration with Slovenian women inclusive and participatory mu- by transferring best practices to living in Australia who helped seum. our environment. In recent de- to collect, evaluate and contex- cades, the need – which must tualise handicrafts important And other interesting exhibi- also be our commitment – has for their identity. The project’s tions? been growing for knowledge website enables it to continue. The most topical exhibition at about ethnological heritage We also cooperate with foreign the moment is ‘Doors. Spatial We decided to celebrate that is acquired through expert collection holders and publish and Symbolic Passageways of the anniversary actively work is passed on to the pub- a special series called ‘Zbirke s Life’ which commemorates the throughout the year. The lic. About the interest of Slove- te ali one strani?’ (Collections 90th anniversary of the mu- festivity was the central nians in ethnographic themes in from This or the Other Side?). seum. the past, we could say that they The catalogue of the collection theme of all events.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 17 IN FOCUS

where non-European collec-

ustria tions will be presented from the viewpoint of the Austrians. This is the same principle that we follow in the SEM in the relation

thnology Vienna, A Vienna, thnology between Slovenians and other cultures. Among ethnographic museums with national collec- tions, I do not have a favourite. If I had to choose one, it would be our SEM in Ljubljana. rchives of the Museum of E rchives Do you also cooperate with em-

Photo: A Photo: bassies? We nurture contacts with for- eign embassies in Ljubljana. These contacts are occasional and include celebrations of their national holidays, when we try to combine them with exhibi- tions and thematic events which display their cultures and char- acteristics. One such example is our cooperation with the Em- In the photograph: Paul Schebesta. bassy of the Republic of Italy. A His missionary and anthropological few years ago, we organised a work focused particularly on Pygmies. very successful exhibition, ‘Ma- What is your cooperation with Art in Belgrade, and on online rimekko’, in cooperation with foreign museums like? exhibitions with museums with the Embassy of the Republic of We cooperate, for example, Asian collections. The coop- Finland. As an example of best with the Austrian Museum of eration with foreign museums practice, I can also mention our Folk Life and Folk Art in Vienna is very broad, also within the cooperation with the Consulate- and the Italian Museum of Uses framework of exhibition proj- General of Nepal, with which we and Customs of the Trentino ects. In 2004, when opening the share important national iden- People in San Michele all’Adige exhibition premises, we invited tity themes such as mountains, near Trento. We also cooperate 14 ethnographic museums from mountaineering and alpine with ethnographic museums in 14 countries to introduce themes climbing. To commemorate the Sofia, Warsaw, Marseille, Sko- that they considered important anniversary of the first success- pje and Zagreb, with whom we to the identity of their own na- ful climb of Mt Everest in 1953, have researched our common tions, thus making a collage of we are planning to organise an traditions of carnivals, organ- very interesting European sto- exhibition and hold an official ised a travelling exhibition and ries. ceremony in cooperation with conducted joint field work. The the Museum of Gorenjska. European Roma Route project Which of the world’s museums connected us with the British, do you find particularly inspir- What are you preparing for Germans and Romanians in ing? your visitors in 2014? Any new order to raise awareness on the In terms of its concept, the new surprises? wealth of Roma heritage in Eu- museum in Marseille is very Our central exhibition in 2014 rope. Among the projects dedi- interesting. It incorporates a will be dedicated to the magic cated to Roma culture, I should broader Mediterranean aspect in of amulets. However, we want to also mention the project, ‘I See its presentation and thus many continue to promote the exhibi- You – You See Me’, which we historical factors, influences and tion on doors. We are planning organised in cooperation with ways of life in the wider Medi- a special exhibition to mark our the Department of Sociology of terranean region. Some muse- cooperation with designer Mo- the Faculty of Arts in Ljubljana ums with non-European collec- jca Turk, who has been involved and Slovenian photojournal- tions are also very innovative. in creating the visual image of ists. Under their mentorship, the One of these is the museum the SEM for many years. We also Roma children photographed in Leiden in the Netherlands, plan an exhibition of illustra- people in their community and which has a very rich collec- tions by painter Huiqin Wang, Our central exhibition others. The exhibition of their tion, particularly from the co- which she is publishing in a photographs was showcased at lonial period, and it successfully book format; it will be dedicated in 2014 will be dedicated the Council of Europe in Brus- interacts with the countries of to the life and work of Avguštin to the magic of amulets. sels, in the Palace of Nations in origin of its collections. A new Hallerstein, a missionary and However, we want to Geneva, and elsewhere. In the permanent exhibition is taking astronomer born in Mengeš, field of non-European collec- shape at the World Museum in who worked at the Chinese im- continue to promote the tions, we particularly collabo- Vienna (formerly known as the perial court in Beijing in the sec- exhibition on doors. rate with the Museum of African Museum of Ethnology Vienna), ond half of the 18th century.

18 Government Communication Office Anja Polajnar IN FOCUS

Marking the 600th anniversary of the last enthronement of the Dukes of Carinthia Commemorating an ancient national ritual

In the year ahead, 600 years will have elapsed since the last enthronement of the Dukes of Carinthia on Gosposvetsko polje (Zollfeld). This was an ancient Slovenian ceremony at the state level, not known elsewhere in Europe.

The Prince’s Stone is a carved stone, the upended base of a Roman pillar which originally stood in the vicinity of Karnburg. The name Prince’s Stone is a translation of the German Fürstenstein. rchives of L ipa Maribor institution rchives The enthronement of Photo: A Photo: the Dukes of Carinthia was a special feudal rite originating from the ancient enthronement of the Dukes of Carantania and continued until 1414. The last to be enthroned by a peasant was Duke Ernest the Iron.

To mark the 600th anniver- to large audience by several The enthronement of the Dukes sary of the enthronement, the prominent Slovenian histori- of Carinthia was a special feu- Slovenian World Congress pre- ans who have researched the dal rite originating from the pared an introductory sympo- enthronement ceremony, sub- ancient enthronement of the sium, which was held under sequent aspects of events in Dukes of Carantania and con- The history of the Slovene nation from the auspices of the President of Austrian Carinthia and the at- tinued until 1414. The last to be the slavic colonisation to this day’ is the Republic of Slovenia, Borut titude towards this part of the enthroned by a peasant was the title of the epic mural by Slavko Pengov in the vestibule of the Large Pahor, with speeches given Slovenian ethnic territory. Duke Ernest the Iron. Hall of the Slovenian Parliament. ssembly rchives of National A of National rchives Photo: A Photo:

Sinfo – Slovenian information 19 in focus Photo: Personal archives

Dr Peter Štih

The history and features of this unique ceremony were studied in depth by the Slovenian historian Dr Peter Štih, who is a professor of medieval history and auxiliary his- torical sciences at the Department of History of the Fac- ulty of Arts in Ljubljana. Professor Štih is also an associate member of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and the author of a number of scientific and professional publications in the field of Slovenian medieval history.

The Enthronement of the Dukes Prince’s Stone drew particular tory, given that it took place in The enthronement of Carinthia is associated with attention since it completely the territory of the Duchy of a special ceremony, which was differed from the then custom- Carinthia (but originated from was a ceremony in not known in Europe. What is it ary feudal investiture. Because Carantania)? which the Duchy of about? of its archaism, it was “unique” The ceremony is interesting Carinthia symbolically The enthronement was a cer- – as defined by humanist Ae- rather than important. However, surrendered power to emony in which the Duchy of neas Silvius Piccolomini, later it led to the birth of the myth in Carinthia symbolically surren- Pope Pius II, after the discontin- Slovenian historical interpreta- the new Duke. dered power to the new Duke. uance of the ceremony. Owing tions that we are talking about The ceremony, dating from the to his description, the ceremony the monument to the ancient late Middle Ages, when it was also became known in wider Slovenian statehood and the first documented, was conduct- circles of European humanist ancient Slovenian democratic ed in the following way: the en- intellectuals. arrangement. This is also the thronement took place on a hill reason why the Prince’s Stone named Krnski grad (Karnburg), How was it that the ceremony has become one of the most where a peasant mounted the came to be held in the territory important Slovenian histori- Prince’s Stone and before him of the Duchy of Carinthia? cal symbols. In the early Middle appeared a new Duke wearing The ceremony took place in the Ages, at the time of Carantania, rustic dress. After receiving af- territory of the Duchy of Carin- the Slovenian identity did not firmative responses in Slovene thia because it originated from yet exist, and Carantanians, al- to the questions of whether the Slavic Carantania, to which the though Slavs, were still not Slo- Duke was worthy of becom- Duchy was a successor. And it is venians; furthermore, the suc- ing a ruler, the peasant surren- the Carantanian origin that ex- cessor of this ceremony was not dered the Prince’s Stone to him plains the Slovenian part of the a Slovenian nation, at the time and symbolically handed over ceremony at the Prince’s Stone. still non-formed, but the Duchy power. The second part of the But at the time, the ceremony of Carinthia. Also, the ceremony ceremony was then held in the was not yet “unique”, as similar does not constitute a symbol of church of San Maria in Solio, rituals are known to have been democratic arrangement, since where the new Duke received held elsewhere in early medi- the Middle Ages and its political blessings at the mass; its third eval Europe, where rulers were theories did not know any dem- part continued at the Prince’s enthroned on various stones. ocratic concept and the power Stone at Zollfeld, where the of the Duchy in Carantania was Duke bestowed the fiefs. The How relevant do you think this inheritable only within a single part of the ceremony held at the ceremony is for Slovenian his- family.

Ernest the Iron was the last population, and in the late Middle of Austria, Styria and Carinthia, Carinthian Duke to be en- Ages it became a prevailing lan- spent the last years of her life in a throned guage not only in the area of the small castle at Pristava nad Stično. ceremony but also in the wider In 1397, she instructed the monks One fact which merits a mention territory. For this reason, the par- to include her and her predeces- is that the ritual enthronement ticipants in the ceremony sang sors among the great benefactors of the Dukes of Carinthia on the Slovenian songs and the enthron- of the monastery – among the One fact which merits a Prince’s Stone was conducted in er received replies to his questions so-called founders. The Duchess Slovene. This is evident from me- in Slovene. is buried in the basilica at Stična, mention is that the ritual dieval written documents. The Ernest the Iron was the last Carin- where even today we can see the enthronement of the ceremony originates in the period thian Duke to be enthroned, this in stone built into the wall bearing Dukes of Carinthia on of Carantania, the Slavic Duchy. 1414. An interesting fact is that his the interesting coat of arms of the Slovene, or rather an older version mother, Duchess Viridis Visconti, Visconti family. Slovene museum the Prince’s Stone was thereof, was the language spoken a daughter of the Duke of Milan of Christianity prepared a special conducted in Slovene. by the majority of the Carinthian and the wife of Leopold III, Duke exhibition about her.

20 Government Communication Office IN FOCUS Photo: Personal archives Personal Photo:

Anja Doležalek The 600th anniversary Historian Anja Doležalek tells us how the 500th anniversary of the enthronement was marked in Slovenia 100 years ago. of the last enthronement of Dukes of Carinthia In what way was the 500th an- festivities and pilgrimages – were tion in Sarajevo and the result- will be marked by a niversary of the last enthrone- organised by various societies ing outbreak of the first world number of events. On ment of the Duke of Carinthia and were therefore primarily war. This was also the reason the occasion of the Days marked 100 years ago? What limited to the local environment. for cancelling the pilgrimage of were the plans and why were The major celebration, estimated believers from Carinthia to San of Slovenian Culture, the some of the planned events not to have been attended by around Maria in Solio, including a visit Lipa Maribor institution held? 1,000 visitors, took place in April to the Prince’s Stone in Klagen- for public presentation In the first half of 1914, Slove- in Maribor. The planned all-day furt, which had earlier been re- of Slovenian Culture will nians devoted much attention to event in Ljubljana was to in- scheduled due to severe ethnic the memory of the last enthrone- clude a visit by representatives of conflicts. The 500th anniversary organise various events ment of the Dukes of Carinthia Carinthian Slovenians, a people’s actually and unexpectedly took to be held from 20 to 29 500 years before. From March gathering, a religious service and place in March, owing to stu- June 2014 on Dravsko onwards, numerous events – a great celebration, but this was dents in Ljubljana, who organ- mostly lectures and celebrations, cancelled after the assassina- ised a memorial strike. polje.

The 600th anniversary Castle, reaching its highlight on petition to illustrate and present Statehood Day with the envis- the enthronement. The organisers The 600th anniversary of the last aged shooting of a documentary also intend to issue a book, with enthronement of Dukes of Carin- film entitled Ustoličevanje in iz- the same title as the documentary thia will be marked by a num- virna slovenska ljudovlada (The film, providing a compilation of ber of events. On the occasion Enthronement and the Original all principal historical sources on of the Days of Slovenian Culture, Slovenian Rule of Democracy). the enthronement and transla- the Lipa Maribor institution for Every day an outdoor theatre tions of the original texts into Slo- public presentation of Slovenian performance will be held, with vene. In honour of the 600th an- Culture will organise various a staging of the enthronement, niversary of the enthronement of events to be held from 20 to 29 which will be the common thread the Dukes of Carinthia, the Postal June 2014 on Dravsko polje (the running through performances Service of Slovenia will issue a The Duke’s Chair, or throne, is Drava field) between the towns marking the Days of Slovenian memorial stamp. In March 2014, a translation of the German of Maribor, Ptuj and Slovenska Culture. Furthermore, an exhibi- in Velenje, the Slovenian World Herzogstuhl. The throne played an Bistrica. The events will start with tion has been envisaged with the Congress will organise a lecture important part in the third part of the ceremony installing the Dukes the Midsummer’s Eve celebration announcement of the winners of on the enthronement by historian of Carinthia: sitting on the stone, the of the summer solstice at Vurberk an international painting com- Igor Grdina. new Duke bestowed fiefs to vassals. rchives of National Gallery of National rchives of Slovenia nton Kos/ A nton Photo: Gojmir A Photo:

Sinfo – Slovenian information 21 BUSINESS Valerija Obu

The Slovenian Innovation Forum Awards for the best innovators in Slovenia

There is no shortage of innovativeness in Slovenia: it is found predominantly in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, whose most innovative products and services are generally ecology-oriented.

In mid November, Ljubljana host- Novi materiali for their process that the same amount of fire- ed the eighth Slovenian Innova- of transparent glass staining with wood keeps you warm for lon- tion Forum. This is the central ecological pigments. Produc- ger. This, a unique product for Slovenian event in the field of in- tion of coloured transparent glass draught control in flue pipes, is novation and one which promotes poses a major challenge, as with an innovation of global impor- the best and most innovative ever more stringent chemical and tance. By installing Florian into products, services and business environmental legislation, there their wood-burning stoves, us- models. This time, it presented 47 are more and more substances ers will save in two ways. First, innovations, while the business- used in glass staining being de- they’ll increase the efficiency of innovation and international part clared unfit for use. In products the stove by 20% and second, of the forum were complemented that come into direct contact they’ll achieve considerable sav- by lectures and round-tables. with food, the challenge is even ings in fuel consumption. The en- greater. The third prize, for a suc- vironmental aspect is not negli- The best and most Among the presented innovations tion unit in the capsule of vacuum gible either, since the installation were 82 products, 39 services and cleaner, was awarded to the com- of Florian means reduced green- innovative product of 6 business models. The major- panies Dormel and Nela. Aiming house gas emissions. this year’s Innovation ity of entries were received from to create appliances that are as Forum was deemed micro, small and medium-sized quiet as possible, manufacturers In recent years, heating is under- companies (80) and individual of vacuum cleaners practically to be Florian, a smart going change, with a general shift innovators and innovator groups choke the suction unit with fil- towards the use of renewable device that ensures (34). Key criteria for the selection ters and liners. The designers here energy sources, mostly pellets, that the same amount of the best innovations were: us- presented an innovative solution wood chips and firewood. This, ability, innovativeness, potential to this problem by arranging the among other things, is attribut- of firewood keeps you impact and importance (rele- way that the air flows through a able to the development of elec- warm for longer. This, vance), practical feasibility, mar- capsule around the suction unit, tronic controllers that facilitate keting attractiveness, social and thus effectively reducing noise. a unique product for achieving high efficiency and economic effects, and adequacy draught control in flue ecologically adequate emissions. of approach. Florian pipes, is an innovation of Based on their own research of the market and the perceived The winner of this year’s forum The best and most innovative global importance. needs, the Slovenian company was the ATech elektronika com- product of this year’s Innovation ATech elektronika concluded pany for its Florian appliance. The Forum was deemed to be Flo- that there was plenty of room for second prize went to the RC eNeM rian, a smart device that ensures innovation, particularly in wood-

A burning stoves, which so far have lacked an automatic control.

Born from the twin aims of cost-efficiency and environ- mental protection, Florian is a

Photo: Tamino Petelinšek/ST Tamino Photo: superior product and innova- tion that will change the habits of users. It is intended for end- customers, since its installation is simple and independent of the type of stove. A key advan- tage is in that it can be mounted “The award for the best innovation on an existing wood-burning at this year’s Slovenian Innovation stove. In the European Union Forum is a confirmation for us that alone there are over 30 million we are on the right track and an wood-burning units whose ef- encouragement for the future. There’s no doubt that you’re going ficiency could be improved by to hear a lot more about Florian and Florian, thus bringing cost sav- its benefits.” Matija Geržina, Head of ings to their users. Sales at ATech elektronika

22 Government Communication Office Vesna Žarkovič BUSINESS INTERVIEW

CEO and owner of the ROTO group of companies Štefan Pavlinjek Growing the company’s own knowledge and development

ROTO, a Slovenian manufacturing company from Murska Sobota, last year generated EUR 30 million in turnover, of which some two million remained as profit. This year, their sales have increased by two to three percent, while next year the company aims for ten percent growth. The Slovenian market accounts for 12 percent of the company’s product sales with 190 employees – in total, the company employs 260 people. This year, they have made substantial investments in working capital; as a result of these strengthening measures, their aim for next year is to achieve significant growth. A

The Managing Director D aniel Novaković/ST Photo: of ROTO GROUP d.o.o., Štefan Pavlinjek, was born in 1950 in Murska Sobota. In 1974 he opened the Kovinoplastika Pavlinjek workshop, where he manufactured plastic advertising boards and polyester products for agriculture. When the demand became too great for one person to meet, Mr Pavlinjek employed others and started using rotomoulding technology. Since then – which was sometime around 1985 – the company has used this technology to manufacture plastic products. Mr Pavlinjek is a successful entrepreneur, active in many institutions related to the economy. He is the main driving force behind tool, product and technology development in the company. He oversees the performance and introduction of new technological equipment and integrates it into the entire operations of the company. He and his wife, Irena Pavlinjek, are the joint owners of ROTO G R O U P.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 23 BUSINESS INTERVIEW Photo: Tamino Petelinšek/ST A

Mr Pavlinjek is a successful entrepreneur, active in many institutions related to the economy. At one time he was the President of the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia, while currently he is the President of the Supervisory Board of the Regional Development Agency Mura and a member of and the Slovenian representative in the Association of Rotational Moulders (ARM); he is also an organiser of partnering events and a sommelier.

What is the secret to your suc- them manufacturing compa- designed to target the luxury cess? nies. You have increased the market. Then we again turned Our own strong development number of employees, taken to the development of our own and knowledge. In the global over competitors, most re- products, to independent per- market, our products are sold cently the Italian firm Zero At- formance on the market, and al- under our own brand, and I tivo, now renamed Roto Attivo. ready this year our efforts have truly believe that Slovenia must A Slovenian company taking resulted in gaining a strong posi- look for niche products and offer over a foreign one. This is com- tion despite the domestic crisis. them to the world. Our advan- mendable. Remember that we also manu- tage lies in small-size enterpris- Slovenia has got many good facture various parts for com- es that can manage innovative companies and much potential. bine harvesters, tractors and products and global marketing. snow groomers and fuel tanks I learnt this from our neighbours You remain optimistic in these for motorbikes, and in these ar- – from the Austrians. I bought a difficult times? eas there has been no slowdown competitor from them and learnt I certainly am. Companies that in the Western market; on the to sell around the world. Our are privatised work very well contrary, their sales have sta- company also markets products and are strong in global terms. bilised and even begun to grow. that go along with contemporary This is another reason why we ecological trends. We started to How did you take over Zero At- feel we are making progress. It develop our products 20 years tivo, which was a manufacturer is true, though, that there is no ago in cooperation with Austrian of boats, kayaks and canoes? more 20 to 30 percent growth, partners, at a time when Slo- We had had our eyes on the as we had previously. We have venia was not so familiar with company for two years, trying also renovated three factories Our own strong treatment plants. Well, over time to take it over. When you have in the south. If the possibili- development and we have outpaced them and greater potential, more knowl- ties for expansion are provided reached the level of our systems edge, more markets, it some- in Slovenia, more demanding knowledge. In the global being better and accompanied times happens that a company, products will be manufactured market, our products with European certificates. We rather than going down, is of- here; if not, we will be forced to are sold under our have also equipped our new lo- fered to you. With this particu- transfer more work to our other own brand, and I truly gistics centre this year, worth lar takeover, we have upgraded factories. half a million euros; thus we and expanded our offer of boats, believe that Slovenia have strengthened the part of kayaks and canoes, aiming to In which other countries are must look for niche production where we manufac- win a European market and your manufacturing facilities products and offer ture our products, since in this, to become the second largest located? as I’ve said, we see our future. If manufacturer operating under We have strong production in them to the world. Our you have your own product, you this programme for some time Croatia, where we manufacture advantage lies in small- perform autonomously on the into the future. boats, shafts and waste treat- size enterprises that market and, for sure, you can sell ment plants for the Croatian can manage innovative high enough to meet the plans. But how did you manage to by- market and partly also for the pass the crisis? western market. Until recently products and global You manufacture plastic prod- In 2008, we did feel the crisis, we exported via Slovenia, but marketing. ucts in 12 companies, four of since we had products that were now, Croatia being an EU mem-

24 Government Communication Office BUSINESS INTERVIEW A D aniel Novaković/ST Photo:

In 1996 he received the award of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia for exemplary business and entrepreneurial achievements, and in 1998 the Chamber of Craft and Small business of Slovenia awarded him its Silver Plaque and the title of Best Manager in South-Eastern Europe.

ber, we export directly from cannot be manufactured in Slo- privatised those companies that there to Switzerland and other venia because of the price. Con- should be privatised. But the Of course, we would countries. Another company is sequently, we manufacture them ones we have are well estab- like to manufacture located in Serbia, manufactur- in Macedonia and import them lished in the European market. in Slovenia and have ing products for agricultural and sell them in Slovenia. Slovenia will have to reduce machinery. We also have a new costs in the public sector and Slovenian production; factory in Vinica in Macedonia, Your sales have reached mar- back up the economy to kick- we have kept a part where we manufacture flow- kets worldwide, from America start growth. Only ten percent of the brand that is er pots and export them from to North Africa to India, and you of Slovenians bring added value, Macedonia to Bulgaria, Turkey, are trying to penetrate Russia and I do not see a country where known worldwide but Israel, Albania and Kosovo. This and Azerbaijan. ten percent would do to satisfy we have also taken over programme covers the sur- We are indeed trying to break all needs in the country. My sug- the customers of this rounding countries. On the other into the Russian market, which gestion to the current govern- company and therefore hand, our company in Italy will means working with project de- ment is to make cuts in the costs be gradually transferred to Slo- sign engineers. We participate in of administration. We need to expect that with their venia, since work in Italy is not tenders and provide services to stay within realistic frameworks; recreational boats we economical. Of course, we would their contractors and construc- new loans do not lead anywhere, will penetrate and gain like to manufacture in Slovenia tion companies. In Azerbaijan nor would they be fair to future a proper position on the and have Slovenian produc- there is currently a very large generations. We need to clarify tion; we have kept a part of the amount of construction, and, today how much money and global market. brand that is known worldwide since the money comes from what kind of financial injection but we have also taken over the oil, they are not affected by the we can afford to give an econ- customers of this company and crisis. We are therefore tying omy that has gone to the dogs. therefore expect that with their to penetrate their market as a As the CEO of the Roto group, I The best-selling products under the recreational boats we will pen- group of Slovenian companies – would like to see that Slovenia WATER programme are our ECO BOX etrate and gain a proper position from those manufacturing win- has a reputation, is stable and wastewater treatment plant, which is designed to treat wastewater from on the global market. dows and wood products to us has a regulated banking system. households of four to six people, who manufacture waste treat- Because when abroad, it is of and our rainwater tank, which And what are the differences in ment plants. The equipment has vital importance that you come holds 12,000 litres and is installed labour costs? already been purchased in Baku. from a country where internal underground. The difference in manufacturing And yes, we have also been affairs are in order. price between Croatia and Slo- making some sales in India and venia is about 15 percent. In Ser- have started selling waste treat- bia, manufacturing costs are 20 ment plans in America. percent lower and in Macedonia they are as much as 40 percent How do you view the current lower than in Slovenia. This is situation, the sales of assets? the reason why we were able to What are the solutions in your penetrate markets through the opinion? Macedonian company, because I am most concerned with the these markets do not respond to sales of assets that we have ac- higher prices, and this was our cumulated because of being goal. Certain products simply good managers. We have not

Sinfo – Slovenian information 25 gastronomy Tanja Glogovčan

The Joys of Prekmurje in Tešanovci Country Chocolaterie Passero

The Lipič-Passero Estate in the village of Tešanovci in the foothills of Goričko is an excellent starting point for exploring the wealth of Prekmurje. The Estate’s winning cards are tradition, high-quality home-made food and sincere homeliness. Photo: A rchives of Passero

The Lipič-Passero-Sotošek family from Tešanovci can without any special immodesty sign their names under the presentation of their joint offer of the Joys of Prekmurje, in which they claim that while their estate is old, they are young. And furthermore, “From generation to generation, we have passed on diligence, hospitality and values. We take what we have acquired with love and care. We change to preserve, and like to pass it on. We know that it is good to share good things.”

Guests and casual visitors to the A winery, a small farmer’s shop, Chocolate pralines kindled Passero Estate will be treated to a a farmhouse inn, and a country love Their love story actually diverse culinary offer. Those with chocolaterie that opened this year began with chocolate. particularly sensitive taste buds are all part of the farm, which The Country Chocolaterie Passero When Tomaž was still can enjoy Prekmurje ham, meat, has left a significant imprint on is part of their offer. The story of supplementary agricultural ac- courting Jasmina, he pâtés, sausages, and spreads with the chocolaterie is being written unique flavours, pumpkin seed tivities not only in Prekmurje, by two young people, Tomaž and gave her chocolate oil, home-made bread, juices, but throughout Slovenia. Their Jasmina, who met while study- pralines for Christmas spirits and awarded wines that products are marketed under the ing at the Biotechnical Faculty in Passero trademark. The Italian which he had made can be collected from the shelves Ljubljana, where they both grad- of the small Farmers Shop Pas- surname Passero means sparrow uated in food technology. Their and serves as the logo for their especially for her. The sero. love story actually began with trademark. thoughtful and heartfelt chocolate. When Tomaž was still gift not only ignited her courting Jasmina, he gave her passion for him, but chocolate pralines for Christmas which he had made especially for also the passion to make

rchives of Passero rchives her. The thoughtful and heartfelt chocolate. gift not only ignited her passion

Photo: A Photo: for him, but also the passion to make chocolate. Imagination and playfulness came to the fore and interesting chocolate ideas were born. The first was a chocolate wedding, then the joint business venture and a country chocolat- erie and, along the way, a decision Tomaž Sotošek and Jasmina Passero to tell chocolate stories was made. Sotošek Each new story becomes eternal.

26 Government Communication Office gastronomy rchives of Passero rchives Photo: A Photo:

Tomaž and Jasmina told us that the chocolate pears with stalks were inspired by the importance of dried pears when sugar was unknown in these parts: “The pears are put into the box in the form of an alley, in memory of the pear-lined alleys which used to form our cultural landscape. These are beautiful and inspiring stories and we tell them in a way that also makes them delicious.”

A chocolate story about ible. And when I wonder how shopping centre where, too often Prekmurje they make the filling so thick, unfortunately, Slovenians buy they only smile mysteriously. That vegetables from foreign produc- Tomaž and Jasmina get the fla- is their secret. ers. Here in Prekmurje, people vours for their masterpieces from are aware that Slovenian farmers Prekmurje, since it is the region Nevertheless, the Chocolate Joys have to be supported. they know best. Who could resist of Prekmurje, fruits of the imagi- the rich flavour of home-made nation of both young people, are When I asked them if they missed pumpkin seed oil? Pumpkins flavoured not only with pump- the hustle and bustle of Ljubljana, are an important product of the kin, but also jurka grapes, pears, since they are young, and Prek- region. Housewives prepare vari- elderflower and Traminer wine. murje is on the margins of Slove- ous pumpkin soups, sauces and They are particularly proud of nia, they looked at each other and Tomaž and Jasmina get spreads, roast pumpkin, pump- their chocolate pears with stalks. said, “Well, it is true that we have kin pies, rolls, cakes and dump- Well, they really do melt in the to take the car everywhere we the flavours for their lings. On the other hand, Jasmina mouth. It is not only the choco- go, but we are never bored any- masterpieces from and Tomaž make chocolates with late that is delicious; the pear way. If we are not making choco- Prekmurje, since it is the pumpkin filling. Pralines with is perfectly dried and still soft. late goodies, we help with other pumpkin filling are really incred- These dried pears are not from a chores on the farm.” region they know best. Photo: D arinkaPhoto: Mladenovič

All their products include their logo, a sparrow, which is the meaning of their surname Passero in Italian. If you take a closer look, you will see that the sparrow’s wing is in the shape of a linden leaf, which symbolises Slovenia.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 27 heritage Polona Prešeren, Photo: Tomo Jeseničnik/Rokus Klett

The taste of tradition Slovenian potica

My first and earliest memory of holidays is as- always been a synonym for festive events, and sociated with potica. As a child, I watched my this certainly still holds true today. Generations mother carefully knead the dough, make the of Slovenians have grown up experiencing the filling, and peacefully wait for the cake to rise, exciting festive expectation of potica, which and I patiently waited until it was baked. Poti- is undoubtedly Slovenia’s most festive dish. ca has always been some kind of a prize. It has

There is something festively nat- made in Slovenia’s various gas- ural and traditional enshrined in tronomic regions and the signifi- the conscience of the Slovenian cance of potica in everyday life, people. Now a new monograph since its earliest mention in the Potice iz Slovenije (Poticas of works of Slovenian writers of the Slovenia) has been published on 18th century. this sweet (or salty) specialty, as the only in-depth monograph The book also offers practical -ad on this subject to date. Its author, vice and recipes for making both the distinguished Slovenian eth- sweet and salty potica varieties. nologist Janez Bogataj, Ph. D, has Cake baking has always present- spent many years studying potica ed a challenge for housewives, varieties. Potica is the second Slo- as traditional recipes did not venian national dish to have been specify exact quantities, but only studied so extensively, following ingredients. Housewives were the publication of the monograph forced to use their own creativity, Mojstrovine s kranjsko klobaso which resulted in a wide variety (Mastering the Art of Preparing of culinary delights in all areas of Carniolan Sausage-Based Dishes) Slovenia. Potica baking is asso- two years ago. Both monograph ciated with a series of minor yet were published by Rokus Klett. very important details, including the obligatory preparation of the The book Potice iz Slovenije pro- dish in a specially designed bak- vides information on everything ing mould. Or, using the words of one wants to know about potica: Valentin Vodnik, the author of the from interesting facts about its first cook book in the Slovenian origin and evolution, different language, “experience is the best potica varieties by gastronom- teacher”. ic regions, details about potica

Potica dough can also be made with buckwheat, corn, rye or wholemeal flour. The most frequent- ly used is buckwheat flour, whereas corn flour is used primarily to make the dough for špehovka or ocvirkovka (the bacon or crackling variety).

Potica is baked in clay or metal baking moulds. They are round with a cylindrical protrusion in the middle.

28 Government Communication Office heritage

Professor Janez Bogataj, Ph. D, the I see less difficulty in protecting author and conceptual designer potica than other food products. of this monograph, and the dis- tinguished photographer Edi Berk Since cakes similar to poti- have created a truly exceptional ca can also be found in some presentation of potica in Slovenia. neighbouring countries, could Janez Bogataj spent years study- you please explain what makes ing comprehensive archival ma- the Slovenian variety so spe- terials and combined them with cial? other pictorial sources to create One should take into account a book that will be read with in- that we once lived in the same terest by many amateur bakers of country with neighbouring potica, either sweet or salty, and peoples. There is a thin line be- by all connoisseurs and amateurs tween what customs we took of Slovenian culinary heritage. from them and vice versa. It is more important that the cui- To mark the book’s publication, sine of Danube basin area saw we conducted an interview with the development of a certain its author, the distinguished Slo- type of flat cakes that eventually venian ethnologist Janez Bogataj. evolved into regional variants. This was the case with potica. What is the status of potica to- The region with the highest con- day? Does it have the EU pro- centration of a particular food tected food product status like variety is also important, and several other typical Slovenian in the case of potica, this is un- culinary products? doubtedly Slovenia. No one has yet embarked on a Professor Janez Bogataj, Ph.D. project to protect the geographi- hole in the middle. This is still cal origins of potica, which I The book also gives an account potica. The basic recipe for the think is a great pity. The situa- of some very atypical potica dough is clear, while the fill- tion is perfectly clear, and the varieties, such as the vegan ing can be either sweet or salty. structure of this book also an- and the uncooked vegetarian Anything that does not fit this swers how and why it is impor- potica. Does this mean that tra- pattern is not potica. Even a cake tant to gain protected status for dition is giving way to modern baked according to this recipe potica. The subject of protection trends? in a flat baking tray cannot be should be potica’s basic recipe, I do not think so; it is merely an called potica, but is referred to with a selection of 40 typical expansion of the range of potica as baked štrukelj (rolled dump- and primary fillings, subdivided varieties. Man’s knowledge of ling). It is true, however, that it into sweet and salty varieties. healthy food has changed and it is also referred to as potica in This is the whole, but quite sim- is quite normal that his diet has various regional dialects. A gen- ple story. Essential for obtain- been adapted to new findings. eral feature of Slovenian cuisine ing protected status are histori- However, we should be careful is that there are different names cal sources, which we certainly here. We need to ask ourselves for the same dishes and differ- have. Potica was first mentioned whether some innovations of ent dishes with the same name. by Primož Trubar, and a recipe the original potica, can still be for its preparation can also be called potica. It should not be The baking of potica has always No one has yet embarked found in the works of Valva- the subject of some vague inno- required specific skills, and to- on a project to protect sor. We already have experience vation without limits, as potica day housewives seem to avoid the geographical origins also has its own identity. Potica learning them. Do you agree? in seeking protected status for of potica, which I think food products on the basis of is genuine only in so far as it can Making a good dough, not the historical sources: in the case of be referred to as a roll of dough filling, has always been the most is a great pity. The situ- Carniolan mead our application baked in a round, grooved or important and the most difficult ation is perfectly clear, was based on Valvasor’s records. smooth baking mould, with a part of the process. The thick- and the structure of this book also answers how Potica through the year and why it is important In his book on potica, Janez Bogataj also provides a table containing twelve different to gain protected status potica varieties for each month of the year. In the past, people ate seasonal and locally produced food grown in their own gardens. for potica. The subject of protection should be Here are twelve potica varieties for the twelve months of the year: January: carob potica / February: potica with cracklings or bacon / March: potica potica’s basic recipe, with with honey / April: potica with tarragon / May: želševka or potica with chives / June: a selection of 40 typi- potica with cottage cheese / July: potica with poppy seeds / August: potica with carrots cal and primary fillings, / September: potica with raisins / October: potica with dried plums or dried fruit / subdivided into sweet November: potica with Carniolan sausage / December: walnut potica and salty varieties.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 29 heritage

Walnut potica Poppy seed potica

ness and the quantity of the same dough recipe and has the cuisine is so varied: Slovenian filling should always be taken same flavour; only the prepara- cook books never offered final into account when making the tion technique is different. recipes, but always left room for dough. But, I should stress that In my opinion, more apparent creativity by indicating, for the it is the dough that is essential. than the knowledge of how to most part, only ingredients and However, there has been an ad- bake potica is some kind of fear not quantities. vance in technology in this area, of its complex preparation. The as well, and there are now two way recipes are written has also One should also mention here basic methods used to bake pot- contributed to dispelling such the socio-economic aspect. ica: warm and cold. In the warm fears. Modern recipes are very That’s true. The nutrition of fam- method, the dough is left to rise detailed, which is good. But, ilies varied depending on their in a warm environment and is as a result, much of the charm financial standing. Thus we find then rolled out, spread with the of creativity has been lost. The differences between potica va- filling, left to rise again and -fi first cook book in the Slovenian rieties. Potica has always been a Potica dough can also be nally baked. The use of the cold language by Valentin Vodnik festive cake that is not eaten ev- made with buckwheat, method means that all ingredi- (1799) only specified the ingre- ery day. Our ancestors wanted to corn, rye or wholemeal ents are prepared cold. Yeast is dients and rarely the quantities. celebrate festive occasions with added to the dough without al- Nowadays, all recipes include an abundance of food, but in flour. The most frequent- lowing it to rise. It is then rolled detailed ingredient information line with their financial circum- ly used is buckwheat out, spread with the filling, with precisely measured quan- stances. In wealthier families, flour, whereas corn flour rolled up and left to rise slowly tities. Older cook books left such potica was filled with walnuts, is used primarily to make in the refrigerator overnight and things open, meaning that cooks cream and a variety of other not baked until the following were more creative. They were ingredients. At any rate, people the dough for špehovka day. Advances in cooking tech- compelled to gain some experi- tried to create or imitate the at- or ocvirkovka (the bacon nology have also been made in ence themselves and use their mosphere of festive abundance. or crackling variety). potica baking. However, potica own creativity. These are also the In these circumstances, pisani continues to be based on the reasons why Slovenian regional kruh, marbled mixed-grain

Crackling potica Sausage (kranjska klobasa) potica

30 Government Communication Office heritage

Honey potica Buckwheat potica with raisins bread, which is typical of poorer ists visiting our country. We take potica is somehow pushed into areas (Dolenjsko), was invented it so much for granted that we the background in the shops, when trying to imitate the vari- are unable to comprehend the and that supermarket shelves ous fillings by mixing different constants of our visibility and stacked with potica sometimes types of flour. Or, what is partic- recognise the tangible compo- have a gritty appearance. It is ularly interesting today, is potica nents of our identity. And potica therefore no wonder in this with dried fruit, such as dried certainly is one such compo- world of consumerism that we plums. There are also potica va- nent. That is also why I decided prefer buying products that are rieties with herb filling, such as to write this book, because I not typical of our local environ- chives, lovage, etc. They used to feel we lack education in self- ment. We should ask ourselves be typical of the poor, but today awareness. I firmly believe that whether we want to give pre- are served at the most distin- potica is one important compo- cedence to foreign brands or do guished social events, as they nent of self-awareness. something to preserve and en- are in line with modern trends hance our own traditions. I have Potica with tarragon in nutrition. And what about consumerism? also noticed that potica has not tops Slovenia’s gastro- Does tradition give way to con- been advertised at all so far dur- nomic pyramid as the So, potica is an important part sumerism in Slovenia, as well? ing this holiday season. Do we of the Slovenian national heri- Potica can be found in any shop- really have no idea about tradi- most distinctly Slovenian tage and identity. It has actually ping centre, but it is the way it is tional giving and how to cele- specialty. Slovenia is become a symbol of Slovenia. served that is important. Con- brate in a different, specific way one of the few culinary Precisely so. I find it unfortunate sumerism is a very aggressive of our own? We could do more environments in Europe that Slovenians are not suffi- phenomenon. It is a pity that to promote potica. And it doesn’t ciently aware of its importance. we do not follow the example require much work. Small steps and worldwide where A genuinely euphoric attitude of some other region or country can lead to big changes. And, re- tarragon is used in sweet towards potica is most frequent- and its method of marketing lo- maining faithful to our tradition pastry dishes. ly encountered outside of Slove- cal and regional traditional spe- will improve our international nia’s borders or in foreign tour- cialties. I find it regrettable that visibility.

Almond potica Terragon potica

Sinfo – Slovenian information 31 heritage Tanja Glogovčan

Miklošovo senje A story of Prekmurje craftsmen

Fairs are the oldest form of occasional mass trading records of fairs in Prekmurje date to 1366, when where displayed goods are sold and purchased, Lendava was granted the right to hold fairs, and appearing in Europe in the 10th century. The oldest from 1479, when a fair was held in Murska Sobota. arinka Mladenovič Photo: D arinka

Fairs are important for producers. In the past, local craftsmen would make up a large part of the fair. Numerous potters, sometimes even up to thirty, would gather at each one; only a handful of potters came this year. Potters used to persuade people to buy their products by knocking on their dishes to convince them that they were well fired and did not break easily.

Until 1932, Murska Sobota had Legendary Prekmurje shoe- He said that after leaving high seven small retail and livestock maker school, he had almost become a fairs; three were organised at Protestant priest, in accordance random dates and four on fixed The oldest craftsman selling his with his father’s wishes, but did dates. Fašinsko senje was held wares at the fair for sixty years is not like the profession. He also one week before Shrovetide (usu- a shoemaker from Rogašovci in wears only his own home-made ally in February), Čarno senje two Goričko who still makes all his shoes. “They are the warmest weeks before Easter (March), Jur- shoes in the traditional way. He and softest, and custom-made,” jevo senje four weeks after Easter said that the fair used to be small- he says. He sells many shoes to (May), Ivansko senje on 24 June, er, and that shoes, farm tools, various folklore groups. He also Bertalansko senje on 24 August, pottery and clothes sold best. The mentioned that in addition to Slo- Miklošovo senje, a tra- Trezino senje on 15 October and products were displayed on the venians, he has clients in Croatia, ground, as there were no stalls. Hungary and Austria. His son, a ditional small retail and Miklošovo senje on 6 December. Only the latter two have survived. The sale of sheepskin, cow pelts graduate in economics, lost his handicrafts fair in the We attended one that was visited and leather was customary at job recently and is now helping centre of Murska Sobota by none other than ‘St Nicholas’ this fair, and also of gingerbread out in the workshop. himself. products. The old shoemaker told saw several thousand us an anecdote about a woman Honey cakes and gingerbread visitors in the morning On Friday, 6 December, Miklošovo who is now a regular client. Sup- alone. Various crafts- senje (St Nicholas Fair), a tradi- posedly, she stole the first pair of Jožica Celec, a producer of honey men were selling their tional small retail and handicrafts shoes that she got from him and and gingerbread, has been con- fair in the centre of Murska So- they argued. But after she had tinuing this noble tradition for products; the sellers and tried on his shoes, which were bota saw several thousand visi- over two decades and is discov- made from cow leather, she re- ering new and modern creative buyers were swarming tors in the morning alone. Vari- turned to apologise and pay for possibilities and challenges in the around and the abun- ous craftsmen were selling their them, and has been buying his rich heritage of honey production. products; the sellers and buy- dance of goods on sale shoes ever since, either at the fair Her work is connected not only ers were swarming around and or at his workshop. When I asked with Prekmurje and North-east- seemed endless. The fair the abundance of goods on sale him if he had always wanted to be ern Slovenia; she also participates was also attended by seemed endless. The fair was also a shoemaker, he began to laugh. at various events and exhibitions Roma people. attended by Roma people.

32 Government Communication Office heritage Photo: D arinkaPhoto: Mladenovič

St Nicholas Fair is an opportunity for visitors to buy new decorations for their Christmas trees and nativity scenes, which have a place in every Slovenian home.

in Slovenia and abroad. The fair vellously in spite of the reces- the floor. We also have fur caps featured gingerbread makers who sion,” she said. I asked her if the and sheepskin headbands. Buy, sold gingerbread with dark and inscriptions on the gingerbread buy!” This is how a tanner from white chocolate, honey cakes hearts for Christmas tree deco- Prekmurje addressed passers-by. with pumpkin seed and unusu- ration were in Slovenian. Some- I asked him if he’d had any buy- al flavours like chilli or pepper, what embarrassed, she told me ers. “Not many. It was better a few honey cakes in the shape of men that she had been unable to do years ago. The economic crisis The mulled wine was or women, and gluten-free honey that this year, but certainly would has left its mark, you see,” he ex- irressistible;: it tasted of cakes with cinnamon, cloves or next year. “My granddaughter is plained. I complimented him on ginger. Most honey cakes are red learning Slovenian in school. She his products and was tempted to cinnamon and was very and heart-shaped and decorated says she is going to marry a Slo- buy one of his lovely fur caps, but sweet. It was nise to get with love poetry and greetings, or venian boy,” she laughed heart- decided to do that next time. warm when the cold had in the shape of St Nicholas and his ily. Well, who knows? The paths already reached my feet. companions, the Krampuses, and of love are mysterious. But she The crowds gathered around stalls gingerbread dolls. will certainly be able to make the selling mulled wine and sausages most beautiful gingerbread heart with horse radish. Everyone said In addition to the Celec family, for her chosen one with her Za- that the sausages were excellent gingerbread makers from Croa- gorje grandmother’s recipe. and that wholemeal bread and tia also came to the fair. “We are horse radish make a perfect com- in the EU now, and it is not diffi- To keep warm in winter bination. The mulled wine was cult to come.” I spoke to a woman irresistible; it tasted of cinnamon from Croatian Zagorje in Slove- “Buy a sheepskin to keep you and was very sweet. It was nice to nian; only every third or fourth warm in winter. You can choose get warm when the cold had al- word was in her language. The between snow white or light ready reached my feet. Shoemakers in the past were selling Zagorje dialect is very similar to honey white colour. Only 20 eu- their products always on the floor. Slovenian. She told me that it was ros. You will not find a better Clay wine cups are made in Prek- In the left photo: winter 1950 In the right photo: the oldest her first time at the fair, but not bargain anywhere else. Sheep- murje. We could say that Prek- shoemaker from Rogaševci in Goričko the last. “Things are selling mar- skins! And brown cow hides for murje is the home of pottery in region. Photo: G CO Photo: Jože Kološa - Kološ/Pomurski muzej Kološa - Kološ/Pomurski Jože Photo:

Sinfo – Slovenian information 33 heritage arinka Mladenovič Photo: D arinka

St Nicholas and childreen at Mikloševo senje in Murska Sobota.

Slovenia. In certain regions, soil Embroidery and metal Arrival of St Nicholas mixed with clay was the source Several Hungarian traders came of the basic raw material. Pot- to the fair, not only to sell pottery Suddenly, the crowd swelled even tery guilds were organised in products, but also embroidery. A more, and we were barely mov- many Prekmurje villages and woman from Hungary does not ing. I can see them. Little white several tens of potters sometimes speak Slovenian or English, but angels and big black frighten- worked in a single village. The she has been selling her embroi- ing Krampuses. Their procession villages particularly known for dery at the fair for many years. seems endless. People make way their many potters were Filov- This is St Nicholas Fair, so handi- for them; children tremble at the Suddenly, the crowd ci, Kobilje, Bogojina, Tešanovci, crafts people must be there. Peo- sight of the men in black and hide swelled even more, and Lončarovci, Sebeborci and some ple in this region still appreciate behind their mothers. And then others. Prekmurje is known for comes St Nicholas. The good man. we were barely mov- traditional handicrafts. “A horse- black ceramics, which are not shoe is a must have. It’s for good “Have you been good, children?” ing. I can see them. Little glazed and usually not decorated. luck. For health and fertility,” the he asks them. At first, there is si- white angels and big Useful dishes and containers were blacksmith called to his potential lence, and then bashful voices re- made, such as plates, pitchers, ply, “Yes.” St Nicholas smiles and black frightening Kram- customers. “I’ve been a black- baking dishes, and jugs known smith for as long as I can remem- says, “That’s good. That’s why I puses. Their procession as pütre. The craft of pottery can ber. It’s nice to come to Mikloševo came to the senje in Murska So- seems endless. People nowadays be seen only in the senje where you show your prod- bota this year, because I know make way for them; chil- Pottery Village of Filovci and in ucts; many people buy a copper that good people live here.” Pečarovci in Goričko. As a point of candlestick as a New Year’s gift. dren tremble at the sight interest, several tens of working Source: The historical background Blacksmiths are known to bring on fairs in Prekmurje was sum- of the men in black and pottery workshops remain in the good luck. And you get to meet village of Magyarszombatfa, only marised from a paper by Mateja hide behind their moth- acquaintances you haven’t seen Huber from a symposium in Petan- a stone’s throw from the Hungar- ers. And then comes St for a year,” he says, explaining his jci, entitled “Fairs in Prekmurje in ian border. annual visits to the fair. the First Half of the 20th Century”. Nicholas. arinka Mladenovič Photo: D arinka

Fairs were always social events. Many folk musicians, also young ones, performed at this year’s fair. An accordion is always found at festive occasions in Slovenia.

34 Government Communication Office Vesna Žarkovič, Photo: Personal archives heritage

Christmas and New Year poll on attitudes towards tradition We asked Slovenians abroad

It is important to maintain tradition, and many Slovenians who do not live in the homeland still nurture these Slovenian customs. But of course they have also adopted foreign habits from the environments in which they live. So how do you Slovenians who live abroad spend the upcoming holidays? How did you get used to living in communities in which you have lived all your lives or to which you have just moved? How do “Slovenian holidays” differ from those in Australia, America or the Czech Republic? We asked and here are the answers.

Christmas in Australia - we shared during the years; we are became each others’ families happy to speak Slovenian. At the and nations beginning, we joined friends for Christmas Day itself, but as our Looking back on my family’s families grew Christmas Day fifty years in Australia, I see that became a family celebration. On the highlights of our lives were Boxing Day, we all usually went always the Christmas holidays. fishing together. My husband Joe We live in an English-speak- was the main fisherman, so he ing multicultural country with invited friends to enjoy a camp- many diverse traditions, so we ing experience with us for a few rejoiced all the more over the days along the Tumut River. I yearly gatherings of Slovenian cooked trout straight from the families for Christmas. Every cool clear river on an open BBQ year, my family invited friends while other women prepared a day to go to a hairdresser and to celebrate Christmas Eve with delicacies of their kitchens; buy new outfits for the New a BBQ under our linden tree in the delicious food was washed Year’s Eve dance. Nobody else Canberra. The celebration usual- down with delicious wines and took much notice of us, so we ly ended with us going to a mid- beer. There was usually story tried to shine for each other. night mass. At the beginning, telling ending with singing and These gatherings and celebra- there were only Slovenians, but even dancing late into the night. tions helped us, especially dur- gradually our children brought We made trips into other Snowy ing the early years, to overcome their friends, wives, husbands Mountain resorts, but Tumut re- homesickness and loneliness – and children. While the young mained our base. we became each others’ families ones chat mostly in English, we and nations. older ones remember our home, We returned to Canberra on the our youth and the things we 30th of December. We needed Cilka Zagar, teacher

Christmas in SHORT SLEEVES Sierras range, where ski slopes ball, our beloved sport, and give are good. Our family spends a money to those without much These gatherings and As a Slovenian American living lot on Christmas because every- luck in life. celebrations helped us, in northern California, a land of body expects presents. We put good wine – writer Jack Lon- up a Christmas tree in our liv- Jože Udovč, entrepreneur especially during the don called it “Moon Valley” – 40 ing room and place beautifully early years, to over- miles north of San Francisco, I wrapped presents under it to be come homesickness and certainly live a life more fulfill- opened on Christmas morning. loneliness – we became ing than the residents of other We Christians go to Midnight states of America. That is be- Mass and celebrate Jesus, while each others’ families and cause I know that the Christmas other religious groups such as nations. holidays will find me wander- Muslims, Buddhists and Jews, ing around in short sleeves. who make up almost half the The roads may be wet, but they population here, do celebrate will never be icy. December is Christmas, but more for com- a month of many parties with mercial rather than religious friends, both from private and reasons. Christmas Day brings business circles. Banks, shops, together families who socialise companies… everybody wants to over full tables. Christmas is thank you for being their client indeed not a time of thrift. On before the end of the year. Ski- Christmas Day we go into the ers spend their holidays in the yard to play American Foot-

Sinfo – Slovenian information 35 heritage

A place where Father Christ- sion, and it has been lifting peo- venian community in Adelaide, mas wears short pants ple’s spirits ever since. Over the which was first populated with past 80 years, the Adelaide Christ- Slovenians in large numbers af- Christmas in Adelaide is much mas Pageant has grown to be the ter World War Two, Christmas is more than just celebrating on the largest parade of its type in the celebrated with Miklavzevanje day of December 25. The Christ- world with about 400,000 people at Slovenian Club Adelaide and mas season here begins on the lining the city streets, watching a the Slovenian Catholic Church. second Saturday of November wonderland unfold before their In addition, in December, Slo- when the annual Adelaide Christ- very eyes along the 3.3 kilometre venian Club Adelaide hosts a mas Pageant weaves its magic route. Once the Adelaide Pageant Christmas dinner with Slovenian through the main streets of the has happened, the Christmas Christmas carols sung by Slove- city. The pageant was first held season gets into full swing with nian Choir Adelaide and the Slo- in 1933 as a means to lift people’s local suburbs holding their own venian Church has a Christmas spirits during the Great Depres- Christmas parades, people put- church service and carols sung by ting up Christmas decorations the Slovenia church choir. As we and lighting the outside of their live in the Southern hemisphere, houses; the best example of the our Christmas is experienced in latter is the Christmas Lights of summer with temperatures that Lobethal, just over 40 kilometres can approach 40 degrees Celsius. east of Adelaide city. The Christ- Yes, our Father Christmas can be mas display at the South Austra- dressed in short, and instead of lian Brewing company along the arriving on a sleigh he can come surfing the waves on a surfboard! River Torrens, Christmas carol concerts in parks, Christmas par- Adrian Vatovec, (born in Australia ties and, of course, retailers are in but “made in Slovenia”), music full Christmas mode. In the Slo- producer

Christmas in the Czech Re- organised by the aristocratic piglet in the evening.) No tra- Especially at Christmas and public with Slovenian Food family of Lobkowicz. This year’s ditional Czech Christmas feast the pre-New Year time, Czechs event takes place under the aus- will be perfect without “Kuba” like buying our products and Although we traditionally cel- pices of the Rotary Club Prague – barley with porcini, fish soup indulging in them. Czechs are ebrated Christmas in Slovenia Bohemia, which joined forces and carp with potato salad. Af- generally very fond of Slove- with our families, the Slovenian with the Sluníčko pro děti (Sun ter dinner, Ježíšek (baby Jesus) nians and Slovenia; they are restaurant Nenasyta, which for Children) foundation. The brings presents. This is fol- happy to leaf through catalogues we opened last year, made us proceeds of the event will go lowed by the film Tři oříšky pro about the charms of our country stay in the Czech Republic, and to inhabitants of the Czech Re- Popelku (Three Nuts for Cinder- and sometimes visit Slovenia on this year it will be no different. public suffering hardship. At ella) based on the tale by Czech our recommendation, too. The time before the New Year the Christmas Market of Ad- writer Božena Němcova and di- is, in fact, our busiest period. vent Trees in the Dolní Břežany rected by Václav Vorlíček, which Meti Kosec and Primož Škerjanec This is when we prepare busi- suburbs of Prague we will serve has been broadcast by Czech - Slovenians who opened a res- ness presents – Nenasyta is a Slovenian winter stews and oth- television every Christmas Eve taurant with authentic Slovenian venue for family and business er spoon food, as well as walnut for over 30 years. Although the food in Prague celebrations – and visit Christ- potica for those with a sweet Czechs are mostly atheists, they mas markets. Although we have tooth. All of these markets will attend the Midnight Mass with quite a number of staff, this is sell the produce of Czech farm- their families. a key period for us so we will ers, while the Slovenian stall be present in person. We will will offer delicacies from Slove- spend Christmas Eve at home, nian farms and cook traditional decorating the tree, lighting a winter food – jota stew with fire in the fireplace and having a pickled turnips and kranjska good dinner followed by a toast klobasa sausages, Szegedin gou- with vintage wine. New Year’s lash, sarma rolls, bograč stew… Eve will be taken up with work, and outstanding wines of Slove- though, as Nenasyta will host nian winemakers. a celebration for an organised group. Our company Foodad- On Štědrý den (Christmas Eve), venture, which offers top-class people are supposed to fast until Slovenian delicacies in the mar- the evening, when an abundant ketplaces of Prague, will have a dinner is served. Parents prom- busy December, with numerous ise to their children: »Kdo o events being organised. Štědrý den nebude celý den jíst, uvidí večer zlaté prasátko« (If First we will attend the Christ- you do not eat all day on Christ- mas Market at Drahenice Castle, mas Eve, you will see a golden

36 Government Communication Office heritage

The Old Days were Better courses, is smaller from year to my mother I attend a ceremony year. or a mass, where I meet fewer On Christmas Eve I go for I live in the centre of Buenos people each time, which is sad Aires, some distance from the These days – I do not go to masses in a way. I nevertheless stick to a meal at my mother’s – homes of pre-war and post-war in Argentina, only in Slovenia this habit – let it be until it lasts! my father died 20 years Slovenian immigrants; the closest on exceptional occasions – I al- The mass, which is held in Slove- ago; sometimes we are such place is the old institution ways attend the early “Midnight nian, is always accompanied by a from 1870 that later changed into Masses”. Although the weather choir. On the following morning also joined by the family a Yugoslav establishment, and at Christmas is hot, the rituals people hold Christmas receptions of my sister, whose hus- has retained that name to this day. are European, which means that in their homes, which I some- band is Slovenian, too. the food is suited for the cold times attend but not very often. The old days were better for me. climate and Santa Clauses sweat Christmas receptions – masses We attended Christmas and Eas- heavily under their red gar- followed by breakfast – are quite ter ceremonies, Easter food bless- ments, caps and beards. Christ- well-attended, and people gather ings and Midnight Masses. After mas trees are decorated with in clubs, which are the centres of the Argentinian crisis caused by cotton wool to simulate snow. the communal life of Slovenians. international capitalism in the On Christmas Eve I go for a meal Rok Fink, economist late 1980’s, the city became dan- at my mother’s – my father died gerous, especially on the outskirts 20 years ago; sometimes we are where most post-war Slovenian also joined by the family of my immigrants live. This means that sister, whose husband is Slove- the number of people attend- nian, too. Two of their children ing the ceremonies in the central now live in Ljubljana. My mother Slovenian House, the headquar- lives not far from the Slovenian ters of the Zedinjena Slovenija House, in a quarter inhabited by (Unified Slovenia) organisation, people from Primorska who fled which also has a theatre or multi- to Argentina between the two purpose hall, a church and offices World Wars to escape the Italian and offers secondary education terror and poverty. After visiting

Christmas in the Far North song Santa Lucia, and offer Lucy’s housewives throwing away cook- biscuits previously baked in the ing water first scared away the The population of northern Eu- school kitchen. elves by yelling “Hoosh, hoosh!”, rope, which is predominantly and only then poured the hot wa- Lutheran, devotes a lot of atten- In the Advent period, manag- ter out in the yard. tion to Advent – the prepara- ers invite their employees to a tion for Christmas. This generally Christmas feast (Julebord). Food One thing, however, has re- quiet period is filled with events. is precisely defined in the Christ- mained unchanged since the end Advent begins on 1 December, mas period. Advent is the time of the war: Norway always pres- when lights on giant Christmas for modest food while Christmas ents Britain with a huge Christ- trees are lit in town and village dinner is rich. The dinner starts mas tree as a way of thanking for squares. This is not a family event with mashed swede followed by the British help for Norwegian but a communal ritual: families lamb ribs (pinnekjøtt) and an refugees during the war. Each bring their children, choirs sing indispensable lutefisk, stockfish year the tree, which stands in Christmas carols, there are vari- adored by some and loathed by Trafalgar Square, preaches “Peace ous performances and children others. There is even a club for on Earth”. get a lot of presents. Dancing those who love this lye-soaked Ida Pedersen, translator living in around the Christmas tree and fish, similar to the club for sau- Oslo singing Christmas carols confirm téed potato lovers in Slovenia. the beginning of Advent. Garlands Every true Christmas feast must and golden ribbon draped on the include the following: ribbe – tree originate from the Scandina- roasted pork belly, julepølse – vian myth about beautiful fairy pork sausage with red cabbage Huldra, with her long golden hair, and potatoes, medisterkaker – who conceals a cow tail under fried minced pork meat and flour her clothes. You have to be kind patties, and countless kinds of to her, or else she might take se- biscuits, cakes and other desserts. vere revenge. Another important My favourite is called Trollkrem day is St Lucy’s day, 13 December, – mousse made of cranberries, when processions of white-clad whipped egg whites and sugar. children take place at schools. Scandinavians do not forget that They are headed by Lucy, bearing elves deserve a Christmas treat, a wreath of light on her head (for- too, so they make them porridge merly a wreath of real candles). and place it outside, out of reach Children sing the well-known of cats and mice. In the old days,

Sinfo – Slovenian information 37 CULTURE Irena Kogoj, Tanja Glogovčan

France Prešeren A Toast

A Toast, France Prešeren, Illustrations: Damijan Stepančič, The vintage, friends, is over, Publisher: Mladinska knjiga, And here sweet wine makes, once again, 2013, Ljubljana Sad eyes and hearts recover, Puts fire in every vein, Drowns dull care Everywhere And summons hope out of despair.

France Prešeren (3 De- cember 1800 – 8 Feb- ruary 1849) has been considered Slovenia’s greatest poet for a centu- Let peace, glad conciliation, ry and a half. His poetry Come back to us throughout the land! is a match for that of all Towards their destination Let Slavs henceforth go hand-in-hand! other great poets around Thus again the world. The day of Will honour reign To justice pledged in our domain. his death is marked as a Slovenian Cultural Holiday, and the seventh stanza (God’s blessing on all nations,) of his most famous poem, “Zdravlji- ca” (“A Toast”), has been the text of the Slovenian anthem since 1989 and of the national anthem since 1991. Prešeren wrote “A Toast” in the To you, our pride past measure, form of a social drinking Our girls! Your beauty, charm and grace! song in the autumn of here surely is no treasure To equal maidens of such race. 1844. It was first pub- Sons you’ll bear, Who will dare lished in Kmetijske in Defy our foe no matter where. rokodelske novice (Ag- ricultural and Artisan News) in 1848. The poem is patriotic and tolerant towards other nations. It first toasts its own na- tion, the Slovenians, then all nations of the world, and in the final stanza, all good hearts. We selected few stanza for you.

38 Government Communication Office CULTURE

To accept an unusual challenge and publish a picture book on the topic of the Slovenian anthem was a courageous act, which Mladinska Knjiga Publishing House undoubtedly justified by inviting Damijan Stepančič, the experienced illustrator, to illustrate Zdravljica (A Toast). The analytical approach to artistic interpretation typical of the frequently awarded Stepančič can be seen in the entire editorial design of the sensitive homeland theme. It is almost a miniature historical textbook, equipped with stylised portraits of prominent Slovenians chronologically and thoughtfully intertwined from stanza to stanza with their personal fates and placed in their geographical spaces with the corresponding symbols of Slovenian identity.

God’s blessing on all nations, Who long and work for that bright day, When o’er earth’s habitations No war, no strife shall hold its sway; Who long to see That all men free No more shall foes, but neighbours be.

Damijan Stepančič was born on 22 May 1969 in At last to our reunion - Ljubljana. After graduat- To us the toast! Let it resound, ing from the Secondary Since in this gay communion By thoughts of brotherhood we’re bound. School for Design and May joyful cheer Ne’er disappear Photography in Ljubljana, From all good hearts now gathered here. he continued his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts. After two years at the department of design and realising that, when faced with fundamen- tal artistic problems, he preferred the classical approach, he decided to continue his studies at the department of paint- ing in 1991. He gradu- ated in 1996 under Prof. Gustav Gnamuš with a series of paintings. He has been particularly ac- tive in the illustration of books for youth and also of periodicals. In addition to painting, he expresses himself through comics, animation and puppets. He received the 2013 Kristina Brenkova Award for the original Slovenian picture book, Zdravljica (A Toast).

Sinfo – Slovenian information 39 CULTURE column Rok Žnidaršič, Architect

France Prešeren and Čopova street Capital’s public spaces as a representative space for all citizens Photo: A rchives of L jubljana of Municipality

Čopova ulica, which in the second half of the 70’s became one of the comprehensive renovation of the river banks with new bridges, the first pedestrian zones in Slovenia, is one of the oldest streets of the city of Ljubljana ranks among those European cities that are aware Ljubljana. It connects the main urban thoroughfare, the former Emona of the importance of quality public urban areas for the democratic life cardo, with the main one of the five medieval entrances to the town. of the city. Well-arranged and maintained urban space that is open to everyone at all times is a quality that makes common life in cities more This is what was behind the decision to select those verses of the pleasant and represents the ideal of an open and democratic society. greatest Slovenian poet France Prešeren, which in addition to the The reasoning behind the prestigious biennial prize – the European profound substantive message also denote Slovenian statehood. As Prize for Urban Public Space, intended to encourage the creation, a place of constitutional siognificance and the country’s capital city, revitalisation and improvement of public space – won by Ljubljana in Ljubljana definitely calls for suitable symbolic representation in the 2012, stated that the condition of public space is a good indicator of the urban area. We believe that in this way too, we can contribute to raising healthy development of society and urban management. awareness of the capital’s public spaces as a representative space for all citizens, and thereby upgrade the cultural and linking role of the Čopova street is also part of Ljubljana’s famous promenade connecting city, which should go beyond the role of political and administrative the old town with the central Tivoli Park. During the post-earthquake centre of the country. In contrast to other state symbols, the selected reconstruction of the city, architect Maks Fabiani placed Prešeren’s seventh stanza (national anthem) is the very state symbol with which monument at the end of the street, thereby creating a cityscape that the majority of citizens can identify. epitomises views of the city. In planning the comprehensive renovation, the place from which this symbol first comes into view seemed the The message of serenity and peace in the Slovenian national anthem most appropriate place to be commemorated with the poet’s verses, is universal and all-embracing; in addition to bringing together all so as to connect it experientially and substantively to the square and Slovenians and citizens of the Republic of Slovenia, it also addresses and its monument. Furthermore, this is one of the most popular meeting brings together other visitors to the city. With its systematic expansion points in the city, and the street itself is one of the most famous urban of pedestrian zones to renovated streets and squares as well as through areas in the whole country.

40 Government Communication Office Polona Prešeren CULTURE

Fran Levstik’s legendary story Martin Krpan as Slovenian superhero

The story of Martin Krpan z Vrha (Martin Krpan from political movement. Although the story initially Vrh) saw the light for the first time in 1858, when received a poor response, decades later Martin it was published in the literary journal Slovenski Krpan became a hero of almost mythical proportions glasnik; its author was Fran Levstik, a poet, writer, with a significant influence on the development of literary critic and pioneer of the Young Slovene national awareness. A Photo: ST Photo:

The legendary illustrations of Martin Krpan were created by painter Hinko Smrekar.

Even today, Martin Krpan is makes way for it by simply lift- In terms of national awaken- closely associated with the na- ing up his mare and moving her ing, this is an essential aspect tional affiliation. The middle of aside. The Emperor was thus of Levstik’s story, which was of the 19th century thus witnessed taken aback by Martin Krpan’s major importance, also influenc- the birth of Martin Krpan, a char- strength. A year later, the Emper- ing the awakening of Slovenian acter who has become a funda- or summoned Krpan to the royal national awareness. To make the Ever since its birth and mental and timeless Slovenian Viennese court, as Vienna was story more powerful, Levstik put superhero, deeply rooted in the being terrified by Brdavs, a bru- it in the mouth of an old farmer publication, Levstik’s cultural awareness of every Slo- tal warrior who ruthlessly mur- and so added the simple colour- story has roused Slove- venian. dered everyone who came his ful narration of a story-teller, thus nian readers and literary way. Simple but clever, not at all bringing it even closer to the peo- The story of Martin Krpan conceited, such as he was, Krpan ple. critics alike. It has made easily defeated Brdavs. He did his a truly remarkable im- Let’s start from the beginning. job. Now he only had to provide Ever since its birth and publica- pact. As noted by literary Who is Martin Krpan? Well, he’s himself with a permit for carrying tion, Levstik’s story has roused historian and researcher a very well known character to all on with the transportation of salt Slovenian readers and literary Slovenians but maybe completely and head home with his mare. critics alike. It has made a truly of Slovenian literature unknown to the foreign reader. Martin Krpan is a simple smug- remarkable impact. As noted by Anton Slodnjak, with his Levstik’s Krpan is a stalwart, a gler of salt, with a sober and clear literary historian and researcher tale of Martin Krpan Fran simple but unique countryman mind, who in a tactful but his own of Slovenian literature Anton Levstik wanted to cre- from the village of “Hilltop by unique way rescues the Emperor Slodnjak, with his tale of Mar- the Holy Trinity”, who made his and Vienna from the giant Br- tin Krpan Fran Levstik wanted ate an artistic model for living by smuggling English salt. davs. For his work, Krpan was not to create an artistic model for theoretical debate, since Because of his actions, he ran into amply repaid; instead, he faced theoretical debate, since Mar- Martin Krpan is a cul- many problems with the authori- ingratitude and ridicule, but he tin Krpan is a culmination of the ties. One day, Krpan accidentally dealt with this in his own distinc- folklore narrative mode. In Slod- mination of the folklore meets the imperial carriage and t ive way. njak’s opinion, Levstik’s aim was narrative mode.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 41 CULTURE

to implement his literary pro- tional character then spread from petitions for the strongest Slovene. gramme and show what type of academic circles to the general The Sečovlje Saltpans also mar- prose should be written for Slo- public. keted its brand and story of salt on venians. the image of Martin Krpan. Where Thus, in our consciousness, Mar- it smells of power, there’s Martin A hero and a smuggler tin Krpan is perceived as more Krpan! than just a simple man with ex- The story of Martin Krpan is a Slo- traordinary strength. He is one It is also interesting to note that venian story about the fight be- of those heroes of Slovenian lit- prior to Slovenia’s accession to tween a simple and little man and erature who are distinguished the European Union, even vari- a giant. Martin Krpan is a man of by courage, dignity and modesty ous debates were held, mainly the people, who on account of his and who have been entirely in- political ones, in which Vienna physical strength and lightness of ternalised by Slovenians. There was compared to Brussels. The heart becomes a real and authen- are many folk stories associated character of Martin Krpan is also tic Slovenian superhero. It was not with Krpan’s paths and strength. attractive in terms of national until the end of the 19th century, In folk tradition, we can still find awareness. Krpan is a hero raising however, that the reaction to the stories about the whereabouts of national awareness and affilia- story became more visible. And his homestead at the Hilltop by tion. Also its author, Fran Levstik, Krpan’s popularity really began the Holy Trinity near Pivka and was a fervent patriot and a great to rise only in the twentieth cen- Postojna, and this is just on the Slovenian, politician and linguist. tury. Publishers issued the story road that led to Trieste and on To the very end, he remained true in a variety of forms – from pic- which the traffic in salt was most to his words, which he wrote in ture books for children and adults b u sy. his play entitled Tugomer: “Be to various collections and edi- tough and merciless, a man of tions. Bojan Baskar (ethnologist, National derivations steel, when defending the honor 2008) wrote that a real explosion and justice of the nation and of its of Krpan’s popularity occurred in Today we can find a wide variety language! (Trd bodi in neizprosen, the period before Slovenia’s in- of offshoots – Martin Krpan lent mož jeklen, kadar je braniti časti dependence. The image of Krpan his name to numerous products in pravde narodu in jeziku svo- embodying the Slovenian na- and institutions, including com- jemu!)”. Photo: ST

Fran Levstik was a A Slovenian poet, play- wright, literary critic, journalist and pioneer of the Young Slovene political movement. With his literary works entitled Popotovanje iz Litije do Čateža (A Journey from Litija to Čatež) (1858), Napake slovenskega pisanja (Mistakes in Slovene Writing) and other critical essays, he formulated a literary Today we can find a programme that in the wide variety of offshoots 19th century provided – Martin Krpan lent a basis for Slovenian his name to numerous literary creation. To products and institutions, set an example for his literary principles including competitions and guidelines for for the strongest Slovene. prose writing, Levstik The Sečovlje Saltpans wrote a story of Martin also marketed its brand Krpan z Vrha (Martin and story of salt on the Krpan from Vrh). He image of Martin Krpan. was born in 1831 in Dolnje Retje near Ve- Where it smells of power, like Lašče. there’s Martin Krpan!

42 Government Communication Office CULTURE rama L jubljana Uhan/SNG D rama Peter Photo:

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF and determination. Precisely be- rector Janez Burger explored the Scene from the theatre performance SALT SMUGGLING cause Martin Krpan is a simple idea of how to bring Krpan and of Martin Krpan at SNG Drama Ljubljana. man, his character is an even the play closer to “the children The interpretations of Krpan’s stronger inspiration to the na- growing up in an overabundance salt smuggling are particularly tion and its power. In this respect, of audio-visual sensations – from interesting. In the period of Mar- the parallels between a simple the TV and cinema to the internet tin Krpan, Austria did not permit literary hero and his political di- and video games and other appli- any buying and selling of salt, mension are of significant rel- cations in smart phones – while nor did it abolish the monopoly evance. not losing the most important of domestic salt originating from feature of the play – the magic Trieste until as late as 1819, when Martin Krpan on Stage of narrating a story about a pri- free trade was introduced. This mary Slovenian superhero.” The led to a widespread smuggling In art, Martin Krpan is currently basic feature of the performance of salt, and Levstik’s idea for the a very significant figure, also -be is a narrator who is telling Levs- story of Martin Krpan came from cause the story is being staged tik’s story about Martin Krpan such smugglers. This is one in- at the Slovene National Theatre with recorded dialogues of all the terpretation. Another interpreta- Drama (SNT Drama) in Ljubljana. characters that appear therein. tion suggests that Krpan peddled Starting this month, SNT Drama Using animations and other au- English salt or saltpetre, which will present the most updated dio-visual sensations, the nar- was used for making explo- theatre performance of Martin rator’s story spreads across the Krpan. With this performance, it sives. stage and in the interaction with Using animations and seeks to bring the story of Martin the narrator forms a compact Krpan closer to younger genera- Krpan today world of contemporary audio- other audio-visual sen- tions by introducing a video ani- visual narration: “In this way, sations, the narrator’s Today Martin Krpan has become mation. The performance is aimed we wanted to create a warm and topical in light of the difficult situ- at children from 4 to 14 years as story spreads across the amusing performance to bring stage and in the interac- ation in which Slovenia has found well as the older audience – the the story of our hero from the itself and the strength that our play is timeless and can thus be 19th century to the children from tion with the narrator country has to show to overcome enjoyed by everyone, regardless the 21st century,” Janez Burger forms a compact world this situation. Levstik’s Krpan is of age. The voice of Martin Krpan explains. thus exactly what we need – re- is performed by actor Jernej of contemporary audio- silience, agility, resourcefulness Šugman. In creating the play, di- visual narration.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 43 culture Tanja Glogovčan

Alfred Nobel and His Spendthrift Lady Sofija Hess’ Tea Party

To honour the memory of Alfred Nobel, his bust programme and its latest production and a new was unveiled in Celje in October. On the occasion, tourist product, the Sofija Hess’ Tea Party. the local tourist society presented a short cultural Photo: A rchives of C of Municipality

It is not widely known that Alfred Nobel fell fatally in love with a elje woman from Celje, Sofija Hess, the oldest daugh- ter of Heinrich Hess, a renowned merchant of the town. After arriving from Moravia, the fam- ily settled in the Quarter House in Celje, where Al- bert Brunner, the first di- rector of the zinc factory established in 1873, also found his wife Amalija, Sofija’s younger sister.

Alfred Nobel quickly became rich from the production of dynamite in his own factories around the world. In 1867, 11 tonnes of dynamite were produced; three years later, as many as 424 tonnes. His companies around the world quickly grew into an empire, and Nobel invested in their management all of his time. He occasionally attended a reception, but most of the time he remained alone.

It is not widely known that Al- ja’s younger sister. Over the years, tion of the promising industrial fred Nobel fell fatally in love with both engineers, Nobel and Brun- plant and thus greatly contributed a woman from Celje, Sofija Hess, ner, formed a sincere friendship to establishing the zinc factory in the oldest daughter of Heinrich through their correspondence Celje in 1873. The involvement of Hess, a renowned merchant of the and debated the needs, invest- Alfred Nobel in the background town. After arriving from Moravia, ments and operation of the new of the story on the operation of the family settled in the Quar- zinc factory. Josef Neckermann, one of the largest companies in ter House in Celje, where Albert then Mayor of Celje and founder the Celje region was the reason Brunner, the first director of the of the predecessor of the Celje for holding the exhibition ‘140 zinc factory established in 1873, Tourist Society, ensured suitable Steps in the History of Cinkarna also found his wife Amalija, Sofi- land in Gaberje for the construc- Celje’.

44 Government Communication Office culture Photo G CO Photo

The first ever Nobel Prize Award Ceremony was on 10 December 1901.

Nobel’s Safe Gun Powder Private life was an utter fi- letter from her previous lover and asco decided to return to him. He loved Sofija deeply, Alfred Nobel, dubbed by Victor In the mid-1870s, Nobel was one but she was not educated Hugo as ‘the world’s wealthiest He fell in love with a woman of the wealthiest people in the from Celje tramp’, spent his childhood in enough for a great intel- world, but his private life was a poverty. Due to his father, also an lectual and man of the failure. As a young man, he fell In that period, Nobel met a young inventor, he acquired an excellent in love with a Swedish woman in flower seller in a Viennese florist’s world such as Nobel. In education. At the end of 1863, he Paris (he carefully kept her name shop, Sofija Hess, the daughter of order for her to advance was able for the first time to det- from the public), but the idyll was a Celje townsman, Heinrich Hess, onate nitroglycerine with the aid intellectually, he, in interrupted by her death. After who completely charmed him of a small amount of gunpowder. addition to a maid and the tragic loss, he met 33-year with her youth. During his fre- This was the first stage in the -de old Bertha Kinsky, of the Kinsky- quent visits to the Austrian capi- cook, also hired a lady velopment of a more powerful Tettau family of impoverished tal, where he planned to open a companion to teach her detonator later used in dynamite. Austrian counts, with the help dynamite factory, he dedicated flawless French. When Between 1867 and 1868, his pat- of a personal ad in the Viennese most of his time to ‘his beloved ents were approved in England newspaper Neue Freie Presse. little girl’. Since she told him that he realised that Sofija and later in most other Western This story would have had a hap- she was under age, he persuaded had no desire to study, European countries and the USA, py ending as Nobel was seriously her to return to her father in Celje, he wrote to her, “A man South America, the British colo- considering marriage if, 14 days where he would visit her. He can be head over heels in nies and Australia. after starting their relationship, loved Sofija deeply, but she was Bertha had not received a love not educated enough for a great love, but a letter such as you have written can be

elje a blow to the heart.” rchives of Municipality of C rchives Photo A Photo

Quotation from the Tea Party: Sofija: “…meine liebe Alfred really loves me, and my family too. Already before I was born, he liked to come to Cili (colloquially: Celje) and spoke to Herr Brunner about that factory of his all the time. My Alfred invited him to come to work in his factory – somewhere in Europe – but my brother-in-law Albert looked upon his factory as his baby. At least, that’s what my Alfred told me. He didn’t want to go anywhere else. But he still wanted advice from my Alfred, and his visits…”

Sinfo – Slovenian information 45 culture

intellectual and man of the world Nobel’s contacts with Celje and Brunner also informed Nobel Nobel found a kindred such as Nobel. In order for her to about various technical innova- advance intellectually, he, in ad- Alfred Nobel visited Celje and tions and favourable investment spirit in Brunner, an dition to a maid and cook, also Sofija’s relatives several times possibilities. At the end of 1890, excellent technician, hired a lady companion to teach with Sofija and at least once on when wishing Nobel a happy and even offered him a her flawless French. When he re- his own. Friderika, the young- New Year in the name of his fam- est Brunner daughter, described well-paid job in one of alised that Sofija had no desire to ily, Brunner cordially wrote, “We study, he wrote to her, “A man can one of his visits, “Once, when frequently remember the joyful his factories in Sweden be head over heels in love, but a returning from a journey to It- hours we spent in your company but Brunner consid- letter such as you have written aly, Nobel visited us in Celje and during your visit. It would please complained to my father about ered the zinc factory his can be a blow to the heart.” After us immensely if you decided to my aunt’s behaviour, saying that visit us again in spring.” But he brainchild and refused several years, he came to terms with the fact that Sofija would she was supposedly cheating on also informed him about busi- him with every waiter. He was the offer. The men were never grow into the ideal of his ness matters, “I have heard that very generous and brought pres- in continuous correspon- perfect woman of tsarist Russia. your company is planning to buy ents for the children from Italy: His ideal was an educated noble- Fehleisen’s haloxylin factory near dence and Brunner also a valuable pocket-watch for my woman, capable of moving ef- Celje. Perhaps this project is an sister and a toy gondola decorated informed Nobel about fortlessly in high society and con- opportunity for you to visit us with seashells for me. When my various technical inno- versing about any social, political more frequently.” The shattered father mentioned to him that he and philosophical issue. He ac- relationship between Nobel and vations and favourable wanted the children to learn the cepted this fact; although he suf- Sofija also affected Nobel’s rela- investment possibilities. piano, Nobel gave him half of the fered greatly because of it, since tionship with Sofija’s relatives; money for the piano.” Sofija was flirtatious, frivolous although it was evident from the letters that the Brunners, espe- and enjoyed a carefree life, which Kindred spirits he provided for her throughout, cially Albert, held Nobel in high even after she cheated on him, Nobel found a kindred spirit in regard. Although he did not visit became pregnant by another man Brunner, an excellent technician, them later in Celje, as he found and had his child. Even then, No- and even offered him a well-paid it difficult to get over the frivolity bel paid her a large annuity and job in one of his factories in Swe- of his beloved Sofija, he kept up a occasionally supported her ad- den but Brunner considered the correspondence with them until ditionally, since Sofija was con- zinc factory his brainchild and his death. stantly in debt, providing her with refused the offer. The men were No difference in death a luxurious lifestyle. in continuous correspondence Alfred Nobel died of a cerebral elje haemorrhage early in the morn- ing of 10 December 1896 in a villa in San Remo, Italy. He died alone. Albert Brunner, the founder and first director of Cinkarna Celje, died three years later. Sofija Hess,

rchives of Municipality of C rchives the woman adored by Nobel, died in Vienna in 1922. Unlike Nobel,

Photo A Photo who left great wealth, she died poor, but also alone. How true were Pastor Söderblom’s words, Nobel left most of his uttered at Alfred Nobel’s funeral in San Remo on 17 December wealth for awards to 1896, “In death, there is no differ- scientists, writers and ence between a multi-millionaire fighters for peace. He left and a cottager, between a genius and a simpleton. When the game Sofija a monthly annuity. ends, we are all the same.”

Fatal 218 letters

Nobel left most of his wealth for awards to scientists, writers and fighters for peace. He left Sofija a monthly annuity. When she threatened to publish all of No- This year marks the 140th anniversary bel’s 218 letters to her and cause of the establishment of Cinkarna and a great scandal, his lawyers paid 170 years of Alfred Nobel’s birth. Josef her a large amount of money Neckermann, then Mayor of Celje from Nobel’s legacy. Such was the and founder of the first Celje Tourist Society, ensured suitable land in epilogue of the almost twenty- Gaberje for the construction of the year relationship between Alfred factory and greatly contributed to the Nobel and a Viennese flower sell- establishment of Cinkarna in 1873. er from Celje.

46 Government Communication Office Tanja Glogovčan CULTURE

Christmas and New Year’s Concert by the SAF Military Band Little Fighter Stories

Time and again members of the Slovenian Armed us how to appreciate the little things and how to Forces listen to the needs of those whom life fight for them, children with cerebral palsy whose has shown but little kindness. On this occasion, development and progress are largely dependent the soldiers were touched by the stories of some on professional assistance. exceptional children — little fighters who teach

This year’s traditional Christ- awards: Nuška Drašček Rojko Parents of healthy children take mas and New Year’s concert by — a versatile artist renowned that for granted. We are often The SAF’s aim was to the SAF Military Band was held for her European tour with the impatient if our child does not help the little fighters on 16 December in Cankar- world-famous Ana Netrebko start to walk at the same time as jev Dom’s Gallus Hall and was and the Slovenian Philharmonic the neighbours’. Children from and their parents on their dedicated to support the Vesele Orchestra, Nina Dominko — the Happy Feet are different and difficult path to achiev- nogice (Happy Feet) society. The visiting soprano of the Ljubljana all the more special. They have ing the greatest possible honorary sponsor of the concert Opera theatre and the winner of learned to appreciate the little was the President of the Repub- the 2011 student Prešeren Award things and show unselfish love.” independence; therefore lic of Slovenia and the Com- of the Academy of Music, and Major General Božič also talked all the proceeds from mander-in-Chief of the Defence Domen Križaj — selected among about the pride solders felt after ticket sales were do- Forces, Borut Pahor. 400 singers within the Young this humanitarian event ended: nated to Happy Feet, the Singers Project to perform in “When we saw sincere appre- Happy Feet Verdi’s Don Carlos at this year’s ciation in the parents’ eyes, my Society for Assistance The SAF’s aim was to help the Salzburg Summer Festival. The and my colleagues’ hearts filled to People with Develop- little fighters and their par- young musicians sang roles from with pride. We were proud be- mental Disorders. ents on their difficult path to the musicals Porgy and Bess, cause we and those who joined achieving the greatest possible Miss Saigon and Les Misérables. us for the concert had recognised independence; therefore all the their distress and expressed proceeds from ticket sales were Hope smiles from the thresh- strong and widespread support. donated to Happy Feet, the So- old of the year to come We have chosen a good fight.” And has the Major General a ciety for Assistance to People “We soldiers are always moved special wish for SINFO read- with Developmental Disor- by the sad stories. As they are ers? “I hope that all your read- ders. The soldiers were joined becoming more common, we ers dare to make mistakes in by many compassionate sup- are becoming more active. Chil- the year to come. In this way porters who also care about dren cannot be overlooked,” one can discover and test new these little fighters. The Happy said the Chief of the General things, learn, live, progress, Feet society will use the money Staff of the Slovenian Armed change oneself and the world. raised to ensure these children Forces, Major General Dobran I believe in what Alfred Tenny- the necessary aids to facilitate Božič. The Major General em- son wrote: Hope smiles from the their development, to facilitate phasised that this year’s con- Happy Feet society: “Every bit of threshold of the year to come, self-help and provide socialis- cert was the first open not only progress counts, no matter how whispering ‘It will be happier.’” small.” ing for parents to help them to to the military but also to the embrace their children’s differ- general public and the first ever ences and offer them the best not to be performed for free. The childhood possible, and to help decision to help children with the families and their mem- cerebral palsy was well con- bers to overcome social distress. sidered. The SAF was touched by the stories and just couldn’t Heartfelt melodies ignore the problems these chil- On the festive evening, the SAF dren face. Major General Božič Military Band led the audience has children of his own. As a through musical stories by Ger- father of two daughters, he can shwin and Schönberg, charmed hardly imagine what the fami- the listeners with Appermont’s lies with children affected by childlike playfulness and de- cerebral palsy must endure: “It lighted them with Slovenian is every parent’s wish to do the evergreens. Performing with the very best for their children, not orchestra were talented young to see them regress in their de- soloists who have started to con- velopment but witness their quer the world stage and already eventual independent and con- won numerous international fident living without limits.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 47 WOW! Anja Polajnar, Irena Kogoj

Prize crossword

Dear readers, We are sure that you read our magazine with great interest throughout the year. So with this in mind, and in order to preserve the respectful playfulness of the magazine’s contents, we have included a Sinfo crossword puzzle as an added feature of this issue. The solutions to the puzzle can all be found in the short sections “What’s up”, “Tips” and “Wow!”, but we do not doubt that you will find the right solutions without looking them up in previous issues!

1. Which Slovenian company was among the 10 winners of the UKTI Award for Innovation? 2. Which is the best Slovenian cookbook in Eastern Europe? 3. Who is the Slovenian candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize? 4. Which Slovenian film impressed the Venice Film Festival? 5. Which Slovenian company received an award from NASA? 6. Who received the 2013 Grum Award for the best play script? 7. Who was the Slovenian Woman of the Year 2012, declared in January 2013? 8. Who is the Slovenian who received the UN Environment Award? 9. Who successfully flew over the North Pole in an ultra-light plane? 10. Which Slovenian company organised a skiing event by the sea called ‘White Circus on the Sea’? 11. Which Slovenian athlete earned a record number of points in Alpine skiing? 12. Who received the Award of European Citizen of the Year 2013? 13. What is the most prestigious Slovenian award for sporting achievements?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Please, send the fullfiled crossword by 31 January to [email protected] Let’s begin the New Year with surprises for you!

48 Government Communication Office Tanja Glogovčan WOW! Photo: Stamko Gruden/ST A Photo: Photo: Nebojša Tejić/ST A

The 29th Slovenian Book Fair Mirko Šubic award conferred Three awards were made at an event which took place under the slogan or famous words of poet Tone Pavček, “If we do not The Slovenian Society for Conservation–Restoration presented read, we’ll be written off”. its Mirko Šubic awards and recognitions. The Award for Life’s Work was bestowed on Jana Šubic Prislan and posthumously The Schwentner Award for significant contributions to Slovenian on Ivo Nemec. publishing and bookselling went to Jože Zupan. The award for the best literary debut went to Jasmin B. Frelih for the novel, Na/pol Recognitions were also awarded to Irena Jeras Dimovska, Vlado (In/Half), and Ana Jasmina Oseban received the Radojka Vrančič Fras Zavrl and the Conservation and Restoration Department of Award for young translators awarded by the Slovenian Associa- the National Museum of Slovenia. Jana Šubic Prislan received the tion of Literary Translators for her translation of the novel Blu- award for her contribution to the development and visibility of menberg by Sibylle Lewitscharoff. the conservation–restoration profession. Throughout her profes- sional career she has endeavoured to achieve the highest quality work and mentorship and to transfer knowledge to experts and

A the lay public alike. Photo: Nebojša Tejić/STPhoto: Photo: D aniel Novaković/ST Photo: A

More than 110 winemakers attend wine festival

The Slovenian Wine Festival, accompanied by the Culinary The second Golden Reel Festival, again this year proved to be the most important event in this area in the country. It brought together more than 110 Čefurji Raus!, a film by Goran Vojnović, adapted from his nov- winemakers. el of the same name, has already been viewed by more than 50,000 people, earning the film its second Golden Reel award- Within the festival, the Association of the Slovenian Order of Knights ed by the Association of Slovene Film Workers and the Kolosej of Wine and the European Order of Knights of Wine selected their Cinemas. respective Knight’s Wine. In cooperation with the sommeliers and winemakers, workshops primarily intended for students were Čefurji raus! was Vojnović’s first novel and won him the Prešeren organised within the festival. Young people who see their profes- Fund and Kresnik awards. The story is set in Fužine, a district of Lju- sional future in hospitality presented their creativity in the Gallery bljana where many immigrants from other former Yugoslav repub- of Tastes. lics (sometimes dismissively referred to as čefurji) live.

Sinfo – Slovenian information 49 tips! Tanja Glogovčan Photo: TaminoPetelinšek/ST rchives of Kranjskarchives Gora A Photo: A Photo:

Live nativity in ice Kranjska Gora, 25 December 2013–3 January 2014

This year you can once again visit the mysterious world of the Snow Nativity scenes in Gradež Gradež, 15 December 2013–5 January 2014 Queen and watch a live Nativity play in the unique scenery of artifi- cial ice waterfalls. You can also take a walk around her kingdom and The exhibition of Nativity scenes in the hidden corners of Gradež view the gallery of Nativity scenes along the path. will feature Nativity scenes of various sizes and materials, made by many Slovenian artisans, some recent and some more than a hun- More information available at http://www.kranjska-gora.si/Home dred years old. The opening ceremony and the pre-Christmas and final viewing will be accompanied by singing, torches and a market. A Source: Association for Heritage Preservation Photo: TaminoPetelinšek/ST Photo: Tamino Petelinšek/ST Tamino Photo: A

Meetings with the past Ljubljana, 16 January 2014

Ljubljana Castle has various links with famous Slovenians, includ- ing Ivan Cankar, Ivan Hribar, Janez Cigler, Juš Kozak, Anton Aškerc, Ivan Vurnik, Ivan Zajec, Marij Pregelj, Jože Plečnik, Boris Kobe, Fer- do Vesel and many others. Some of them were prisoners at the cas- tle, while others lived there voluntarily. Some of them devised plans for various things that could be done with the castle, but only a few The history of a full plate succeeded in making those “castle plans” a reality. Their experience Ljubljana, City Museum, every first Monday of the month until and the traces they left in the history of Ljubljana Castle will be dis- 3 March 201 cussed in the lecture, which will include short excerpts from works by Cankar and Kozak. The lecture will elaborate more on the stories In the lecture by Marko Prpič you will learn about the past through of Ivan Hribar, the mayor to whom most credit should be given for food that made a mark on Europe following the discovery of Ameri- Ljubljana Castle becoming the property of the city, Ivan Cankar as ca. Many foodstuffs that have become daily ingredients of our meals a prisoner, Janez Cigler, the prison chaplain, and Samassa, the bell- only came to Europe after the discovery of America. There was no maker whose villa still stands on the south side of the castle hill. “German” potato, “Italian” tomato or “Slovenian” žganci before that!

More information available at www.ljubljana.si More information available at www.mgml.si

50 Government Communication Office Tanja Glogovčan

Naïve Art from Kovačica

The exhibition entitled “Naïve Art from Kovačica”, organised by the Naïve Art Gallery of Kovačica, the Mihajlo Pupin Cultural Society and the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in the Republic of Slo- venia recently opened at the Trebnje Gallery of Naïve Artists. The exhibition, which features works by artists from Kovačica, a town in Vojvodina, Serbia, is a continuation of the annual display of works of naïve art by foreign artists and an upgrade of the co- operation with the Naïve Art Gallery of Kovačica to date. Traditionally, artists from Kovačica have gathered at an international camp of naïve artists, organised in Trebnje since 1968, where they have created works of art and afterwards donated them to the Trebnje Gallery of Naïve Artists. On the initiative of the Mihajlo Pupin Cultural Society, younger artists first presented works from their own collections in Ljubljana and then in Maribor. In cooperation with the Naïve Art Gallery of Kovačica, the exhibition in Trebnje has been expanded to also include the works of the first generation of artists of naïve art. This group of artists began painting soon after the Second World War and saw creating works of art as one of the ways of preserving their heritage. Their ancestors moved from Slovakia to Vo- jvodina more then 150 years ago, where they established the town of Kovačica. Many members of the Slovak minority still live there, alongside people of many other nations. There are indeed as many as 25 different languages listed as being spoken in the Municipality of Kovačica. In such a diverse environment, members of the Slovak minority use painting as a means of maintaining their ties with their homeland and its customs. Martin Paluška, Jan Sokol, Mihal Bireš, Jan Knjazovic, Zuzana Halupova and Jan Venjarsk were the first to begin painting and were soon followed by others. The exhibition thus showcases the works of the first generation of artists, together with the works of younger artists. It brings to life images of the past, when everyday life centred around the land and work on the farm. This was not only about sowing and harvesting – it involved much more than that. Martin Jonaš, Martin Paluška, Zuzana Halupova, Jan Knjazovic take you on a romantic journey to meet wedding guests and relive the joys of winter and carriage rides. Their successors have woven elements of fairy-tales into everyday life, transporting you to a world of tree houses and giant pumpkins. The exhibition, which runs until 9 February 2014, displays more than 60 works by 23 painters.

Pavel Hajko was born in 1952 in Kovačica. In 1970 he finished high school, professional woodworking craft. His talent was noticed by Martin Jonas. He is constantly engaged in paint- ing since 1973. He participated in the 1974 group exhibition of painters Kovačica. It has been able to build a unique style and his artistic expression diverts attention from the works of previ- ous works of popular artists of Kovačica. Many compositions are based on scenes from the life, with imaginative and colorful stories. The main theme from 1975 is the rooster. The creation of a true legend as a symbol of beauty, life and death, love and struggle. The rooster is a bird of night and day, the bird of darkness and light. First he painted the rooster, symbol of life, struggling with the fox, which leads to death. Since 1981 is part of the ‘Association of Kovačica naive painters.

Source: Trebnje Gallery of Naïve Artists

Sinfo – Slovenian information 51 Pavel Hajko, Rooster, 2013