| |
Idrija
Where mercury and lace
weave their unique story
Idrija, a town, squeezed into a narrow basin in the midst of a hilly and woody region, conceals rich heritage created over several centuries of mining activities.
Read here how mining and lacemaking weave their unique story. And why this town is worth a visit or two…
You will - like us - discover the rich cultural heritage of this region between the Alps and Karst, not only in the award winning museum collections.
Also the authentic atmosphere of stately buildings, unspoilt parks and the ever thriving folk arts will impress you.
Mercury mine: Anthony’s main road
In the center of the town stands a prominent building, the Selstev, one of the main entrances to the mercury mine in the past. It is only a five minutes walk from the bus station.
By the way, Idria was the second largest mercury mine in the world. Anthony’s main road began to be dug in the 15oo. In its 500 year history, 147000 tons of mercury were extracted from cinnabar ore bar burning, which is more than 13 % of the total world production of this metal.
Tip: For us a very unique experience was the tour of the oldest part of the
mercury mine -
the Anthony’s main road.
But also the Grad Gewerkenegg (picture left) is worth a visit. It's presenting the 500 year old history of the town and mine.
Lacemaking tradition
In Slovenia lace has been made since the 16th century. It is presumed that lacemaking was adopted from the wives of the miners and mine experts who came to work to Idrija from the german regions of the Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains), but the impact of the italian side (Genoa, Venice) is possible too.
Idria Lace boasts a several hundred year old tradition and reputation. As an influential element of national heritage, Idria Lace is becoming more and more esteemed as a personal, diplomatic or business gift in Slovenia and abroad. The traditional use of Lace was doilies, handkerchievestowels, bed linen or curtains.
I know that this is not everyones taste and especially for me lace had always an old-fashioned touch. But the time has changed…
New brand name: I & Idrija Lace
A great marketing contributed and contributes to the greater recognition of Idria Lace, as it markets high quality lace under the brand name "I & Idrija Lace". In the meanwhile you get unique designed brooches, earrings, necklaces or fashion clothes – which are even for me "must haves".
Especially Lace Jewellery set in semi-precious stones and glass, is an extraordinary gift for fashion victims.
Our tip: Take some time to stroll around the market place of this small town. You will not only discover pittoresque buildings, but also have the option to have a good cup of cappuccino or purchase Idrija Lace in the lace shops and studios in the town. It's a wonderful souvenir for you or a gift for someone special.
I’ve bought myself fascinating "lace earrings" for 32 Euros. When I wear them on special occasions, I’m often asked where one can get such unique jewelry.
If you appreciate bobbin lace, then you shouldn't miss to visit lace exhibitions of Idria lace in the center of Idrija Lace and in the lacemaking School Idria.
Ancient dishes in modern times
Idrija excels also with its special dishes, desserts and drinks. The most famous culinary speciality is "Idrijski Zlikrofi". They are a local speciality - a nationally protected dish - made of dough, filled with potato, chives, marjoram and cracklings, and formed in a specific shape.
Gourmet Tip: Visit the Hotel Kendov dvorec. It is an cultural monument in the spirit of the old times. This superior and famous cuisine of the Kenda chefs is bound to traditional and local specifics.
Zgornja Idrijca Regional Park
The area was proclaimed a park in order to protect the characteristic landscape and offer educational and recreational opportunities.
Under a more than 100 m high precipice of the Crni Vrh plateaus, there hides the lake Divje Jezero (Wild Lake). After heavy rainfalls the water literally bursts out of its spring and turns the typically placid and idyllic lake into a wild one.
In addition to numerous other natural beauties in unspoilt nature, the park boasts some exceptional human creations ranked among tom European achievements.
One example is "Klavze". These are water barriers on the Idrijca and Belca rivers, constructed under Maria Theresa’s time 1770, which enabled the floating of wood for the needs of the mine and the town (Approx. 20 km from Idrija)
back from "this" page to Slovenia Cities
back from "Idrija" page to All Slovenia Holidays Homepage
|
