Velenje - SloveniaYou might not have heard of Velenje in Slovenia, but this interesting location is worth your attention. Though it has only about thirty thousand inhabitants, this slovenian city has a lot to offer. Small markettown in the pastThe first mention of this town was in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, when Velenje was a small market town, known as a center of trade and handicraft.It persisted like this for a long time, but lignite mining caused the town to expand significantly, especially after WWII. Briefly, the town was called Titovo Velenje, after the death of the Yugoslav president in 1981. However, in 1991, a little before Slovenia achieved its independence, the town was returned to its former name. surrounded by mountains and castlesWhile you'd be hard pressed to find this town on the globe with a magnifying glass, it offers an amazing landscape and charming surroundings. Located in the Velenje basin, the city is surrounded by mountains, and the grand ruin of Salek Castle is a major attraction for tourists.There are actually three castles located in the area, including the Salek, Velenje and Turn Castles. You'll see one or more of them when you enter the city, depending on which direction you come from. 26 churches in the valleyMore ruined castles, in less good shape than the others, are hidden throughout the Valenje basin, making this valley a wonderful place for people who want to see a little bit of the past, or who just like picturesque scenery. There are also many churches in the valley - more than twenty-six of which are still operational.offers many lakesThe valley opens up from the narrow part of the Paka river basin, and this river has in the past been a source of major flooding. However, it's been regulated for the past forty years, and is no longer a problem. Many small lakes and other water features are also present in this picturesque area, too, due to coal mining in the area in previous periods.wonderful place to escape hotter climatesYou'll find the climate to be relatively pleasant, though winters are cold. Summers are quite cool, making this region a wonderful place to escape from hotter climates. Fog in the fall months is common, since warmer water from the lakes comes into contact with cool air. Since the area is cooler than you may be used to, remember to bring appropriate clothing if you're visiting.attractive water sport centerTourist attractions for Velenje are many, including some of the most attractive sports centers in the country. If you love fishing, water sports, and similar activities, you'll have a lot of fun around the area's lakes. There are also lots of walking paths, horse riding trails, tennis courts, golf courses, volleyball and kids' playgrounds. Sailing, windsurfing and rowing are also popular, as is model boating.ski jumping centerIf you visit in the winter, the center of town features a ski jumping center, and you can see traditional games and competitions, too.Something for everyoneThere are also roller skating facilities, saunas, and other attractions as well. History lovers will enjoy the castles mentioned above, as well as the area coal mining museum.No matter what you want to do or see, this slovenian town has something for you too.
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