Zjalca's Story-Idrija
Region | Gorizia Statistical Region |
Starting point | Prelovčeva 5, Idrija |
route duration | 1-3h |
Best time to visit | all year |
Appropriate for | Baby Carriers , 1-3 years of age , 3-6 years of age , 6+ years of age |
Route Description
An adventure for children and families, with an interactively designed exhibition that answers questions with video presentations, animations and models:
- How was Earth formed?
- Why is the road to Idrija so winding?
- Where are the dinosaur footprints located and how did they end up there?
- Where we can find the most beautiful views of Idrija?
- Why is Wild Lake Wild?
- Why are there so many tunnels under Idrija?
- Which rock can I draw with and which one can I find in jewelry?
The interactive exhibition Written in Rocks uses various models, items, animations, and video presentations to present the story on how this region was formed. Families, individuals, groups and school groups are invited to take a tour or a guided tour into our geological past and learn about the interesting sights that can be visited in our region.
A little tip for you: When in the area, do not forget to visit a local inn, which offers a culinary specialty – the Idrija žlikrofi dish.
Interesting Facts
IDRIJA MERCURY MINE
Dive into the unforgettable exploration of the Idrija underground!
Hidden under the town streets is the priceless richness of Idrija mine that drove the development of this mining city for 500 years. Through Šelštev (the entrance building), you can enter Anthony's Main Road, enjoy the shimmer of mining lights showing you the trail of Idrija miners, and take a walk through the oldest part of Idrija mine. With some luck, you will even be able to catch a glimpse of the roguish mine elf Perkmandlc!
Get to know the hard work of miners, precious cinnabar ore, drops of mercury and see the unique underground chapel. The Holy Trinity Chapel was erected in the middle of the 18th century at the end of the tunnel, equipped with a relief of three saints and a statue of its patrons - St. Achatius and St. Barbara.
Anthony’s Main Road dates back to 1500 and is one of the oldest preserved mine entrances in Europe as well as the oldest part of the Idrija mine. See a demonstration of old mining methods: hand digging, loading and transporting ore in carts. Everything is displayed with original tools, copies of old tools and mannequins. The total length of open tunnels at this level is about 300 meters/328 yards. Children aged 3 and older can enter Anthony's Main Road.
There is also a beautiful vantage point not far from the museum entrance, where the view over the entire city opens. Our GPX map shows the way to this location.
We have for you some interesting stories about Idrija
Map
Nearby Restaurants
Guesthouse Mlinar
Where the staff serves local specialties in a pleasant ambience. We chose the Idrija žlikrofi dish and let me say, they were deeeelicious. However, the recipe is top secret!
Žirovska cesta 4
5281 Spodnja Idrija

Mila and Staš recomend
THE VILA SIBILA GARDEN
In the land of adventures Log high among the mountains, where wide fields touch the sky and the sun caresses the grassy plants, lives a young nature lover named Vila Sibila.
The Vila Sibila Garden is hidden and away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and noisy roads. It hides in a corner of a mighty estate on a small hill between dense trees and low bushes. A narrow path leads to it. When you see it, you are first taken by the scent and beauty of colorful medicinal and other flowering plants. In the middle of the garden stands the home of Villa Sibila.
Addressand other info you can find HERE.
