The Culture, Traditions, and Heritage of Slovenia

The formation of the independent Slovenia in the early 90’s has urged the people of Slovenia to form a unique Slovenian identity. The country has a population of about 1,970,065- 80% of the population consider themselves as “Slovene,” or the first group South Slavs that settled in the area. The rest are considerable groups of Hungarians and Italians. The country identifies mostly with central European culture.  

Slovene or Slovenian is considered as one of the major languages in the country and is spoken by at least 2.4 million people worldwide. The country‘s language is also influenced by neighboring nations, which is why it also has over 7 major dialects, which can be subdivided into at least 32 dialects.  

Most of the Slovenians practice Roman Catholicism, with approximately 57.8% of the population. Though religion is traditionally Roman Catholic, the Slovenian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion. 

Most holidays in the country are religious in nature. Notable secular holidays are the 8th of  February, Preseren Day, also the Slovenian cultural day; the 1st of May, Labor Day; the 25th June, Slovenia Day, which commemorates the independence of Slovenia in 1991; and the 26th of December, Independence Day, which commemorates the proclamation of the independence plebiscite results in 1990.  

Slovenia has a long list of world-renowned artists. France Prešeren, the country’s National artist, is said to have inspired virtually all of Slovenian literature.  

The country’s cuisine is well known for their breads, which are intricately baked into weaves, braids and loaves.  

The country’s national sport is skiing, which is evident in several established skiing centers in the northern parts of the country. These ski centers hold annual skiing competitions such as the World Cup men’s downhill and many more.