Photo: Nebojša Tejić/Slovenian Press Agency
Dr. Musar hosted the accompanying program for Arraiolos group meeting
On the occasion of the meeting of the presidents of 12 European countries in Slovenia within the Arraiolos Group, Dr Aleš Musar, spouse of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, organised an accompanying programme for their spouses and the spouse of the President of Ireland, introducing them to some of Slovenia’s most important cultural and natural landmarks.
Publish date Lipica and Vilenica,
The programme brought together heritage, tradition, hospitality and the arts, offering guests an opportunity to discover Slovenia beyond the framework of official meetings.
The programme for spouses began at the Lipica Stud Farm, one of the oldest stud farms in Europe and the home of the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses. The guests learned about the centuries-old tradition of Lipizzaner breeding, which is inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. They also enjoyed a performance by the Lipica Riding School and had the opportunity to meet the horses up close. A picnic lunch in the gardens of Lipica Stud Farm was followed by a carriage ride through the picturesque estate. With its distinctive Karst landscape and living equestrian tradition, Lipica introduced the guests to one of the most recognisable symbols of Slovenia’s heritage.
In the afternoon, the guests visited Vilenica Cave, considered the oldest tourist cave in Europe, which has been open to visitors since 1633. Once known as the Queen of Caves, it captivated them with its rich underground formations and the unique beauty of the Karst subterranean world. The guided tour was complemented by a performance by the Karina vocal group in the cave’s Ballroom, bringing together Slovenia’s natural heritage and musical tradition in an extraordinary natural setting.
Dr Aleš Musar emphasised the importance of presenting Slovenia’s cultural and natural heritage to international guests and creating opportunities for personal encounters beyond the framework of official political events. The programme for spouses of Presidents allowed the esteemed guests to experience Slovenian hospitality, discover places of exceptional historical and natural significance, and build connections while exploring Slovenian culture and traditions. Lipica and Vilenica thus offered an opportunity to discover Slovenia through its heritage, nature and the arts.