Our culture
The Benečija region
Modern approaches to culture and nature
The history and culture of the valleys can be explored at the modern, interactive SMO museum, which also offers insight into the current life of Slovenes in Italy. Stories of the region’s past can be discovered in the small ethnographic museums located in mountain villages. Thanks to innovative projects, life is slowly returning to some abandoned villages, as seen in Topolò/Topolove, where the young collective Robida has settled.
Among mysterious forest creatures
Life in these remote villages gave rise to a unique dialect and an oral tradition that reflects the deep connection between the locals and nature. The fairy tales and legends of this area are filled with mysterious forest creatures: the krivapete, enigmatic green-haired women with twisted feet, gnomes, the furry kosmačini, and various birds believed to possess special powers. These creatures could influence human destiny or serve as messengers between the living world and the souls of the departed.
Spiritually rich
The ancient Marian sanctuary of Castelmonte/Stara Gora is a significant landmark in these valleys and a popular destination for many pilgrims. The ex-votos displayed in the church and crypt offer a genuine glimpse into rural life and folk art, including naïve art. Throughout the valleys, 44 Gothic-style votive chapels are connected by a 168 km hiking trail. One of the most striking locations is the cave of San Giovanni d’Antro/Landarska jama, with its sanctuary carved into the rock, which has served as a place of refuge for thousands of years.
Da vicino
I Blumarji, che a Carnevale annunciano la primavera
SMO, la finestra multimediale degli sloveni in Italia
L’eredità di Topolò e il collettivo Robida
