Velenje

Velenje is a city located in Slovenia, specifically in the northern part of the country. It is the fifth largest city in Slovenia and serves as the economic, educational, and cultural hub of the Savinja Statistical Region.

History

Velenje was first mentioned in written records in the 13th century under the name Weln. It was granted town rights in 1959 and has since developed into a modern city with a rich cultural and industrial heritage. The city is known for its Velenje Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved castles in Slovenia.

Geography

Velenje is situated in the Velenje Basin, which is part of the larger Savinja Valley. The city is surrounded by the Kamnik-Savinja Alps to the west and the Pohorje mountain range to the east. The Paka River flows through the city, providing a natural water source and contributing to the city's scenic beauty.

Economy

The economy of Velenje is largely based on industry, with the Gorenje company being the largest employer in the city. Gorenje is one of the leading European home appliance manufacturers and has its headquarters in Velenje. The city is also known for its coal mining industry, with the Velenje Coal Mine being one of the most modern and technologically advanced coal mines in Europe.

Culture

Velenje is home to several cultural institutions, including the Velenje Museum, which houses collections related to the city's history and culture. The city also hosts the Velenje Summer Theatre Festival, one of the oldest and most popular theatre festivals in Slovenia.

Education

The city has a strong focus on education, with several primary and secondary schools, as well as the School Centre Velenje, which offers vocational and technical education. Velenje is also home to the University of Maribor's Faculty of Energy Technology, further cementing its status as an important educational hub.

See also

• List of cities in Slovenia
• Slovenia