Celje, Slovenia is a city with a long and fascinating history. Located in the heart of the country, Celje is the third-largest city in Slovenia and the administrative, cultural, and economic center of the Celje region. It has a population of around 37,000 people and is a popular tourist destination.
Celje was first mentioned in written records in the 11th century, when it was a small market town. It quickly grew in importance and was granted city status in 1255. In the 14th century, Celje became the capital of the Counts of Celje, a powerful noble family. The Counts of Celje were the most influential family in the region for a period of two centuries. The city was also home to a variety of religious orders and was a center of learning.
In the 16th century, Celje was occupied by the Ottoman Empire and then by the Habsburgs. During this period, the city was devastated by several fires and plagues. In the 19th century, Celje experienced a period of economic growth and was the center of the Slovenian national revival movement.
Today, Celje is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to several important historical sites, including the Celje Castle, the old town, and the Celje Regional Museum. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and cultural events.
Amazing Facts About Celje, Slovenia
1. Celje is home to the oldest Slovenian theater, the Celje Theatre, which was founded in 1701.
2. Celje is home to the oldest Slovenian brewery, the Celjski Pivovar, which dates back to 1625.
3. Celje was once the capital of the Counts of Celje, a powerful noble family.
4. Celje was the birthplace of the Slovenian national revival movement in the 19th century.
5. Celje is home to the Celje Regional Museum, which houses a large collection of artifacts from the city’s history.
6. Celje is the home of the Celje Castle, a castle that dates back to the 12th century.
7. Celje is home to the oldest Slovenian university, the University of Maribor, which was founded in 1975.
Things to do in Celje, Slovenia
1. Visit the Celje Castle – Located in the center of the city, the Celje Castle is a 12th-century castle that was once the home of the Counts of Celje. The castle is now a museum and is home to a variety of artifacts from the city’s history.
2. Explore the Old Town – The old town of Celje is a charming area filled with narrow streets and historic buildings. The old town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
3. Visit the Celje Regional Museum – The Celje Regional Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Celje. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts from the city’s past.
4. Go Shopping – Celje is home to a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to small souvenir shops.
5. Experience the Nightlife – Celje is known for its lively nightlife. There are a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs to explore.
6. Attend a Cultural Event – Celje is home to a variety of cultural events, from concerts to art exhibitions.
7. Enjoy the Outdoors – Celje is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it the perfect place to go hiking, biking, or birdwatching.