HISTORICAL MILESTONES
The first conservation efforts in the Triglav National Park area date back to 1924 when the Alpine Conservation Park was established in the valley of the Triglav Lakes. However, the idea of conservation had been brewing earlier. In 1907, the visionary and local from Gorje, Dr. Albin Belar, proposed the protection of the Triglav Lakes Valley, marking the first initiative for the establishment of a conservation park in Europe.
OH, TRIGLAV, MY HOME
The origin of the name Triglav is not entirely clear to this day. Perhaps it was inspired by the characteristic appearance of the mountain from the southeast side, where one can see three heads of one mountain, or maybe the name preserves a memory of the highest deity from pagan times, which had its seat at the top of Triglav.
UNIQUE LIVING CONDITIONS
Between the lowest point of the park in the Tolmin Gorges and the highest peak of Triglav lies a staggering 2684 meters of altitude difference. Here, the sharp Alpine climate of the Triglav ranges merges with the continental climate and sub-Mediterranean influences from the Adriatic Sea. In its high mountains, the vegetation period of plants shortens by a whole week for every 100 meters of altitude gain.
120 PEACEFUL AREAS
In addition to its natural features, one can feel the profound connection between humans and nature and their desire to protect it. The management plan of the Triglav National Park identifies as many as 120 peaceful areas where special rules and carefully adjusted human activities apply. These areas were designated based on important nesting and wintering habitats of sensitive and endangered animal species.
ENTER THE REALM OF ZLATOROG
In the mountainous paradise of the Julian Alps, lived Zlatorog (Goldenhorn), the magnificent white chamois with golden horns and miraculous powers. When a hunter, seeking his treasure, shot him, miraculous Triglav flowers – edelweiss – sprouted from Zlatorog’s blood. After consuming one, the dying Zlatorog miraculously revived. He then dashed towards the hunter, who, blinded by the radiance of his horns, stumbled into the Soča River in fear.