Slovenia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Slovenia, State of Southern Europe; 20,251 km², 2.1 million residents (2019). Slovenia, which became independent in 1991, borders in the north to Austria, in the northeast to Hungary, in the east and south to Croatia and in the west to Italy. The capital is Ljubljana (280 300 residents, 2017).

Country facts

Republic of Slovenia / Republic of Slovenia
Country abbreviation: SI
Area: 20 251 km²
Population (2019): 2.1 million residents
Capital: Ljubljana
Main languages: Slovenian
State: Republic
Head of State: Borut Pahor (President)
Head of Government: Janez Janša
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 26,234
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 24,840
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country Dialing (Telephony): 386
Internet domain names: si
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: June 25 (Independence Day, 1991)

Nature

Land use: forest (53%), agricultural land (12%), other (35%)
Highest mountain: Triglav (2 864 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 104 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0%; birth rate 10 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (15%), 15-64 (65%), 65- (20%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 78 years, women 80 years
Infant mortality (2019): 2 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 2 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.896 (place 25 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 55%
Most populous cities (2017): Ljubljana (280 300 residents), Maribor (94 900)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (24%), service (66%)
Exports (2017): US $ 32 140 million
Main export products: machinery, electric motors, transport equipment
Main exporting countries: Germany, Italy, Austria
Imports (2017): US $ 30 380 million
Main import products: machinery, manufacturing, chemicals
Main importing countries: Germany, Italy, Austria
Railway network (2014): 1 200 km

Geography of Slovenia

Location and Size

Slovenia is a small but strategically located country in Central Europe, bordered by Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, and Croatia to the south and southeast. It also has a small coastline along the Adriatic Sea, stretching approximately 46 kilometers (29 miles). Slovenia covers an area of 20,273 square kilometers (7,827 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in Europe, yet it is highly diverse in terms of landscapes and natural features.

The capital and largest city of Slovenia is Ljubljana, located near the geographic center of the country. The city serves as the cultural, economic, and political hub, providing a vital connection between Slovenia and other European countries. The country’s small size belies its geographic richness, which includes mountains, rivers, forests, and a small stretch of coastline.

Topography and Natural Features

Slovenia’s terrain is characterized by great geographical diversity. To the northwest, the Julian Alps mark the border with Italy and Austria. The highest peak in the country, Triglav, rises to 2,864 meters (9,396 feet) and is considered a symbol of Slovenian national identity. These mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountaineering.

To the south and east, the landscape transitions into rolling hills, valleys, and forests, which cover more than half of the country’s land area. Slovenia has a well-preserved natural environment, with over 60% of the country being forested. The Karst region in the southwest is known for its unique limestone formations, caves, and underground rivers, with the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, being a notable example.

The central and eastern regions of Slovenia are home to fertile plains, which are particularly important for agriculture. The country’s relatively short coastline on the Adriatic Sea provides scenic coastal towns like Piran and Koper, while also contributing to Slovenia’s maritime economy, including shipping and tourism.

Climate of Slovenia

Continental and Mediterranean Climate

Slovenia experiences a mix of continental, alpine, and Mediterranean climates, depending on the region. The northern and central parts of the country, particularly the mountainous areas, have a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The presence of the Alps influences the weather, resulting in colder temperatures in the winter and cooler, more temperate weather in the summer.

In the southern and coastal regions, Slovenia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with milder winters and warmer, drier summers. This climatic zone is influenced by the Adriatic Sea, which moderates temperatures and reduces extremes. Cities like Koper and Piran, located along the Adriatic coast, experience relatively mild winters with temperatures rarely dipping below 5°C (41°F). Summers are generally warm, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

The transition between these climatic zones creates varied weather conditions throughout the country. Rainfall is distributed evenly across the year, but the highest precipitation occurs during the spring and fall months, especially in the mountainous regions, which receive significant amounts of snow during the winter.

Rainfall and Winds

Rainfall in Slovenia varies depending on the region. The western and central parts, particularly the Alpine and Karst regions, experience higher rainfall, with annual totals ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 millimeters (59 to 98 inches). The coastal region, in contrast, receives less precipitation, averaging about 1,000 millimeters (39 inches) per year. The coastal areas also experience a mild breeze from the sea, which influences the climate, especially in the summer months.

The country experiences a variety of winds, with the most notable being the “bura,” a cold, dry wind that originates from the northeast and affects the Adriatic coastline, bringing cold temperatures during winter. The “jugo,” a warm, humid wind from the southeast, can bring rainy weather to the coastal regions, particularly in the spring and autumn months.

People of Slovenia

Population and Demographics

Slovenia has a population of around 2.1 million people, with the majority of the population being ethnic Slovenes. The country is relatively homogenous, with approximately 83% of the population identifying as Slovene. There are also small communities of ethnic minorities, including Croats, Serbs, Italians, and Hungarians, particularly in regions near the borders with these countries.

The population of Slovenia is aging, with a median age of about 44 years, reflecting a demographic trend seen across many European countries. This aging population presents challenges, particularly in terms of social services, healthcare, and the labor market. Migration, both within the country and from abroad, has played a role in shaping Slovenia’s demographics, especially as young people seek educational and job opportunities in larger urban centers or abroad.

Urbanization in Slovenia is high, with about 50% of the population living in cities, especially in the capital Ljubljana, the largest city in the country. Other major cities include Maribor, Celje, and Kranj, which are centers of culture, commerce, and industry.

Language and Religion

The official language of Slovenia is Slovene, a South Slavic language that uses the Latin alphabet. Slovene is spoken by the vast majority of the population, although English and other languages, such as Italian and Hungarian, are spoken in regions with minority populations. English is widely understood and spoken, especially in larger cities and among younger generations, and it is commonly used in business and academia.

Slovenia is predominantly Roman Catholic, with about 57% of the population identifying as Catholic. The country has a strong Catholic tradition, which plays a significant role in cultural and social life. Other religious groups include Eastern Orthodox Christians, Protestants, and small communities of Jews and Muslims. The country’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and religious tolerance is a key aspect of Slovenian society.

Education and Health

Education in Slovenia is highly valued, and the country boasts a high literacy rate, with education being compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 15. The education system in Slovenia is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Slovene schools place a strong emphasis on science, mathematics, and languages, and the country’s students consistently perform well in international education rankings.

Higher education in Slovenia is also well-regarded, with institutions such as the University of Ljubljana, which is the largest and oldest university in the country, offering a wide range of programs in various fields. Slovenian universities are known for their research output, particularly in science and technology, and the country is home to several international research centers.

Slovenia’s healthcare system is publicly funded and universally accessible. Healthcare services are high-quality, with modern medical facilities and well-trained professionals. The country has a well-established primary healthcare system, and residents can access specialized treatment through a network of hospitals and clinics. Slovenia has one of the highest life expectancies in the region, and public health is prioritized by the government, which has invested in preventive measures and public health campaigns.

Economy of Slovenia

Key Industries

Slovenia has a highly developed and diverse economy, with key industries including manufacturing, services, and agriculture. The country’s manufacturing sector is particularly strong, with industries such as automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals contributing significantly to the economy. Slovenia is home to several multinational companies, including the pharmaceutical company Krka and the car manufacturer Renault, which has a plant in the country.

The automotive industry plays a crucial role in Slovenia’s economy, with the country being a major producer of vehicles and automotive components. The country is also a significant player in the global semiconductor industry, with companies like Iskratel specializing in telecommunications equipment and technology.

Tourism is another important sector for Slovenia. The country’s natural beauty, including lakes, mountains, and forests, as well as cultural attractions such as castles, historical towns, and festivals, make it an appealing destination for visitors. The capital city of Ljubljana, with its charming old town, and the picturesque Lake Bled are among the country’s top tourist attractions. Slovenia is also known for its spa resorts and its rich culinary tradition.

Economic Challenges

Slovenia’s economy, while highly developed, faces several challenges. The country’s reliance on exports, particularly in the automotive and electronics sectors, makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global demand. Additionally, the country’s small size means that it has a limited domestic market, which affects the growth potential of local businesses.

The aging population is another significant challenge for the Slovenian economy, as it puts pressure on the healthcare system, pensions, and the labor market. The government has implemented policies to address these issues, including reforms to the pension system and efforts to increase labor force participation.

Slovenia also faces the challenge of reducing income inequality and ensuring equitable economic growth. While the country has a relatively high standard of living, there are disparities between urban and rural areas, with rural regions often facing higher unemployment and lower access to services.

Government of Slovenia

Political System

Slovenia is a parliamentary republic, with a multi-party political system. The president of Slovenia serves as the head of state, with a largely ceremonial role, while the prime minister is the head of government. The president is elected every five years by popular vote, while the prime minister is appointed by the National Assembly, the country’s legislative body.

The National Assembly is a unicameral body with 90 members, who are elected every four years. The assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the work of the executive branch. Slovenia has a multi-party system, and coalition governments are common due to the proportional representation electoral system. The country’s political system is characterized by democratic principles and respect for human rights.

Slovenia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and other international organizations, and its foreign policy is closely aligned with EU policies. The country is committed to European integration and has adopted many EU laws and policies, including those related to trade, environmental protection, and human rights.

Legal System

Slovenia’s legal system is based on civil law, influenced by German and Austrian legal traditions. The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches, and the country has a well-developed legal framework that ensures the protection of civil rights, property rights, and the rule of law.

The Constitutional Court of Slovenia is the highest court in the country, with jurisdiction over constitutional matters and the ability to review the constitutionality of laws. The judicial system also includes a Supreme Court, which handles appeals, as well as a network of lower courts. Slovenia’s legal system is regarded as fair and transparent, although challenges remain in areas such as court backlogs and judicial efficiency.

Culture of Slovenia

Arts and Music

Slovenia has a rich cultural history, shaped by its position at the crossroads of different European cultures. The country has a long tradition of music, literature, and visual arts, with notable Slovenian composers such as Slavko Avsenik and France Prešeren, a poet who is regarded as one of the greatest Slovenian literary figures. The country’s music scene is diverse, encompassing everything from classical and folk music to contemporary genres such as rock and electronic music.

Slovenian art is similarly varied, with influences from both the Latin and Slavic traditions. Artists such as Zoran Mušič, a painter known for his post-World War II works, and architect Jože Plečnik, known for his designs in Ljubljana, have made lasting contributions to the country’s cultural legacy. The country also has a thriving theater scene, with festivals like the Ljubljana Festival and the Maribor Theatre Festival showcasing Slovenian and international theater productions.

Festivals and Traditions

Slovenia celebrates a wide range of cultural festivals, most notably the Ljubljana Festival, which takes place every summer and features performances in music, dance, theater, and opera. Traditional festivals, such as the Kurentovanje festival in Ptuj, celebrate Slovenian folk culture and customs, with people dressing in elaborate costumes and taking part in parades and other events.

The country also celebrates several religious and national holidays, including Christmas and Easter, as well as the Slovenian Statehood Day on June 25, which marks the country’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. These celebrations often involve family gatherings, religious services, and public events.

Cuisine

Slovenian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s geographic location and multicultural heritage, blending influences from Italy, Austria, Hungary, and the Balkans. Traditional Slovenian food includes hearty dishes like jota (a sauerkraut and bean stew), idrijski žlikrofi (dumplings filled with herbed meat), and kraški pršut (dry-cured ham). Slovenian cuisine also features a wide variety of pastries and desserts, including potica, a rolled dough cake filled with walnuts or other fillings.

The country’s wine culture is also important, with Slovenia being one of the oldest wine-producing regions in Europe. The country’s vineyards, particularly those in the Primorska region, are known for producing high-quality wines such as rebula, pinot noir, and laški rizling. Slovenia’s culinary scene has become increasingly diverse in recent years, with international influences contributing to the evolution of modern Slovenian cuisine.