In June, Villa Zlatica came alive in the summer, offering visitors a series of carefully prepared programmes to celebrate important cultural anniversaries and to bring visitors closer to the legacy of the former Mayor of Ljubljana, Ivan Hribar.

On the occasion of World Art Nouveau Day, on 10 June, we once again organised a themed tour in the villa, dedicated to the Art Nouveau architecture and art, which flourished in Ljubljana during the period of Hribar’s mayoralty. Visitors had the opportunity to listen to stories about Hribar’s role in shaping the city’s image, including his influence on architectural decisions such as the layout of the ground floor of the Mestna hranilnica (City Savings Bank). The tour also focused on Hribar’s personal collection of Art Nouveau artefacts, as well as his private and public life.

On Sunday, 16 June, we held the History of Love programme, which takes visitors into the world of love and social norms at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries. The programme reveals many aspects of social life and interpersonal relationships at the time, with some anecdotes also revealing unexpected links to Ivan Hribar, who as a public figure was often the centre of attention.

On 21 June, Villa Zlatica traditionally joined the Summer Museum Night, during which we gave visitors an evening tour of Hribar’s home. In a special evening atmosphere, they were able to see the preserved living quarters, including the Art Nouveau salon and the library, and learn about the historical context in which Mayor Hribar lived and worked.

June at Villa Zlatica was thus a month of stories, experiences and cultural vibrancy. We are already looking forward to the summer days ahead, when we will once again open the doors of the Villa to all those who wish to learn more about the heritage of Ivan Hribar and the rich history of our town.