Idrija

 town, Via Alpina

 Upload a photo

Old mercury mining town.

The Municipality of Idrija covers an area of 293 sq km and has 12.000 residents. It spans the upper river basin of the Idrijca and the picturesque mountains, representing a transition between the subalpine and karst regions. This region is known for its abundane of natural sights and culturalhistorical as well technical monuments. The town of Idrija (population 7,000) developed in a basin in the middle of a wooded area. It was here in 1490 that a rich deposit of mercury ore was discovered. Today, Idrija’s famous mercury mine, which was the second largest mercury mine in the world, has closed after 500 years. It has been made in a museum. The people of Idrija are committed to preserving the miners’ tradition and cultural heritage. The new up-and-coming industries are more in alignment with modern economic trends. Let us mention some of the best-known companies: Kolektor in Idrija - a manufacturer of commutators; Rotomatka, and Ydria Motors in Spodnja Idrija - producing electric motors and their components; IMP-Klima in Godovič - producing component parts for air-conditioning; and Iles - furniture manufacturer.

Idrija is also one of the waystations on the Red Trail of the Via Alpina www.via-alpina.org network of long-distance hiking trails. Check their website for where to stay in Idrija.