Velenje Coal Mine

The Velenje Coal Mine is the sole operational lignite mine in Slovenia and ranks among the most technologically advanced underground mining facilities in Europe. Tucked away in the Šalek Valley, it extracts coal from one of the thickest lignite seams in the world, which reaches up to 160 meters in thickness. While coal mining in the area was first documented in the 18th century, large-scale industrial operations began in the late 19th century. The mine is functionally integrated with the Šoštanj Thermal Power Plant, providing almost all of its output for national electricity generation. The facility utilizes the proprietary 'Velenje mining method,' allowing for high-volume and safe extraction from significant depths. The modern city of Velenje grew alongside the mine, shaping its social and economic identity for over a century. In accordance with European environmental directives, the mine is scheduled for closure by 2033 as part of the country's transition to sustainable energy. The on-site Coal Mining Museum of Slovenia allows the public to experience the underground environment and learn about the miners' heritage.

Nearby cities

Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto is the economic and cultural center of the Dolenjska region.

Velenje

Velenje is located in the Savinja Valley and is one of Slovenia's major industrial centers.

Ptuj

Ptuj is the oldest documented city in Slovenia and boasts a rich Roman past.

Trbovlje

Trbovlje is an industrial city in the Sava Valley known for its long mining tradition.

Kamnik

Kamnik is a historic town at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.

Jesenice

Jesenice is known as the city of steel and ice hockey.

Domžale

Domžale is located north of Ljubljana at the foothills of the Kamnik Alps.

Škofja Loka Medieval Town

Škofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia and boasts a history of over a thousand years.

Škofja Loka

Škofja Loka is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia.

Vrhnika

Vrhnika is located at the western edge of the Ljubljana Marshes and is best known as the birthplace of the writer Ivan Cankar.

Kočevje

Kočevje is located in the heart of Slovenia's most extensive forest area.

Slovenj Gradec

Slovenj Gradec is the administrative center of the Slovenian Carinthia region.

Grosuplje

Grosuplje is located in the Lower Carniola region.

Ravne na Koroškem

Ravne na Koroškem is the largest town in the Slovenian Carinthia region and is known for its steel industry.

Krško

Krško is an industrial city in eastern Slovenia on the Sava River.

History & landmarks

BTC City Ljubljana

BTC City is one of the largest business, shopping, and entertainment centers in Europe.

Ljubljana Town Hall

The Town Hall on Town Square in Ljubljana is the seat of the city municipality.

Brezice

Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Krka rivers, Brezice is famous for its grand Renaissance castle and the iconic historic water …

Metlika

The historic center of Bela Krajina, famous for its castle, winemaking tradition, and the first Slovenian fire brigade museum.

Kostanjevica na Krki

Slovenia's smallest town, located on an island in the Krka River, known as the 'Slovenian Venice' for its significant art treasures.

More places

Maribor City Park

Maribor's city park is a significant green monument with three ponds.