Slovenians are a nation of mountaineers, as evidenced by numerous mountaineering clubs, well-maintained mountain trails and huts, books, sports and educational programs, and even media. The first mountaineering publication, Planinski vestnik (Mountaineering Gazette), is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year!
Planinski Vestnik is also the oldest and longest-running Slovenian magazine in general.
The first issue was published on February 8, 1895, as the journal of the Slovenian Mountaineering Society.
In its very first issue in February 1895, Planinski Vestnik outlined its mission. The magazine emphasized its goal of promoting a love for the mountains and Slovenian pride through articles, illustrations, and photographs, while also providing a platform for publishing interesting articles, images, and photos.
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The first issue of Planinski vestnik, published in 1895. Photo: wikipedia
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• The first stanza of the song Oj, Triglav, moj dom! is the Slovenian mountaineering anthem. The lyrics were written by Matija Zemljič (under the pseudonym Slavin). This song was the ceremonial anthem at the opening of the Triglav Hut on Kredarica on August 10, 1896. The composition was created by the parish priest of Dovje, Jakob Aljaž. Photo: wikipedia
Preserving Slovenian Identity
The mountains have always been an essential part of Slovenian tradition and a source of national identity. It is no coincidence that priest Jakob Aljaž chose to erect a tower on the highest peak in Slovenia.
Planinski Vestnik has played a similar role in resisting Germanization—by fostering the exchange of ideas, preserving Slovenian identity, and nurturing a love for the mountains, which must remain Slovenian.
For this reason, it is also no coincidence that the mountaineering anthem is none other than Oj, Triglav, moj dom! (Oh, Triglav, My Home!).
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Aljaž Tower on Triglav. Photo: UKOM archive
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Slovenian Julian Alps. Photo: Jošt Gantar
A Year of Celebration
On March 30, 2025, the Slovenian Alpine Museum in Mojstrana will host a public trial before a jury of distinguished individuals. This trial is titled "The People vs. Vladimir Habjan or 'We Won’t Give Up Haubi'". In the fall, a documentary film about Planinski vestnik will premiere.
It will present key events, important figures, the development of the magazine, and the people who have contributed most to its growth.
For sure there will be much more of the events. Pay attention!
Date: 20. February 2025
Time to read: 1 min
