Celje

 Following 2 quiet days, due to the storms and rain, we drove to Celje yesterday (Sunday) morning to Urh’s parents’ apartment. Celje had been badly affected by the recent storms with roads and bridges closed and people advised to stay at home. The Savinja River had risen to 6m from a normal high of 2.1m. 

Upon arrival at the apartment (11.45am), Bojan (Urh’s dad) asked me what I would like to drink? Now you are probably thinking tea or coffee, as we were. Anyway, I settled for local gin (straight) and honey schnapps. Must say, both were very smooth and nice! Anne opted for the Lemoncello. We did get our coffee at a later date! When in Slovenia … do as the Slovenes do  🇸🇮

A very high muddy Savinja River and Celje Castle in background 

Being a bit of a historian, I was interested in Celje’s story, and what an amazing backstory it is! There has been settlement since the Iron Age, the Romans from 100 AD and continuous settlement from 500 AD. The oldest mention of Celje Castle dates back to 1322 and the Counts of Celje were at their peak around 1436!

In the first half of the 14th century, the Counts of Celje built a defence tower (Frederick’s Tower) that served as the last shelter from invaders. It is 23m high and it’s walls are almost 3m thick.


                       Savinja River and Celje

              Southern view of Celje from the castle 

         Lunch with the Ručigaj family near the castle 

Had to include this photo - love the floral displays around Celje township.

A great day with plenty of traditional Slovenian food, more Rikija (local schnapps) thanks to another visit to Ricky’s (Urh’s uncle), lots of history and the usual abundance of Slovenian hospitality - hvala! 



Comments

  1. Anonymous8 August 2023 at 01:09

    Very cool. A different world!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Chris Coleman8 August 2023 at 20:49

    It looks like a fairytale castle, laneways etc. Just loving the pics. That’s hilarious drinking in the morning😂…. Straight gin too

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous8 August 2023 at 23:13

    The morning shots take a bit of getting used to Christine! Looking forward to spending more time in Celje next week! Gary

    ReplyDelete
  4. Raewyn8 August 2023 at 23:34

    You are going to be a Rikiji connoisseur by the time you get home Gary. you might have to start brewing your own. I can see you sitting outside the caravan with your tiny glasses chatting to your neighbours. Very cool castle.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous9 August 2023 at 12:02

      Great idea Raewyn, have to occupy myself somehow! Perhaps Phil could be my assistant. 🤣

      Delete
    2. Anonymous9 August 2023 at 22:02

      There’s no such thing as a great home brew! Phil and Gary could be a dangerous combination 😁

      Delete

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