The special exhibition "Buzzing Slovenia. Of Bees and People" of the Museum of European Cultures (MEK) shows both the tradition of Slovenian beekeeping and innovations from the fields of urban beekeeping and sustainable design. The exhibition takes place as part of the 19th European Days of Culture, dedicated to Slovenia from June 11 to July 9, 2023.
Image gallery
Urban Beekeeping auf den Dächern von Ljubljana
Slowenische Krainer Biene sammelt Pollen
Ansicht der Ausstellung „Buzzing Slovenia: Von Bienen und Menschen“
Green Slovenia is one of the most forested countries in Europe and, with its rich plant diversity from the Adriatic to the Alps, a true bee paradise.
In the country with the highest density of beekeepers in the world, beekeeping and honey products are part of the national culture: they stand for living traditions, unique craftsmanship, sustainable use of resources and the harmonious coexistence of people, animals and nature.
But persistent droughts and the use of insecticides in agriculture threaten the integrity of nature and thus the well-being of bees.
The special exhibition at the MEK uses numerous objects, photographs and media stations to illustrate the development of Slovenian beekeeping and its special features:
Macro shots of bee colonies by photographer Ivan Esenko provide intimate insights into the world of pollinators; wooden bee dwellings show how bees can live. Regionally unique and an integral part of the landscape are the colorfully painted beehive headboards, with motifs from everyday life, history, fables and religion.
The exhibition is accompanied by the four-week program of events of the 19th European Cultural Days, which this year will bring the diversity of Slovenian culture to Berlin:
- For example, there will be the opportunity to enjoy honey with all senses with experts and to visit Berlin city bees together with Slovenian beekeepers.
- As Slovenia is also the guest of honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 2023 under the motto "Honeycombs of Words," a reading with two award-winning Slovenian authors is a must.
- Concerts by renowned bands, culinary events with regional delicacies, workshops, guided tours and talks round off the program.
