Most visitors to Slovenia first encounter Dr France Preseren as an imposing bronze statue in the heart of Ljubljana, although more than just being at the heart of the capital, Preseren is at the heart of Slovene identity and culture. Described as the Shakespeare of Slovene literature, Preseren’s poetry articulates the spirit of Slovenia and the Slovenes, and a stanza from his poem ‘A Toast’ is used as the lyrics for the national anthem. Born in Vrba in 1800, his birth house has become a popular tourist destination.
The house was built in the 16th century though its current form dates from 1856 when it was rebuilt following a fire. Opened as a museum in 1939, Slovenia’s first protected cultural site continues to attract thousands of visitors annually. The rooms of the house contain furniture and domestic artefacts dating back to the 19th century. The most important piece of furniture is the poet’s cradle.
Entrance fee is €2.50 (children/seniors €2).
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9.00–16.00; Saturday and Sunday 10.00–17.00; Monday closed.
The Birthplace of France Preseren (pr’ Ribcu) located in the village of Vrba in the Municipality of Zirovnica.
The Birthplace of France Preseren (pr’ Ribcu) located in the village of Vrba in the Municipality of Zirovnica. (Image by Janez Novak / CC BY 2.5)
(Image by Janez Novak / CC BY 2.5)
Two memorial plaques are built in the entrance façade, commemorating the birth of France Preseren and Archbishop Anton Vovk. (Image by immirena805 / CC BY-SA 3.0)
The only bedroom in the house, where France Preseren’s parents slept with the youngest child of the family, who slept in a cradle. (Image by irena1 Mlakar / CC BY-SA 3.0)
Dr. France Presern’s cradle. (Image by Janez Novak / CC BY 2.5)
Black kitchen with an open fireplace and bread oven. (Image by irena1 Mlakar / CC BY-SA 3.0)
Typical Slovenian tiled stove for heating with benches around it for. (Image by irena1 Mlakar / CC BY-SA 3.0)
Main living area – this table was used only at special occasions. (Image by irena1 Mlakar / CC BY-SA 3.0)
Spinning wheel. (Image by irena1 Mlakar / CC BY-SA 3.0)
Location:
France Preseren’s Birth House Address: Vrba 2, 4274 Zirovnica, Slovenia
Latitude and Longitude Coordinates: 46.38788, 14.14746
GPS coordinates: 46° 23′ 16.3860” N 14° 8′ 50.8704” E
Traditional region: Upper Carniola (Slovene: Gorenjska)
Municipality: Zirovnica
Directions from Apartments Fine Stay to the France Preseren’s Birth House (drive 4 km, 5 minutes)
Directions from Apartments Fine Stay Bled to the France Preseren’s Birth House (drive 7 km, 8 minutes)
