ARTS & CULTURE

Slovenia prides itself on its rich cultural heritage, and the arts play an important role in modern life. Ljubljana is the home of one of the oldest symphonic societies in the world, and is the national and cultural capital. It is host to an opera house, a symphony hall (where Mahler was the resident conductor, and Brahms, Haydn, Paganini and Beethoven were honorary members), as well as ballet, numerous theatre companies and other venues of classical and modern music and dance. Slovenia is rich in writers and poets, including Prešeren and Cankar. Today, Slovenia has 6 professional orchestras and 17 professional drama theatres and is a prominent centre of graphic and fine arts.

Laibach were the best known Slovenian rock artists, while Siddharta are currently the most successful rock group and have an international fan base.