Kicking off in September, the villa is set to host a plethora of cultural and educational events.

According to Culture Minister Julijana Bizjak Mlakar, Vipolže Villa is the most magnificent Renaissance villa in Slovenia and something the country can pride itself on. Because the villa had been declared a monument of national importance, the Ministry of Culture secured the funds for its renovation.

Surrounded by unique cypress trees
Recently, the municipality completed a renovation that had been in the works for years. When the Municipality of Brda was founded in 1995, the municipality only fixed the roof to prevent the building from deteriorating further. The surrounding park has also undergone a number of upgrades. It is mostly known for its giant cypress trees, which are said to be among the oldest in Europe. Some sources say they date back to the 12th century. They are the only such trees in Slovenia and the broader region.

Vipolže Villa was built during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It was first owned by the House of Gorizia and later by the Herbersteins, the Della Torres, the Attems and, finally, the Teuffenbachs. In the 16th and 17th century, the emperors and the Venetians fought over it. The latter managed to take it, and turned it into a Venetian Renaissance-style castle.

Used as a military hospital during WWI
The castle was converted into a military hospital during World War I, when a bomb caused heavy damage to the building. In 1948, the castle caught fire. It then lay derelict for a long time. After World War II, the renovated ballroom brought the castle back to life.

M. K.; translated by D. V.