Water-soaked soil creates unique natural conditions. These made it possible for the Ljubljansko barje to develop a mix of colourful meadows, grasslands and fields, surrounded by green hedgerows and thick bushes. The above allowed many rare and endangered species to also find their home in the local area. But the Ljubljansko barje does not only hide nature’s treasures! Having also preserved many objects from the past in its embrace, the soaked soil has made the area to be recognised as an important archaeological site as well.
Due to its uniqueness, the founding of a “Ljubljansko barje conservation park” was already called for as early as more than 100 years ago. Gradually, smaller parts of the Ljubljansko barje became subject to protection. In 2004, the entire area was included in the Natura 2000 network of European protected natural sites, and, in 2008, the Ljubljansko barje Nature Park was established.
You are now on the edge of Goričica, one of the 15 “islands” rising above the Ljubljansko barje plain. Traces of prehistoric settlement were discovered on its slopes, including remains of pottery and tools, as well as large amounts of iron ore smelting remains.
The Goriški mah, a remnant of the raised bog that you can see in the distance, was protected as a natural value as early as in 1976. Today it is partly covered with forest.
The Ljubljansko barje Nature Park covers an area of 135.05 km2. The area is divided into 3 protection zones, and even stricter protection rules apply to some smaller areas. The entire Ljubljansko barje is also recognised as an important archaeological site.
Water annoys, water nourishes
The Ljubljansko barje is the largest flood zone in Slovenia. Annual floods cover less than a fifth of its surface, whereas extreme, major floods cover more than half thereof. High waters overflow the banks several times a year, especially in autumn and winter. During this time, the deep bog soil acting like a sponge holds the water which then slowly drains away.
The area is fed by waters that flow from the Notranjska hinterland and the Polhov Gradec and Krim Hill Ranges. Its main vein is the Ljubljanica River whose minimal drop on an almost flat surface has led to a very slow flow rate. During heavy rainfall, it is quickly dammed by its tributaries, its water level rises and the river overflows its banks.
There is considerably less water in the Ljubljansko barje today than it used to be. Nevertheless, it continues to significantly shape the image of the landscape and life in it. You will need boots to visit the Mah Trail several times a year, and sometimes even flippers would be useful.