Piran is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Slovenia with rich history and culture, where you will find architectural and artistic pearls on every corner. Almost 500 years of Venetian influence has given it a special charm. Discover the medieval town at the end of the peninsula, adorned by timeless sensational romance. A deep-rooted tradition of salt panning merges with countless stories of the narrow town streets and the picturesque sights of the Slovenian Mediterranean.
Sečovlje Salina Nature Park
Less than 10km from Piran you can visit Sečovlje Salina Nature Park, one of the few still functioning traditional salt flats in the Mediterranean with unique mix of flora and fauna. The salt production in the area was at its height between 15th and 18th centuries, when Venetians controlled the area. During the Austrian times its role in local economy was slowly diminishing, until the decision was taken to turn it into a natural park. Sečovlje salt pans are interesting in all seasons.
The reserve is the biggest wetland on the coastline. In its northern part, Lera, they still harvest salt to this very day, using the most traditional methods that haven’t changed much in past centuries. They use old classical methods and wooden tools, which is the reason why Piran salt has retained its special taste and exceptional characteristics. Work goes on at the pans all year round, but June through to September are far away the most interesting times, which is when crystallised salt gets collected from the salt pans.
Fontanigge, in the south, is quite different, as the abandonment of salt production created some unusual ecological conditions, allowing a number of rare species to thrive there. It features many unique sights – birds, plants and over 100 abandoned and demolished buildings that were once used by workers in the salt industry.
