As part of the Week of Discovering European Cemeteries 2025, Slovenian cemeteries showcased sustainable practices that turn memorial spaces into living gardens of peace and reflection.
About the initiative
In cooperation between the Chamber of Public Utilities of Slovenia (ZKGS) and the Association of Significant Cemeteries in Europe (ASCE), various cemeteries in Slovenia have responded to the invitation to participate in this year's Week of Discovering European Cemeteries, which was held under the common theme "Gardens of 80", commemorating 80 years of peace since the end of World War II and contributing to the goal 16 of the UN 2030 agenda.
The following section summarizes selected activities organized by participating cities across the country.
Maribor
As part of WDEC 2025, the company Pogrebno podjetje Maribor, presiding member of ASCE, organized a series of events at Pobrežje Cemetery in Maribor. The program featured a flower bed exhibition with 80 sustainable plants symbolizing decades of peace, as well as a display of eight sustainably arranged model graves at the cemetery entrance, also part of the European initiative Meetings in the Gardens 2025.
A special cultural event with renowned writer, playwright, and storyteller Tone Partljič highlighted cemeteries as places of stories and memory. His engaging lecture and guided tour of Pobrežje Cemetery offered a unique perspective on history, heritage, and remembrance. Furthermore, schoolchildren explored history in an interactive way through a guided educational day.
Ljubljana
The company ŽALE Javno podjetje, d. o. o. prepared two model grave plantings at Žale Cemetery in Ljubljana, using drought-resistant plants that require less maintenance and water. In addition, one grave was specially designed in line with this year’s theme, Gardens of 80.
These installations reflect ŽALE’s commitment to sustainable cemetery management and the promotion of environmentally responsible practices. Through such efforts, ŽALE contributes to raising awareness of the ecological potential of cemeteries and their role in supporting peace, remembrance, and cultural heritage.
Domžale, Mengeš, Moravče
The company JKP-Prodnik carried out model grave plantings at the cemeteries in Domžale, Mengeš, and Moravče, using resilient perennials such as bergenia, rose, and heuchera. These plantings not only enhanced the visual appeal of the cemeteries but also supported water conservation and easier maintenance, serving as an example of good practice in sustainable cemetery management.
In addition, they emphasized that cemeteries are not only places of mourning and remembrance, but also play an important role in preserving cultural heritage. With thoughtful landscaping and green design, cemeteries can become attractive public spaces for visitors while promoting environmentally responsible practices.
Tržič
In Tržič, the company Podjetje Komunala Tržič d.o.o. undertook a comprehensive redesign of the ash scattering area at Kovor Cemetery. Aging cypress trees were replaced with 40 evergreens chosen for their disease resistance and neat appearance. Additionally, 20 roses were planted to provide continuous bloom and rich forage for bees throughout the season without the need for chemical treatment.
The existing grassy surface was replaced with turf, and an automated irrigation system was installed in the cemetery park area. All these measures contribute not only to the visual appeal of the cemetery but will also improve the ability to preserve greenery in the cemetery in a more controlled, efficient, and sustainable way.
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Murska Sobota
At Murska Sobota Cemetery, the company Komunala, javno podjetje, d.o.o. Murska Sobota planted nine trees to green the area, provide shade, and support a more sustainable and welcoming environment. Species such as hornbeam, ginkgo, and Japanese cherry were carefully chosen for their resilience, with mulching and watering basins installed to aid their growth.
Additionally, a historic grave dating back to 1921 was restored using resilient, sun-tolerant plants already on site. These plants were carefully cleaned, trimmed, and preserved, while the surrounding surface was covered with a layer of fine mulch to help retain moisture. This low-maintenance planting promotes biodiversity, providing a welcoming refuge for small animals, insects, and other wildlife.
Idrija
At Idrija Cemetery, the company Javno podjetje Komunala Idrija d.o.o. carried out the replanting of six graves of soldiers who fell during World War II. These graves are located along the pedestrian path leading to the cemetery entrance, making them a visible and respectful reminder of the area's wartime history.
The graves were replanted with drought-resistant perennials, and the thoughtful landscaping contributes not only to the visual dignity of the site but also to its role as a place of remembrance and local heritage.
Kranj
At the city cemetery in Kranj, the company Komunala Kranj d.o.o. created a model grave planting using low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants such as Campanula carpatica, Scaevola, and Dorotheanthus. The image below shows the condition of the grave before and after the redesign.
With this pilot project, the company aims to demonstrate how small, thoughtful choices in grave design can contribute to a more sustainable cemetery environment and to inspire visitors and families to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
