Mountaineering is not only a free time activity limited to a natural, mountainous region. It is much more than that; it is an important part of the Slovenian culture, with its own system of rules and regulations. Its patterns of flexibility and behaviour co-shape the individual and wider social attitude towards nature, our fellow human beings and home country.
The fact that mountaineering is more than just a recreational activity is also testified to by the manner in which it is presented and expressed in Slovene society. Mountaineering missions and accomplishments are described and documented in a vast array of means of expression, be it the physical markings of summits, mountaineering literature, photography, film etc... Mountaineering knows its own symbols and myths, which are typified by concrete objects, spaces, people and events and which are assigned a greater and deeper meaning. People can easily identify them and pledge allegiance to them through a range of rituals, such as baptism on top of Mount Triglav, the openings of cabins, mass expeditions and the like. Mountaineering is closely linked with the strengthening of the national consciousness and national identity. As long as can be remembered, rivalry with the German speaking societies for primacy over the mountain world has, through the conquering, marking and naming of summits, shaped and strengthened “Sloveneness” and the country’s position among other European nations. The central personality of the fight for national identity is certainly Jakob Aljaž; his ownership of the summit of our highest mountain Triglav, practically as well as symbolically, has forever inscribed this mountain into the consciousness of every Slovenian.
The Maribor Matica Alpine Society Maribor has for more than 90 years co-shaped and enriched Maribor cultural life. By organising photography competitions and exhibitions of the awarded works of art along the Maribor City Park promenade, where the Kozjak hiking trail begins, we wanted to emphasise that mountaineering does not only happen high in the mountains, but that hiking begins and is very present also in the valley. It is not simply an isolated phenomenon that belongs to nature alone, but it is also a part of the urban environment, which is nicely illustrated by the theme of the competition, entitled “Bring a Piece of Sky with You into the Valley”.
Open Air Exhibition is accessible 24 hous a day, every day of the week.