This town of around 13,000 was established only in 1947, after World War II, when a border was established between neighboring Gorizia in Italy and its outlying districts, which were ceded to Yugoslavia. And it´s developed into a vibrant modern city which nonetheless retains a number of historic landmarks well worth a visit. They include the Renaissance Kromberk Castle, with richly adorned interiors and home to the Goriška Museum, of regional history and culture; the early-17th-century Franciscan Kostanjevica Monastery, which among other things houses a beautiful library and the tomb of the last Bourbon king of France. And of course one of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Europe Square (Trg Evrope), a symbolic space that connects Slovenia and Italy, representing cross-border unity. You can also explore the area's rich history and culture at the Nova Gorica Regional Museum.As for bars and restaurants, apart from a thriving local scene, the modern Park Casino & Hotel is a major hub. And finally, nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Triglav National Park or the Vipava Valley, renowned for its scenic vineyards and wine-tasting tours. The city’s close proximity to the Julian Alps also makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures like hiking and rafting.
Go! 2025
The joint ECOC program with Gorizia, entitled "GO! Borderless," aims to transcend physical and cultural boundaries, fostering unity and collaboration across borders, with more than 400 events throughout the year, including exhibitions, concerts and other performances, and workshops, especially centered on the ECoC District, a revitalized area along the former border.
Key themes include War and Peace, which delves into the region's complex history, reflecting on the impacts of conflict and the journey towards harmony, and among its notable projects are the EPIC (European Platform for Interpretation of the 20th Century), a participatory space dedicated to understanding 20th-century history, and the "Mušič – Landscapes of the Body" exhibition, exploring the works of artist Zoran Mušič.The Creation of the New focuses on innovation and forward-thinking, this theme features projects like Dodecalogy 1972–1983, a documentary exploring Nova Gorica's connections with other European cities, and the Biennale of Young Artists from Europe and the Mediterranean, showcasing emerging talents. Smugglers highlights the region's historical narratives of clandestine trade and cultural exchange, with experiences such as exploring smuggler trails that traverse the border, offering insights into the area's past. And Very Green emphasizes sustainability and environmental consciousness, with initiatives promoting eco-friendly practices and the celebration of the region's natural beauty. Several highlights include the March for Europe (May 1–9), a cross-border event transforming former checkpoints into art installations, celebrating unity and the European spirit; Tastes without Borders (September 26–28), a culinary festival offering a feast of gourmet delights, highlighting the region's rich gastronomic traditions; and a a spectacular closing ceremony (December 1–3) featuring light installations illuminating both cities, symbolizing a bright, unified future.
Read more in my post European Capitals of Culture 2025: Chemnitz, Gorizia, and Nova Gorica.
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