An exhibition prepared by the Slovenian Museum of Natural History to mark the 300th anniversary of the birth of polymath Joannes Antonius Scopoli will be on display at the Bohinj House (Mencingerjeva ulica 4, Bohinjska Bistrica) from 20 May to 13 June 2025.

Exhibition opening hours:

• - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8:00–15:00
• - Wednesday: 8:00–17:00
• - Friday: 8:00–13:00
• - Saturday, 31 May 2025: 17:00–19:00

About the Exhibition

The exhibition presents the life and work of Joannes Antonius Scopoli (1723–1788), a tireless naturalist who spent 15 of his most productive years in Idrija.

Scopoli was not only a taxonomist and systematist – he learned from the Carniolan people and sought to give back through science and practical knowledge.

Initially captivated by the natural beauty of Idrija, he soon began documenting organisms found in the Idrija mercury mine. His curiosity and scientific zeal led him to explore the wider region of Carniola and Gorizia, where he gathered, observed and described countless plants, fungi, and animals.

Scopoli – Scientist and Ambassador of Carniolan Nature

Scopoli was the first to scientifically describe and name fungi, plants, and animals on the territory of present-day Slovenia in a manner still accepted in modern science.

He introduced Carniolan species to the global scientific community, becoming a true ambassador of local biodiversity.

His work attracted other researchers to the region and inspired local Enlightenment thinkers, who soon founded the Carniolan Provincial Museum.

The respect he earned is evident in the species named in his honour by Europe’s leading taxonomists. His descriptions still hold significant conservation value, offering insights into Slovenia’s nature as it existed 250 years ago.

Lecture alongside the exhibition

• - 28 May 2025
• - At the exhibition venue – Bohinj House

Lecture: Joannes Antonius Scopoli, a Remarkable Herald of Natural Science in Slovenia

Join us to discover more about the life, work and lasting legacy of this pioneering naturalist.

Accompanying Publication

A publication titled
Scopoli, Carniolan Nature and the Birth of Modern Natural Sciences in Slovenia
has been released alongside the exhibition. It features rich visual material by renowned Slovenian nature photographers.

Available in the online shop of the Slovenian Museum of Natural History.