On the occasion of the 300th anniversary of the birth of Joannes Antonius Scopoli, the Slovenian Museum of Natural History presents an exhibition dedicated to the life and work of this exceptional naturalist. The exhibition will be on display from May 20 to June 13, 2025, at Bohinj House.

The opening will take place on May 28 at 5:00 PM, featuring a lecture by Špela Pungaršek, co-author of the exhibition and expert in the field of botany.

About the exhibition

The exhibition presents the life and work of Joannes Antonius Scopoli, who spent 15 of his most productive years in Idrija. During this period, he focused on researching nature, particularly plants, fungi, and animals, documenting them in a manner that remains scientifically relevant today.

Scopoli was the first to scientifically describe and name plants, fungi, and animals in the Slovenian territory. His work introduced the natural heritage of Carniola to the global scientific community and attracted numerous researchers to the region. He also inspired local intellectuals who continued his efforts and eventually established the Provincial Museum for Carniola.

The exhibition also includes the publication Scopoli, Carniolan Nature and the Birth of Modern Natural Science in Slovenia, featuring rich photographic material from numerous nature photographers. The publication is available in the online store of the Slovenian Museum of Natural History.

About the speaker

Špela Pungaršek, a biologist with a university degree, is the head of the Alpine Botanical Garden Juliana and the Botany Department at the Slovenian Museum of Natural History. She has also worked with the Triglav National Park.

Privately, she is a dedicated nature enthusiast, especially passionate about plants and mountains. She enjoys various sports and reading. She is currently working on her doctoral thesis on plants at the University of Innsbruck.

Špela Pungaršek is the co-author of the exhibition about Joannes Antonius Scopoli, where she presents his work and its impact on the development of natural science in Slovenia.

Free admission!