The name of the town was first mentioned in 1091. The town developed between Mount Uršlja gora and the western Pohorje mountain range at the confluence of the rivers Mislinja and Suhodolnica. Its history is rich and linked with the history of Stari trg where the Roman settlement of Colatio was built.

Slovenj Gradec was founded by the Counts of Andechs and it then experienced turbulent centuries passing from one owner to another while its crafts and commerce flourished. With the granting of city rights, Slovenj Gradec acquired walls, fair privileges, a court, and its own mint. Commerce and crafts were joined by the arts. The current Slovenj Gradec continues the tradition of the past; numerous exhibitions and events have brought international fame, and in 1989 the town was given the honorary title of Peace Messenger City.

Slovenj Gradec – Old City Core

The old city core of Slovenj Gradec has preserved its original outline, which today makes it an important monument of city planning. Of special interest are the former City Hall housing the Koroška Art Gallery and the Koroška Regional Museum, the Church of Sv. Elizabeta from 1251, the birth house of the composer Hugo Wolf, Rotenturn Manor, the Soklič Museum, and the Church of Sv. Duh.

Points of distinction: Where it has retained its original plan, the old town core is a significant urban monument. In the Middle Ages, the old city was walled and traces of the wall can still be seen along Meškova, Ozka, and Cankarjeva streets. The renovated Rotenturn Mansion sprang from the former Schulthausezinger Tower. The town lies at the junction of several roads between Mount Uršlja gora and the Pohorje mountain range that offer travellers to the area unspoiled nature and numerous mysteries worth discovering.

Famous citizens: Karel Pečko, painter; Jože Tisnikar, painter; Franc Berneker, sculptor; Hugo Wolf, composer