Slovenia is a country to the east of the continent of Europe. It is bordered by four countries: Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, and Croatia to the south and southeast. In the southwest Slovenia has a short coastline on the Adriatic Sea.

Over half of Slovenia is covered by forests. This makes Slovenia the third most forested country in Europe. The country is also very mountainous. Parts of the Alps mountains stretch across northern Slovenia. Because of its landscape, many people in the country are keen skiers and hikers. Animals found in Slovenia include European brown bears, wolves, lynx, and wild boars.

The country, like many in Eastern Europe, has struggled, been fought over, taken over, and suffered under cruel leadership for many years. Thankfully, in recent years there has been greater fairness, peace and prosperity in Slovenia.

Slovenia’s people are called Slovenes. Their language is also called Slovene. Most Slovenes are Roman Catholics. Small groups of Serbs, Croats, Bosniaks (Muslims), Roma (Gypsies), and others also live in Slovenia.

Sadly in the past differences between these groups of people have caused difficulties, but there are many in the country who work hard to build peace and bring people together. Amongst those who have done so are the children who belong to Mission Together groups. Listen to the children sing their mission hymn, about sharing the love and mercy of God with all.