The Franja Partisan Hospital, or Partizanska bolnica Franja in Slovenian, at Dolenji Novaki near Cerkno is a group of functionally-arranged partisan medical facilities. The beauty of the place is that it is located in the narrow, hardly accessible Pasice Gorge, which is a natural attraction itself.
The partisan hospital complex comprises 14 wooden constructions and several small secondary facilities. All the buildings were gradually set up in the difficult period from December 1943 to May 1945.
The hospital was among the best-equipped of hidden hospitals. It boasted an X-ray machine, an operating room, a care facility for the disabled, and even a small electric plant. Most of the equipment was well-preserved on-site until the ruining flood of 2007. The complex went through a complete renovation, which was finished in May 2010.
Franja has received a prestigious award presented by the Committee for European Heritage, the European Heritage Label, and is also included on a Tentative List of the candidates for a UNESCO World Heritage List. The site draws visitors interested in World Word II history, as we as those who love the harmonious blend of architecture and nature. A walk along the trail from the parking lot to the Pasice Gorge takes around 10 minutes. The trail winds along a stream, taking visitors across wooden bridges and stairs. Visitors can inform themselves with boards in Slovenian and English along the trail. For a better viewing experience, you can arrange a guided tour.
Today, the Franja Partisan Hospital is administered by Idrija Municipal Museum. Opening hours differ throughout the year. The best time to visit Franja is from April to September when it's open from 9 am to 6 pm. Moreover, if you visit the area in spring and summer, you can enjoy the richness of the flora and the fragrance of cyclamens. Throughout October, opening hours are from 9 am to 4 pm. In the low season from November to March, the site can be visited by appointment only.
Practical info
What facilities are present in the Franja Partisan Hospital?
Within its boundaries, the Franja Partisan Hospital had an X-ray machine, an operating room, a facility for disabled individuals, and even a small electric plant. Though much of the equipment was lost due to flooding in 2007, a comprehensive restoration was carried out, and it now welcomes visitors. It is hence one of the best-equipped covert health facilities and a testament to the resistance's resourcefulness and bravery. Show more
How long does it take to walk from the parking lot to the Pasice Gorge?
To reach the Pasice Gorge with the hospital's hidden quarters, visitors must walk along a picturesque trail that traverses a stream and goes across multiple bridges and staircases. The walk from the parking lot to the Pasice Gorge takes approximately ten minutes. When visiting, guests will appreciate the harmonious blend of natural surroundings and the site's architecture, especially during spring and summer when cyclamens exhibit their fragrant blooms. Show more
When is the best time to visit Franja Partisan Hospital?
The Franja Partisan Hospital is open for visitors from April to September, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to witness the beauty of the flora and aromatic cyclamens. Notably, the administration asks guests to make prior arrangements before visiting from November to March. The site's regular hours are between 9 am to 6 pm. As you organize your visit, keep in mind that timings may differ at different times of the year. Show more
What prestigious award has been presented to the Franja Partisan Hospital?
Recognized for its international significance, the Franja Partisan Hospital has been awarded the European Heritage Label by the Committee for European Heritage. It is also proposed for listing as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These accolades highlight the hospital's historic value, which must be preserved for future generations to appreciate. As such, it offers an exceptional experience that tourists and history lovers cannot afford to miss while in Slovenia. Show more
Who is in charge of administering the Franja Partisan Hospital?
The Idrija Municipal Museum oversees the administration of the Franja Partisan Hospital alongside other museums in the region. It manages the collection of hospital equipment and accompanying documents, and tickets must be purchased through the museum to visit the facility. Visitors can arrange to see the site during the November to March visiting season by contacting the museum. The museum's vigilance ensures that the facility remains open to visitors, allowing the public to learn about a remarkable feat of ingenuity and courage. Show more
