Charcoal burning in Kočevsko has a long tradition and holds an important place in the region’s cultural heritage. For centuries, this practice provided a livelihood for many families, as charcoal production played a crucial role in the development of ironworks, glassmaking, and other industries that required high-quality fuel. The dense forests of Kočevsko, rich in high-quality wood, made the area ideal for charcoal production.
At this year’s Kočevsko Outdoor Festival 2025, charcoal will be a central theme throughout the event. From Friday to Sunday, visitors will have the opportunity to explore this ancient craft through sports, gastronomy, and tradition.
On Friday, the winner of the vertical run to Fridrihštajn will symbolically light a charcoal kiln, which will be set up in the MTB center in Kočevje, where the vertical run starts and race numbers will be distributed.
On Saturday, charcoal will play a key role in culinary experiences, where visitors can taste dishes prepared on charcoal or infused with its essence, while also learning about its significance in local traditions.
The Charcoal Burning Process
Charcoal burners used special techniques to construct wooden kilns, where wood was slowly and carefully burned to transform it into charcoal. This process required great precision and the constant presence of the charcoal burner, who had to monitor the fire to prevent excessive burning and wood loss. The practice was largely seasonal, demanding physical endurance and technical expertise.
Social and Cultural Significance
Charcoal burning greatly influenced the lives of the people in Kočevsko, not only as an economic activity but also as a cultural practice. Charcoal burners developed specific rituals and skills, which were passed down from generation to generation. This tradition was deeply connected to life in harmony with nature, shaping the character of the local population.
Charcoal Burning Today
Although charcoal burning no longer holds the economic importance it once did, its cultural and historical value remains strong. Enthusiasts and local communities keep the tradition alive by organizing events, demonstrations, and promoting it as a part of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. These events help preserve the memory of an important economic and cultural activity from the past while increasing awareness of Kočevsko’s rich history.
The Economics of Charcoal Burning
Charcoal production is still a profitable activity, but modern charcoal burners often integrate it into tourism experiences, which enhances its value and attractiveness.
Historical Perspective
- Wood for charcoal: In Kočevsko, beech wood was primarily used, as it produces high-quality charcoal suitable for both industry and household use (hazelwood was considered the best for charcoal production). Due to the vast beech forests, the region was ideal for charcoal burning.
Social and Economic Impact
- Charcoal burning was not just an individual trade but an entire way of life. Families lived next to charcoal kilns, forming temporary settlements in the forests, where they stayed for months until the process was completed.
- Charcoal burners often lived in harsh conditions and faced dangers such as forest fires, prolonged exposure to smoke, and isolation.
- The practice connected communities, fostering close cooperation between charcoal burners, wood transporters, and miners.
Charcoal Burning in the 20th Century
- With technological advancements and the development of new fuels (such as coal and later oil), charcoal burning gradually lost its economic significance.
- By the mid-20th century, charcoal burning in Kočevsko had almost completely disappeared, except for rare local needs.
Interesting Facts
- A fascinating aspect is the demonstration of charcoal production and the construction of charcoal kilns, which attract visitors eager to experience life as it was in the past.
- Charcoal burners had their own unique vocabulary and expressions. For example, the term “kopati” did not mean digging, but rather constructing a charcoal kiln.
- Despite the hard work, many charcoal burners saw their job as a form of freedom, as they were often their own bosses.
See You from Friday to Sunday in Kočevsko!
This year, in addition to the running events, you can enjoy a variety of activities and traditional charcoal-burning demonstrations—a great experience for both adults and children.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure, where past meets present in the heart of Slovenia’s mysterious forests!
