📖 About Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto, Slovenia's seventh largest city, has a municipality population of 37,300 (22,415 within the city proper). The city is home to major employers including Krka pharmaceuticals, Revoz automotive (Renault), Adria Mobil, and TPV. An impressive 70% of the working-age population is employed—above the national average of 69%. Monthly earnings in Novo Mesto are 16% higher than the national average, reflecting the city's economic prosperity. Sustainable living and eco-friendly initiatives are increasingly shaping the city's development priorities.

The Krka River bends dramatically around the Old Town peninsula, creating a picturesque natural setting. Novo Mesto's Main Square (Glavni trg) is Slovenia's largest medieval square, recently renovated and made motor traffic-free to enhance pedestrian life. The Franciscan monastery library, dating from the late 15th century with 22,000 books, is the oldest library in Novo Mesto. Otočec Castle, situated on an island in the Krka River, holds the distinction of being Slovenia's only "water castle," offering a fairy-tale setting for visitors and events.

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💼 Economy & Culture

The pharmaceutical giant Krka is Novo Mesto's largest employer, producing medications distributed worldwide. The Revoz automotive plant assembles Renault vehicles, anchoring the manufacturing sector. Tourism is growing, centered on castle hotels, river-based activities, and wine tourism. The Museum of Dolenjska preserves important archaeological treasures, including decorated situlae (bronze vessels) from the Hallstatt period. The surrounding Dolenjska wine region produces excellent Cviček, a unique light red wine. Traditional crafts including pottery and woodworking are maintained by local artisans. The city draws students from across the Dolenjska region, supporting educational services and youth culture.

📜 History

Novo Mesto was founded in 1365 by Habsburg Duke Rudolf IV, who recognized the strategic importance of this Krka River crossing. The medieval town prospered through trade and craftwork, protected by walls and towers. Ottoman raids threatened the region during the 15th and 16th centuries but were successfully repelled. The devastating plague of 1664 decimated the population, causing severe hardship. Franciscan friars arrived in 1472, establishing their monastery and school. The arrival of the railway in the 19th century brought modernization and economic growth. During World War II, Novo Mesto was a center of partisan resistance against Nazi and Italian occupation. Socialist-era industrialization saw Krka pharmaceuticals expand dramatically, transforming Novo Mesto into an industrial center. Following Slovenian independence in 1991, the city successfully modernized its economy, becoming a hub for pharmaceuticals and automotive manufacturing while developing its tourism sector.