Tourist shops and stalls countrywide: Get the buzz with painted panels from bee hives
One of the more curious customs that has developed in Slovenia is the decoration of beehives. Decoration usually takes the form of painted panels on the front of the hive and you will find reproductions of the more famous panels on sale across Slovenia, which make interesting and original souvenirs.The subject matter is fascinating and reflects the priorities, beliefs and prejudices of the community in which the panels were painted, as well as some historical events. One of my favourites include a hunting scene where the wild animals (deer, boar, bears and the like) have turned the tables on the hunter and are carrying him off, suspended by his hands and feet from a carrying pole. There is a strong mysogynistic theme to many of the panels which suggest that the artists were men - and unhappy men at that! The scene where the gossipy woman is having her tongue sharpened on a knife...
