At the Sežana College of Materials Design (VSOM), we believe that knowledge is best developed through hands-on experience. One of the most notable results of this approach is undoubtedly the stone model of Štanjel—the first model of its kind in Slovenia.
How was the stone model of Štanjel created?
The project began in 2021 at the initiative of the Municipality of Komen, which wanted to give visitors a better spatial understanding of the settlement of Štanjel. The project was carried out in collaboration with Inkubator Sežana, Sežana Education and Development Center, and Sežana Higher Vocational College.
Students and mentors first created a cardboard model, and then, under the guidance of experts, designed a scale model made of Karst stone. This model follows surveying data and respects the basic dimensions of the settlement.
Two tons of tradition, expertise, and creativity
The model weighs nearly two tons and stands today in the center of Štanjel. In addition to its navigational function, it is also an important symbol of craftsmanship heritage, technical precision, and the creativity of future generations of material designers.
The following individuals collaborated on the project:
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Authors: Anton Marn and Špela Šedivy
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Contributors: Sibila Leskovec, Nina Prunk, Tina Petrič, Luka Prunk, Martin Kandido, Žiga Dobrovoljc, Jakob Škrbec
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Sponsors and donors: Vahta d.o.o., Pirnat d.o.o., Komunala Sežana d.d., Municipality of Komen
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Photo: Visit Štanjel
Integrating Studies with the Local Community
The Štanjel stone model project is a fine example of how VSOM integrates knowledge with the real-world challenges of the local community. By using modern and traditional techniques and actively involving students in all phases of the work, projects of lasting value are created.
