University of Primorska
Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies
We invite you to join us for the nature workshop “Karst – A Mosaic of Life”, organised as part of the GOmini project. The workshop is organised by the University of Primorska with the operational support of the Estplore guides.
Important information:
- 📅 Date: Saturday, 24 October 2026
- 🕓Time: from 09:30 to 11:30
- 📍Location: Karst grassland on Monte Stena in the Rosandra Valley, Italy
- 👨👨👧👧 Target group: families with children aged 6 and above
The workshop will be held in Slovene and Italian. Participation is free of charge, but the number of places is limited, so prior registration through the online form is required: https://forms.gle/QhpTr779oZWYXBmEA
Karst grassland is a unique habitat shaped by the sun, the Bora wind, rocky soils and a long history of coexistence between people and nature. Although it may appear barren at first glance, it supports remarkable biodiversity.
During the nature walk, we will explore how Karst grassland developed, how it has changed over time and how human activities have influenced it. We will learn why traditional land use, grazing and the maintenance of open areas are important for many species, and what happens when these habitats begin to become overgrown or their use changes.
We will pay particular attention to the most numerous inhabitants of Karst grassland – insects. With the help of an expert entomologist, we will search for and observe different species and learn about their role in the ecosystem. Insects are important pollinators, form part of food webs and are also excellent indicators of environmental conditions.
During our exploration, we will also use digital microscopes, which will allow us to observe tiny organisms and interesting details of insects, plants, soil and other natural materials that often go unnoticed by the naked eye.
Through exploration, we will discover that the present-day appearance of the Karst is not only the result of natural processes, but also of long-term human influence. Maintaining a diverse mosaic of grasslands, shrublands and rocky areas is therefore important for many plant and animal species.
As the workshop will take place outdoors, we recommend layered clothing suitable for the season, protection from wind and rain, and appropriate hiking footwear.
The invitation and detailed programme are attached.
You are warmly invited!
About the project:
The project GOmini – Hidden Natural Heritage of the Cross-Border Area for Young Generations promotes the exploration of less noticeable habitats and raises awareness of the importance of biodiversity through the involvement of children and local communities. Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia 2021-2027 is a European cross-border cooperation programme. By funding cooperation projects between Italian and Slovenian partners, the Programme enriches the cross-border area through joint activities and financial support aimed at improving the quality of life of the population, while also protecting and promoting natural and cultural heritage.
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