The Municipality of Šempeter-Vrtojba

The municipality of Šempeter-Vrtojba was established in 1998. It is made up of two settlements, Šempeter pri Gorici and Vrtojba. It lies in Western Slovenia on the border with Italy, and south of Nova Gorica, which is the administrative, economic and cultural centre of the Goriška region, also known as the North Littoral (Primorska) Region.

The municipality, with a surface area of only 15 km2 , is one of the smallest and ranks 204th in Slovenia. However, with approximately 6,300 inhabitants it is placed among the larger municipalities. It has strong economic indicators, a high percentage of well-educated residents, a high standard of living as well as a high expenditure for conservation and sustainable energy.

From an economic perspective, the local region is very interesting. Its position in the broader Goriška region provides excellent conditions for the economy’s development; this is proven by its well-developed industry. Due to their innovation, globalization and excellence, many of the companies here rank as some of the world's leading companies. The predominant economic sectors are logistics, transportation and shops, as well as local independent businesses dealing with transportation, and the metal and construction industries.

Its attractive location in the area of the former international border crossing of Vrtojba places the municipality into the area of the 5th Pan-European corridor and provides it with development opportunities on a local, regional and national level. In addition, even the public areas themselves provide a vision of strategic development in terms of logistics, tourism and other economic activities.

The position of the municipality not only allows daily contact between Slovenes from both sides of the border, but also with Italians and Friulians (an Italian minority). The wealth of connections and mutual collaboration can be seen in a substantially lively exchange of cultural and material goods.


The area is also interesting as regards landscape and climate. The Mediterranean climate, from the west and the sea, has a positive effect on agricultural produce. An excellent soil composition and mild climate offer the best conditions for viticulture, fruit farming, horticulture, greengrocery and floristry.


The Vrtojba-Bilje knolls, which rise from 50 to 70m.a.s.l., are covered with flysh soil, also know as permeable marl soil, which has one of the best compositions for vineyards. Therefore, here, among cherry, peach and other fruit orchards it is of no surprise to find the largest and most picturesque vineyard in Slovenia, which covers an area of 240 ha.

On the tourist side of things, our area offers many cultural sights. For example, the Coronini Manor, where the the town hall has its offices, the Maffei manor-house, churches and old wells. For recreational activities you can choose from cycling, hiking across the hills (with a sea view) and organised jogging paths.