Ivan Cankar came to visit

Ivan Cankar, the renowned Slovenian writer, visited the home of Ignacij Borštnik in Cerklje, according to local reports. The visit took place during a cultural event celebrating Borštnik’s birthday, which was marked with open house days organized by the Cultural Society Ignacija Borštnika. The gathering drew attendees from various parts of Gornja Štura, including towns such as Vrhnik, where actor Damijan Debevec, who portrays Cankar in performances, hails from. Born on July 1, 1858, Ignacij Borštnik lived until he was 61 years old. His residence in Cerklje has long been a venue for cultural gatherings, hosting events that reflect the town's rich heritage. This time, the event attracted notable figures, among them Ivan Cankar himself. Debevec, who leads the Cankar Memorial House in Vrhnik, is known for his distinctive appearance, his beard and hat make him a familiar sight in the region, often greeted with coffee by locals. The event featured a performance by Debevec, who brought Cankar to life through his acting. Attendees were captivated by the portrayal of two significant contemporaries of the era. The meeting between Borštnik and Cankar was rare, as Borštnik’s roles in Cankar’s plays were limited. However, the connection between the two men dates back to Cankar’s early career, with the first mention of the older actor occurring during Cankar’s youth. The event included a toast over coffee, a tradition that accompanied Cankar’s visits. Attendees gathered around a table, sharing stories and reflecting on the legacy of one of Slovenia’s most celebrated writers. Dane Novak, representing Borštnik’s family, welcomed guests at the home. The event was attended by numerous visitors from different areas of Gornja Štura. After the performance, all present shared a cup of coffee, a gesture that symbolized the enduring respect for Cankar’s contributions to Slovenian literature. Debevec also introduced a book titled Slovenski gledališki čas Cankarjeve dobe by Dušan Muravč, offering insights into the theatrical landscape of Cankar’s time. During the visit, visitors had the opportunity to explore the well-maintained blacksmith shop adjacent to Borštnik’s home. The space, carefully arranged, showcased the craftsmanship of past generations. Discussions with Professor Jože Jerič, a scholar of Cankar’s work, added depth to the evening’s proceedings. Visitors engaged in conversations that highlighted the lasting influence of both Borštnik and Cankar on Slovenian culture. The doors of Borštnik’s home were once again opened to the public, welcoming those interested in history and literature. The event served as a celebration of cultural continuity, bridging the past and present through shared experiences and storytelling. As the evening concluded, the atmosphere remained warm and reflective, underscoring the significance of preserving historical connections in contemporary society.