Šempeter in the Savinja Valley is a place where natural geography, rich history, and cultural heritage intertwine into an exceptional whole. It lies in the heart of the fertile Savinja Valley, at the crossroads of important transport routes that have, over the centuries, decisively shaped its development and significance. Today, the town is known worldwide primarily for its Roman Necropolis, one of the best‑preserved monuments of the Roman era in Central Europe. The monumental marble tombs, which belonged to wealthy families from ancient Celeia, testify to the high level of artistic skill, social status, and cultural sophistication of the Roman population in this region.
In addition to its archaeological treasures, Šempeter is also an excellent starting point for exploring natural attractions. Just four kilometres from the settlement lies Pekel Cave, one of the most picturesque karst caves in Slovenia, known for its dual character—an upper dry section and a lower water‑filled section—and for its dramatic entrance, reminiscent of gaping infernal jaws. Thanks to its proximity and easy accessibility, the cave is a popular destination for hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts.
During the Middle Ages, Šempeter held a strategic role as an important stop along the trade and travel route between Vienna and Trieste. This position brought the town a lively pulse, the development of crafts, and contact with various cultures and influences. Remains of medieval structures, old paths, and written records reveal that the settlement was a key junction on the north–south transport corridor.
The Savinja Valley is known not only for its history but also for its strong economic identity. The area around Šempeter is deeply rooted in the tradition of hop‑growing, which has been present in the region for more than a century. Hop fields—often referred to as “green gold”—surround the settlement and create a distinctive cultural landscape. Hops represent a vital raw material for the brewing industry, which has gained international recognition in the Savinja Valley, bringing economic stability to local communities and shaping customs associated with seasonal work in the hop fields.