Open

Photo: Ciril Mlinar Cic

 

From May 1st to September 30th,
each day from 8.30 to18.30 hrs.

The gardeners

When we speak of the Garden, two names necessarily come to mind: Anton Tožbar and Ančka Kavs. Both are closely connected to the Garden’s history.

Many probably still remember the quiet, modest, little woman who tirelessly cared for the flower beds, watered the plants, enthusiastically told the visitors about her favourites, and pointed out hidden treasures. Ančka Kavs was born on December 28, 1907, at Vrsnik into a large family. She was glad to accept Bois de Chesne’s offer when he needed a gardener in Juliana. She died on March 6, 2000.

Who has not heard of the " Death-of-a Bear", of Anton Tožbar-Špik, Kugy’s guide? His son was Albert Bois de Chesne’s game keeper and his grandson a gardener in Juliana. He was born on May 29, 1905, in Trenta. Juliana grew on his soil, and he was therefor closely connected to it all his life, not only professionally but also emotionally. He walked the mountains, dug plants, and carefully carried them into the valley. He remained faithful to the Juliana Garden after the Second World War; even when retired he was glad to help by working and advising. He died in Trenta on February 3, 1993

The work of the first two gardeners was continued by Tožbar’s daughter Marija and her husband Jože Završnik (April 24, 1946 - November 3, 2005) and now their youngest son, Klemen, are following the family tradition.

  • Ancka Kavs, Anton Tožbar and his daughter Marija, married Završnik, in the 1950's. Photo T. Wraber
    Ancka Kavs, Anton Tožbar and his daughter Marija, married Završnik, in the 1950's. Photo T. Wraber
  • In the garden in 1969. From left: Ancka Kavs, Jože Završnik, Marija Završnik, Katja Toplak, Tone Wraber, Tone Tožbar and Cveta Zupancic. Photo: M. Lovka
    In the garden in 1969. From left: Ancka Kavs, Jože Završnik, Marija Završnik, Katja Toplak, Tone Wraber, Tone Tožbar and Cveta Zupancic. Photo: M. Lovka